Chromebooks have gained popularity due to their affordability and user-friendly interface. However, users have faced challenges in managing apps across different platforms, including web apps, Android apps, and Linux apps, due to the need to navigate through various sources like the Chrome browser, Google Play Store, and sometimes the command line for Linux apps. This creates a fragmented and often confusing experience, especially for new users.
Streamlining Chromebook App Discovery
To address this issue, Google is introducing a new app store for ChromeOS called the “App Mall.” This initiative aims to simplify the app discovery and installation process by providing a centralized platform for users to find and install a wide variety of apps.
According to code snippets found in Chrome, the functionality is hidden behind a flag in Chrome settings, but it points to a website called “discover.apps.chrome.” While the website isn’t live yet, it hints at the upcoming online store.
While it’s still early days, and specific details about the types of apps that will be featured in the “App Mall” are not fully disclosed, it is anticipated that at least Android and web apps, including games, will make the cut. This speculation is buoyed by the current capability of Chromebooks to discover certain apps through the built-in “Explore” app, suggesting that the “App Mall” will likely expand on this foundation to offer a more comprehensive discovery experience.
This consolidation could significantly enhance the user experience, making it easier and more intuitive for Chromebook owners to uncover new apps and games, thereby maximizing the utility and versatility of their devices.
Google is also working on its Chrome browser as they have recently introduced three new generative AI features in its latest release (M121) for users in the U.S. on Mac and Windows PCs. These features include AI Tab Groups for organizing open tabs automatically, Custom Themes with AI for creating personalized themes using a text-to-image diffusion model, and “Help Me Write,” an AI-powered writing assistance tool set to launch in the next release.
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(Via)
