The Difference Between Chromebook and Chromebook Plus
Google recently introduced a new category of Chromebooks called Chromebook Plus. These models have better specifications and come with additional features like AI capabilities and video calling. In this article, we will explore what Chromebook Plus is, how it differs from regular Chromebooks, and the perks it offers.
What Is Chromebook Plus
Chromebooks are known for their low specs as they are primarily designed for everyday tasks and web apps. However, with the increasing use of powerful web apps like VS Code and Photoshop, Chromebooks now support Linux and Android apps. Some Linux apps like Krita and Luma Fusion are even optimized specifically for ChromeOS.
To cater to users who require more power for their web-based creative work, Google has set a standard checklist of specifications for Chromebook Plus. If a Chromebook meets this checklist, it is classified as a Chromebook Plus and can run apps like Luma Fusion and Photoshop to a certain extent.
Minimum Specs Required for Chromebook Plus
To be considered a Chromebook Plus, a Chromebook must meet the following specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i3 12th Gen or above, or AMD Ryzen 3 7000 series or above
- RAM: 8GB or more
- Storage: 128GB or more
- Web camera: 1080p+ with Temporal Noise Reduction
- Display: Full HD IPS or better
Any previous Chromebook that meets these specifications will also be considered a Chromebook Plus.
Perks of Chromebook Plus
If you own or are planning to purchase a Chromebook Plus, here are some additional perks you can enjoy compared to regular Chromebook owners:
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AI video calling features: Chromebook Plus offers OS-level AI video calling features such as improved lighting, live captions, noise cancellation, and customizable background blur. These features can be accessed on the ChromeOS Shelf during video calls.
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Magic Eraser: Chromebook Plus laptops have access to the Magic Eraser feature on the Google Photos app. This feature allows you to easily remove objects and photo bombers from your photos by selecting the object you want to remove.
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Additional editing features on Google Photos: Chromebook Plus users can enjoy additional editing features on Google Photos, including the HDR effect and the ability to add portrait blur to existing photos.
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Photoshop on the web: Chromebook Plus laptops can run Photoshop on the web, providing more professional photo editing capabilities. Plus users also receive a 3-month subscription to the Abode Photoshop web app and Express Premium Android.
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Luma Fusion for video editing: Chromebook Plus users can use the Luma Fusion Linux app, which is optimized for Chromebooks. Plus users also receive a 25% discount on the one-time cost of LumaFusion.
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Filesync: Chromebook Plus devices with more than 128GB of storage can automatically download files from Google Drive onto the Chromebook.
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Future features: All Chromebook Plus features will be available to users before the end of 2023, with the possibility of more features being added in the future. One potential future feature is Google AI on ChromeOS, possibly including Bard integration.
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AI-powered wallpapers: Chromebook Plus users can generate AI-powered wallpapers directly from the Wallpaper and Style app. These wallpapers are designed to be “wallpaper-worthy.”
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AI backgrounds for video calls: The same AI generation feature can be used to create backgrounds for video calls, providing visually appealing options for video conferencing.
Chromebook Plus Devices Available
As of October 4th, 2023, the following Chromebook Plus models have been announced:
- Acer Chromebook Plus 515
- Acer Chromebook Plus 514
- Asus Chromebook Plus CM34 Flip
- Asus Chromebook Plus CX34
- HP Chromebook Plus 15.6 inch
- HP Chromebook x360 14-inch
- Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus
- Lenovo Slim 3i Chromebook Plus
These models will be available from October 8th in the US and October 9th in Canada and the UK. Additionally, Google has listed several existing Chromebooks that will receive Chromebook Plus perks.
Chromebook V2.0
While Chromebook Plus offers new features and specifications, it's important to note that Chromebooks may not have all the apps available on Windows or Mac. However, if you primarily use web apps for your work, Chromebooks can be a suitable choice. ChromeOS also offers unique features that are not available on other operating systems, making it worth considering.
In conclusion, Chromebook Plus provides users with enhanced specifications, additional features, and a unique set of perks. Whether you're a creative professional or someone who enjoys using web apps, Chromebook Plus offers a powerful and versatile computing experience.

Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
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