The Next Chrome OS Update: What to Expect
The ChromeOS dev team has shared notes on the features scheduled to come with the next version of the Chromebook operating system, Chrome OS 134. The initial update is expected to be available starting this coming Monday, March 17th, but many of the features may arrive at dates beyond the primary rollout.
Improvements Galore
The features previewed on ChromeOS 134 developers’ notes are very interesting and functional. The notes share details on improvements for Google’s Quick Insert feature, special enterprise features, more accessibility features, and content manageability tools. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect:
### Slow Keys
ChromeOS 134 is committed to accessibility, and this feature is another example. Slow Keys is a feature that can help users who require more time and attention in their typing tasks to press keys with intent. It should especially be helpful for users with conditions that affect their fine motor skills, such as tremors, arthritis, or numbness to the fingertips.
The feature prompts a delay when a user presses the key, so the system knows the correct key has been pressed. This function is intended to help users type with better precision and fewer errors. ChromeOS 133 includes a similar feature called Bounce Keys, which will ignore repeated keystrokes pressed in succession when enabled, to provide a smoother typing experience with fewer unintended characters pressed.
### Student Data Transfer
ChromeOS 134 will get a feature later in March that will allow graduating students and other users with a .edu account to use a tool that will allow them to transfer the data from their school-associated accounts to a personal Gmail account. The tool will move content from Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Gmail. School administrators will be able to deploy the tool to users by pinning it to users’ Chromebook shelves. They will also be able to send notifications and schedule reminders to student users so that they can take advantage of the tool.
### GIFs with Quick Insert Support
ChromeOS 134 is expanding the functions of its Quick Insert to allow users to use the feature as a shortcut for GIF insertion. Users will be able to add GIFs to messages and documents without leaving the Quick Insert menu. Chromebook Plus netbooks have a Quick Insert button on the keyboard, while standard Chromebooks can access Quick Insert via a Launcher + F shortcut. This addition should make for a welcome function to the Quick Insert menu.
### Isolated Web Apps for Kiosk Mode
ChromeOS 134 will include Isolated Web Apps (IWAs) support, which works as an enterprise-level secure app offering that allows for controlling public-facing kiosks and digital signage displays. The feature allows administrators to securely manage IWAs and deploy content onto devices through the Admin console.
Conclusion
The next Chrome OS update is packed with exciting features that will improve the overall user experience. From accessibility improvements to enhanced productivity tools, Chrome OS 134 is shaping up to be a significant upgrade. With the initial update expected to drop on Monday, March 17th, get ready to experience the latest and greatest from the Chrome OS team!
