ChromeOS 128 Update: Snap groups, camera OCR, enhanced audio, and more

Top 3 Key Points:

1. Snap Groups: Easier window management with new group controls.
2. Camera OCR: Extract text from images in 77 languages.
3. Audio Enhancements: Auto Gain Control for improved microphone volume in calls.

Google has started rolling out ChromeOS 128, bringing significant updates to Chromebooks. This version includes several new features that enhance productivity, improve audio quality, and add useful tools for daily tasks.

Improved Window Management with Snap Groups

The update introduces Snap Groups for better multitasking. Now, when you split two windows on your screen, they are grouped. You can resize both windows at the same time, move them as a pair, and quickly adjust their size with a new, more noticeable handle between them.

Enhanced Audio Controls with Auto Gain

For users on video calls, Auto Gain Control (AGC) is now enabled by default. This feature automatically adjusts the microphone volume to improve audio clarity. A notification will appear in the settings to let you know when AGC is active. If you prefer manual control, you can turn this feature off in the Audio settings.

Camera App Now Supports OCR

The ChromeOS Camera app has been upgraded with Optical Character Recognition (OCR), which allows you to extract text from images. This feature supports 77 languages and works both horizontally and vertically. To enable it, go to Settings > Text Detection in Preview.

Other Key Updates

• Privacy Reminders: ChromeOS will now remind users to enable camera and microphone permissions when necessary through actionable alerts in the settings.
• Improved Notifications: Pinned notifications now look different from regular ones, making it easier to identify ongoing processes like downloads or system updates.
• Cellular Devices: Managing mobile network settings has become easier with improved Access Point Name (APN) options and better handling of registration errors.
• Accessibility: The ChromeVox screen reader now works with the magnifier tool, making it easier to follow along with text as it’s read aloud.
• Performance Tracking: ChromeOS now stores vital data on Android app performance for up to one year, helping Google improve the experience over time.

These updates are part of Google’s efforts to make ChromeOS more user-friendly and efficient, with a focus on both productivity and user experience improvements.