Google’s latest ChromeOS update, version 128, introduces several new functionalities aimed at enhancing productivity and accessibility on Chromebooks. Key updates include streamlined app organization, text extraction from images, and improved camera and microphone management.
One of the standout additions is Snap Groups, which mirrors Windows 11’s Snap layouts. This feature lets users organize apps into various fullscreen configurations with ease. It operates similarly to Windows’ Snap layouts, activating when you hover over the maximize button of an app.
The update also enhances the ChromeOS camera app with Optical Character Recognition (OCR). This allows users to extract and manipulate text from images, making it easier to convert documents into searchable PDFs, copy text, or utilize the built-in screen reader for image-based text. Google’s OCR supports text in 77 languages and recognizes both horizontal and vertical text. This feature is off by default in photo mode.
Another improvement is the integration of the Magnifier tool with ChromeVox. This allows the screen magnifier to track and highlight text as it is read aloud, which is particularly beneficial for visually impaired users. By default, this feature is turned off and requires both Magnifier and ChromeVox to be activated in the settings.
Camera and microphone management has also been streamlined. Previously, users needed to adjust privacy settings and app permissions in multiple locations. Now, Google has consolidated these controls into the apps section of the ChromeOS settings menu. Additionally, a new Auto Gain Control (AGC) feature optimizes microphone volume for better audio quality during calls. Users will be alerted in the quick settings panel when AGC is in effect, overriding manual audio settings.