Latest news with #SameerSamat
Gizmodo
2 hours ago
- Gizmodo
ChromeOS Needs More Love and Attention Than a Mobile Makeover With Android
After diving into the luxurious Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, I have ChromeOS on my mind. Apparently, so does Google. In an interview with TechRadar, Android 'daddy' Sameer Samat dropped a small bombshell about the future of ChromeOS, though without providing any of the raw details. He said Google plans to combine ChromeOS and Android 'into a single platform.' This project seems to be in the early phase of development. Samat said he was analyzing what apps people are using on their PCs or Macs, which he would want to emulate in a revised Android laptop experience. Google is known for killing products, but is this a form of death for ChromeOS or a transformation? It will depend on if Google actually focuses on making a platform built for the regular laptop user or if it merely paints ChromeOS over with the bold yet all-too-tacky Material 3 Expressive aesthetic. At its recent I/O dev conference, Google said the upcoming Android 16 is supposed to support tablet-sized displays better than before. That's a good thing, since software on Android tablets has been languishing for years. Google's plans to combine all its disparate ecosystems into one put it in stark contrast with Apple. Though most of the attention has lingered on the Liquid Glass redesign, the iPad maker recently revealed its plans for iPadOS 26, a redesign that will finally enable multiple app windows on a screen at once. While the OS update will make the iPad more Mac-like, the developer beta shows how the experience is tailored for tablets. If Google actually plans to make a real change to ChromeOS, it needs to think big. It needs to create an experience tailored to the lower-powered, lower-cost laptop design. And no, that update can't just be more AI shoved into every nook and cranny. Chromebooks receive regular yearly feature updates that feel more like ChromeOS is being saddled with hand-me-downs from Google's other flagship products. There are certain features, like Google Tasks integration on the app shelf and the GIF recorder made for sending a quick meme to friends, that are all fine and dandy. But little about the experience feels truly bespoke. Outside a bevy of streaming apps and a few games on the Play Store that play nice with laptop resolutions, users are expected to jump into the Chrome browser for all their important tasks. Want to write? Use Google Docs. Want to edit photos? Jump into the constrained cloud-based version of Photoshop. This lack of a larger ChromeOS developer community makes the Chromebook feel too much like a one-trick pony. You can do a lot with it, though only so far as you're willing to sign up for half a dozen cloud services for running code, editing photos or videos, or playing games. These are meant to be cheap devices that anybody can get into, but more so they're a vehicle for Google to push its various subscription services. The big one today is Google One, a $20-a-month service that grants you 2TB of cloud storage—which I will admit is enticing by itself—but the main reason it exists is it allows access to Google's most advanced Gemini AI models. Google currently tries to entice users with the promise of six months of Google One for no extra cost when you buy a new Chromebook. Of course, you'll have to cancel the subscription yourself once the bill becomes due. Over the last few years, Gemini has come to roost on the company's cheapo laptop line, and now it's perched on the former Caps Lock key as the 'Quick Access' button. There are a few features like 'Help me read' to summarize text or 'Help me write' to jot down an email when you can't be bothered to format a few bare sentences. There are some other AI features Google likes to promote, like Google Lens image searches of your photos in the Gallery app. For the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14, Google added its AI recording and note-taking app NotebookLM right to the app shelf as well. None of this provides what I would consider a fleshed-out experience. Instead, Google needs to focus on making Android apps truly compatible with Chromebook. While I can get Disney+ or GeForce Now native apps right from the ChromeOS desktop screen, there are far too many apps restricted to operating in tablet mode. Chromebooks are still a distinct form of laptop—one whose main selling point is affordability—but they could be more. It demands a bespoke experience that's more than just a gateway to Google services.
India Today
2 hours ago
- India Today
Google is combining ChromeOS and Android: What is means, how will it work and everything explained in 5 points
After years of speculation, Google has finally confirmed that it is working to bring ChromeOS and Android together. In a conversation with TechRadar, Sameer Samat, President of the Android Ecosystem at Google, revealed for the first time that a full merger is in progress. While there's still no official timeline, this announcement signals a significant shift in how Google approaches software across laptops, tablets, and phones. Here's everything you need to know about the plan – in five key confirms it is merging Android and ChromeOSSameer Samat, a senior Google executive, has confirmed that the company is working to combine its two operating systems – Android and ChromeOS – into a single unified platform. This is the first time a Google official has openly acknowledged such a move. 'We're going to be combining ChromeOS and Android into a single platform,' Samat said when asked about his interest in cross-device usage, especially among Apple users. His comment confirms long-running rumours dating back to late 2024, when reports first suggested the company was planning a multi-year project to bring the systems Google is doing this nowThe goal of merging the two systems is to create a more seamless experience across devices, from laptops and tablets to smartphones. By unifying Android and ChromeOS, Google can simplify its software offerings, improve compatibility across form factors, and better compete with Apple's ecosystem. Samat's interest in how people use their laptops highlights the company's focus on everyday productivity and the growing overlap between desktop and mobile computing. It has already begun, and AI is part of the plan While the merger is now official, the groundwork was laid months ago. In early 2024, Google began merging parts of the Android kernel into ChromeOS, in a move designed to speed up AI feature rollouts. By aligning the systems at a technical level, Google hopes to bring more advanced AI capabilities, like those seen in Pixel devices, to Chromebooks and Android tablets. The merger now seems like a natural next step in that this means for future Chromebooks and Android devicesIf all goes as planned, we could soon see Chromebooks that run this new unified OS, with better Android app compatibility and stronger integration with Android phones. A leaked internal project, codenamed 'Snowy,' even hints at a Pixel-branded laptop that could debut the new software experience. On the Android side, the upcoming Android 16 update is set to introduce a desktop mode with multi-window multitasking on external screens, further blurring the line between mobile and desktop expect it all to happen at onceWhile this is a major shift for Google, the transition won't be immediate. The company hasn't announced a rollout date, and reports suggest the platform is still in early development. It's unlikely we'll hear anything concrete at the rumoured mid-August Pixel 10 launch event. For now, this is a long-term play, but one that could dramatically change how Android and ChromeOS users experience their devices in the years to come- Ends
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Business Standard
3 hours ago
- Business Standard
Tech Wrap July 15: ChromeOS Android merger, HMD T21 tablet, OnePlus AI
Google to merge ChromeOS and Android platforms. HMD T21 tablet launched. OnePlus AI suite rolls out to OnePlus 13, 13R. Realme C71 5G launched. Canva in Claude AI. Nothing Phone 3, Headphone 1 on sale BS Tech New Delhi Soon, Google will merge ChromeOS and Android platforms Google has officially announced plans to integrate ChromeOS and Android into one cohesive platform. This strategy was initially suggested last year when the company revealed its intention to transition ChromeOS — the OS that powers Chromebooks — to Android's core framework. Now, Google's Android Ecosystem chief Sameer Samat has provided further insight in a conversation with TechRadar. HMD has introduced a new tablet in India, the HMD T21. This latest device is equipped with a 10.36-inch screen and a sizable 8,200mAh battery. It comes with support for 4G voice calling, a dedicated mode tailored for children, and compatibility with an active pen (sold separately) for creative tasks. OnePlus has started distributing its AI-based Plus Mind feature to the OnePlus 13 and OnePlus 13R devices. Originally launched with the OnePlus 13s, the feature is part of the broader OnePlus AI suite, which is intended to help users manage, organize, and access information more efficiently. Other tools in the suite include AI VoiceScribe, AI Search, AI Translation, among others. Realme has unveiled its C71 5G smartphone in the Indian market. Positioned for entry-level users, the device features a 6,300mAh battery, a UNISOC T7250 processor, and boasts enhanced durability with the brand's Armorshell Tough Build design. According to Realme, a single charge can power the phone for up to two days. Claude AI, developed by Anthropic, is gaining a new feature that allows users to create, modify, and manage Canva designs using natural language commands. This integration brings Canva's creative tools directly into Claude's interface, removing the need to toggle between separate applications. Nothing has launched its latest flagship device, the Phone 3, along with its debut over-ear headphones, Headphone 1, in India. Both products became available on July 1. The Phone 3 retains the brand's distinctive transparent design but now incorporates a Glyph Matrix, an evolved version of the previous Glyph Interface LED system. Samsung will unveil its Galaxy F36 5G smartphone in India on July 19. In the lead-up to the launch, a dedicated microsite has appeared on Flipkart, confirming that the device will come equipped with several AI-centric features for creativity and productivity, including tools like Object Eraser, Edit Suggestions, and Image Clipper. Google is testing enhancements to its Discover feed on both Android and iOS platforms. According to 9To5Google, the updates may include AI-generated summaries of articles and a simplified bookmarking function. These AI summaries aim to combine details from various sources for a concise overview, while the new bookmark icon may streamline list management — all from within the feed. Krafton, the South Korean gaming firm, is set to launch a major update for Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) on July 16. The BGMI team has posted a video on YouTube, showcasing what's new in the update. As revealed, players can expect a Transformers-themed experience in the Neon Town mode with the 3.9 version rollout. Meta has strengthened its policy against repetitive or recycled content on Facebook. The new measures focus on curbing accounts that frequently repost text, images, or videos without meaningful edits. The goal is to reduce spam and fake interactions, while promoting fair recognition for creators sharing unique content. Microsoft is working on a feature for Windows 11 that resembles Google's Circle to Search. In Insider Preview Build 26200.5702, which is available in the Dev Channel, a new option named 'describe image' has been added under the 'Click to Do' section for Copilot+ PCs. While it's not officially labeled as a Circle to Search rival, it appears to offer similar functionality — helping users interact with images and receive relevant information. Apple is reportedly preparing to release its first foldable iPhone in 2026, marking a significant change in its product line. As per a 9To5Google report, the upcoming foldable — possibly named iPhone Fold — may feature a book-style fold, a seamless display, a quad-camera system, and a titanium chassis, similar to the iPhone 16 Pro series. Aniplex, a Sony-owned Japanese entertainment firm, has opened pre-orders for the Resident Evil: Survival Unit game on the Apple App Store. Though the game won't be available until December 31, 2025, users can already secure their spot by pre-ordering. Nothing continues to push the envelope with its unconventional approach. From transparent earbuds to phones that flash and buzz like minimalist gadgets from the future, the Nothing Phone 3 stays true to the brand's identity. It evolves the familiar see-through look and takes some bold steps, particularly with its redesigned rear cameras and updated Glyph Matrix system. Artificial Intelligence is rapidly transforming industries and everyday life, but according to Deloitte South Asia CEO Romal Shetty, it will ultimately create more opportunities than it replaces. He highlighted the importance of maintaining critical thinking and ethical governance as AI becomes a core part of society. San Francisco has started implementing Microsoft's AI-powered tools for around 30,000 government employees. This marks one of the largest-scale AI deployments in the public sector globally, aiming to enhance efficiency and service delivery. Nasscom, the industry association for the tech sector, has launched a US CEO Forum to further strengthen technology ties between India and the US. The initiative is designed to enhance collaboration and reinforce the bilateral digital partnership as a driver of inclusive global growth.
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Business Standard
12 hours ago
- Business Standard
Soon, Google will merge ChromeOS and Android platforms: What it means
Google confirms plans to merge Android and ChromeOS into a unified platform, aiming to boost performance, streamline development, and improve cross-device sync New Delhi Google has confirmed that it is merging ChromeOS and Android into a single unified platform. This move was first hinted at last year when the company announced plans to shift ChromeOS — the operating system that powers Chromebooks — to run on Android's foundational architecture. Now, Google Android Ecosystem head, Sameer Samat, has offered more clarity on the development in an interview with TechRadar. Samat stated that Google is 'going to be combining ChromeOS and Android into a single platform' to accelerate development cycles and create a more seamless experience across phones and laptops. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Samat elaborated on the approach: 'We're building the ChromeOS experience on top of Android's underlying technology to unlock new levels of performance, iterate faster, and make your laptop and phone work better together.' ChromeOS to be built on Android: What does it mean? Back in June 2024, Google announced that ChromeOS would soon be built on Android's Linux kernel and core frameworks. The move aimed to streamline development, deepen AI integration, and improve compatibility between Android phones and Chromebooks. At the time, however, the company did not go into detail about what this shift would actually mean for users. Now, with Android ecosystem head Sameer Samat reaffirming the plan in a recent TechRadar interview, the picture is becoming clearer. The biggest takeaway: while the technical underpinnings of ChromeOS are being overhauled, the user interface and overall experience are likely to remain unchanged — for now. That aligns with what 9To5Google has reported about Chromebook adoption, particularly in education and enterprise segments. Given the platform's growing reputation in these sectors, a radical redesign would likely be counterproductive. Instead, Google seems focused on modernising the backend while keeping the front-end experience familiar and reliable.
Phone Arena
20 hours ago
- Business
- Phone Arena
Google just confirmed a big shift for Android
— Sameer Samat, President of Android ecosystem at Google. Receive the latest Android news By subscribing you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy This offhand remark appears to be the first public confirmation of Google's long-rumored initiative. According to prior reporting, including a November story we covered here , Google is not building an entirely new operating system from scratch. Instead, the company is planning to migrate Chrome OS features and functionality directly into means Android is expected to take the lead as the core system, with Chrome OS components integrated into it over time. This approach allows Google to unify its efforts without forcing a complete reinvention, while also aligning with Android's recent push toward improving its large-screen fact, Android has already started evolving in this direction. Google has introduced a range of updates specifically aimed at enhancing productivity on tablets and laptops. These include a proper desktop mode, windowed multitasking, better support for external displays, and improved app behavior on large interest in how users engage with laptops today suggests the project is still in development, with user feedback likely playing a role in shaping the final result. While the executive did not share any release timelines or product roadmaps, his statement indicates that work is already underway behind the potential merger could also put Google in a stronger position to compete with Apple's iPadOS and macOS ecosystem, especially for users who switch between devices or want continuity across phones, tablets, and laptops. By creating a more seamless and consistent experience across form factors, Google may aim to address one of Android's long-standing challenges: fragmentation between details remain scarce, this is one of the clearest signals yet that Google wants to simplify its ecosystem. Unifying Chrome OS and Android could help consolidate development efforts, improve user experience across devices, and better position Android for productivity. That said, Google's history with platform consolidation (think Fuchsia) suggests execution will be everything. Let's hope this strategy pays off.
