With Chrome OS 78 now broadly available, Google is detailing the new features coming in this release.
“One of the best parts of Chromebooks is that every new version of Chrome OS brings dozens of improvements to keep your device safe, fast and hassle-free,” Google’s Alexander Kuscher writes. “The latest version of Chrome OS includes tools to help you organize your workspace, make phone calls more easily, and print and share feedback more quickly.”
Sign up for our new free newsletter to get three time-saving tips each Friday — and get free copies of Paul Thurrott's Windows 11 and Windows 10 Field Guides (normally $9.99) as a special welcome gift!
"*" indicates required fields
Here’s what’s new.
Virtual Desks. Chrome’s long-awaited virtual desktop feature is finally here, and it’s called Virtual Desks. It looks and works like similar features in Windows or macOS and lets you create separate desktops for projects or other related activities.
Click-to-call. Now, you can right-click a phone number when browsing the web on your Chromebook and send the number to your mobile phone.
Improved printing. While it’s not clear exactly what changed here, apparently compatible printers will automatically show up in your printer list with no setup needed. (This has pretty much been my experience.)
Easier feedback sharing. Now it’s easier to share feedback with Google: Just press and hold the power button for a second, and you’ll see a Feedback button next to the Lock and Power off buttons.
Stooks
<p>.38% of Desktop users rejoice!</p>
Stooks
<blockquote><em><a href="#486675">In reply to abillimore:</a></em></blockquote><p>I looked up the October NetMarketShare numbers to get that number. The same data Paul uses all the time. </p><p><br></p><p>Not sure if that is world wide or US. </p>
Stooks
<blockquote><em><a href="#486835">In reply to ErichK:</a></em></blockquote><p>More of a joke based on the data. I personally have only seen them used in some public schools in my area. Outside of that I have never seen anyone seriously use one. </p>