On Tuesday, Google introduced the new Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus, which, at just over 2.5 pounds, is now the company’s lightest and slimmest Chromebook Plus model. The device boasts impressive specs, including 8GB of RAM, an Intel Core i3 100U processor, 256GB of storage, and a 15.6-inch OLED display. However, what really stood out was the inclusion of a brand-new feature: the Quick Insert key.
This new key opens a menu filled with various tools and functions. Google explains that Quick Insert offers AI-powered features such as “Help me write,” which assists users in drafting or editing text, alongside other non-AI functions like emoji and GIF selection, easy access to recently opened websites for quick copy-pasting, Google Drive search for files, photos, and documents, as well as practical utilities like a calculator, date stamp, and unit converter. For non-Chromebook users, this setup is reminiscent of the Google Docs “@” menu that pulls up similar options.
According to The Verge, this new key replaces the search and launcher button found on older Chromebooks, but it’s not a standalone button. Instead, it shares its spot with the Caps Lock key, marked by a “caps” label and an icon resembling a diamond with a plus symbol, signifying Quick Insert. For users without the new key, Google assures that they can still access Quick Insert through a keyboard shortcut, meaning no need to upgrade hardware just for this feature.
Google also revealed that, starting next year, more Chromebook and Chromebook Plus models will be equipped with the Quick Insert key, along with an AI image generator that will be integrated into this function.
New AI-powered features for Chromebook Plus In addition to the Quick Insert key, Google introduced several AI-driven tools specifically for Chromebook Plus devices. These include “Help me read,” which summarizes text through a right-click; Live Translate, offering real-time translated captions for video content or calls; and an enhanced Recorder app that uses AI to differentiate between speakers and create detailed transcriptions. New AI video call features are also set to improve users’ voice clarity and appearance during virtual meetings.
Google didn’t stop there. A few additional features will be rolled out to all Chromebooks, including the ability to chat with Gemini directly from the operating system (rather than a web interface), a three-month free trial of Google One AI Premium, a “Welcome Recap” summarizing activity from your Google devices since the last login, a new “Focus” mode for reducing distractions, and the option to pin files directly to your home screen for quicker access.