Chromebooks have a lot going for them- they’re compact, never get viruses, start fast and stay fast. But now Chromebooks have another great reason to pick one up - Google Gemini. What’s Google Gemini? Only the latest AI marvel that's about to transform how you get the most out of your day.
For Chromebook Plus users, this means having a brilliant digital assistant right at your fingertips, ready to tackle tasks with lightning speed and impressive smarts. Imagine having a study buddy that never sleeps, a research assistant that combs through information in seconds and a creative collaborator that helps you brainstorm ideas for your next project. That's what Google Gemini brings to your Chromebook Plus.
So, in this guide, we’ll help you get Gemini set up and talk about its best features. Plus, give you some productivity tips to help you get the most out of your Chromebook/ Gemini combo.
How to set up Google Gemini on Chromebook Plus
This is going to be really easy. Because if you already have Chromebook Plus, there’s nothing you need to do - it’s already built in!
But if you’re currently using an older Chromebook, you don’t have to miss out. Here’s how to add some Ai magic to your exisiting Chromebook. And there are two ways you can do it - either through the Chrome browser or in app form:
How to set up Google Gemini on Chrome browser
First things first, make sure your Chromebook is running the latest version of Chrome OS.
Go to the Chrome web store and find Gemini AI for Chrome.
Press the button that says “Add to Chrome.“
You should see a small floating icon on bottom right side of your screen.
Now you can click on this icon or press 'Alt + G' to open the Gemini AI in the sidebar.
Ask Gemini a question and have fun!
How to set up Google Gemini as an app
Open your Chrome browser and visit gemini.google.com/app
Sign in with your Google account.
Click on the 3 dots in the top right corner of your screen.
Select Save and share and then Create shortcut.
Give your app a name, if you don’t want to call it Gemini. Click on Open as a window and then Create.
Gemini will now appear as an app on your desktop. Easy.
Key features of Google Gemini on Chromebook Plus
Ok, so now that you've got Gemini up and running, let's explore some of the coolest things Gemini can do on your Chromebook Plus:
Help me write
Ever suffered from writer’s block, or simply don’t know where to start? Help me write can help you tackle everything from emails, social media posts, blog posts and so much more. And not only that. You can give it something you’ve written and it can help improve it too. Or if you just need a few ideas to get you started, it can do that too.
Help me read
It can be hard to set aside enough time and concentration for reading, especially with deadlines due. Coming soon to a Chromebook near you, Help me read can scan everything from PDFs to articles and write a helpful summary. It’s your new synopsis super power.
Live Translate
Didn’t pay attention during French class? Fortunately technology has caught up. Live Translate can give you live translations in real time - whether that’s while you’re messaging back and forth or watching foreign language content. C’est super!
Gemini Advanced
Currently, Chromebook Plus users get a year’s free access to Gemini Advanced - which includes even more powerful capabilities and priority access to new features.
Using Google Gemini for productivity on Chromebook Plus
Ready to become a productivity ninja? Here's how to get the most out of Gemini to get more done:
Focus
Ok, no more distractions! Set a timer for a specific Google task, put on some tunes, and let Gemini boost your focus by activating Do Not Disturb mode. This feature will be out soon.
Magic Eraser
If you’ve got an Android phone, you might have already seen Magic Eraser. But now there’s a Chromebook version that lots of people will find even easier to use with a mouse/ trackpad and keyboard. So it’s even easier to edit photos - removing objects, changing backgrounds and making pics look their very best. That’s hours of photo editing saved.
Hands-free control
Here’s another upcoming feature bound to be a game changer. You can now control your Chromebook with gestures and voice control - making it much quicker to tick off tasks, especially when you’re spinning lots of plates at once.
Imagine the possibilities! You could ask Gemini to open, read then summarise an email. Then you can ask it to compose a reply and send it when you’re happy. All without touching your keyboard.
Tips for enhancing workflow with Google Gemini
To make the most of Gemini on your Chromebook Plus, try these pro tips:
Gemini in Gmail: From writing emails to prioritising your inbox, Gemini’s like having your own personal assistant.
Be clear: The more precise you are with requests, and the more context you can give it, the more helpful Gemini can be in return.
Get coding help: Writing and testing code is a slow process - so ask Gemini to help out. Just describe what you need and get the code instantly. Wow!
Plan your day: Ask Gemini to help you plan out your tasks for the day and suggest the most efficient order to complete them.
Collaborative brainstorming: Use Gemini as a creative partner in your brainstorming sessions to generate fresh ideas.
So, is Google Gemini free? Yes, lots of Gemini’s key features are gratis - and Chromebook Plus users get free access to Gemini advanced too.
To get you started, we’ve added some of the best Chromebook Plus models around. But you can find out which Chromebook you should buy if you need more advice from our TechTalk experts.
