Googlebook OS Review: A Rough Start for Android on Desktop Screens

A recent review by 9to5Google suggests that Google has created the beginnings of a desktop operating system designed specifically for the Android smartphone generation. The publication notes that while previous attempts to adapt touch-era lessons to PCs have failed, this new approach shows potential despite a rough initial execution.

The reviewer spent over a week testing the system, finding that it offers a more optimized experience than any previous large-screen Android iteration, including tablets and foldable devices. This represents a significant improvement over simply connecting a Pixel phone to an external display, providing a level of nativeness that was previously missing from Chromebooks.

In plain English

The interface of Googlebook OS resembles ChromeOS visually but functions like Android underneath. For users already familiar with Android smartphones, the transition is relatively smooth, with the primary learning curve involving keyboard shortcuts. The top-right corner displays standard Android status icons, and tapping them opens Quick Settings that are nearly identical to the Pixel experience, except for the addition of a volume slider. A bell icon provides access to notifications and history, while a dedicated shortcut activates Magic Pointer for users who prefer not to use the cursor wiggle gesture.

The background

Historically, efforts to bring touch-screen benefits to personal computers have struggled. Windows 8 and later macOS updates featuring fullscreen apps failed to capture the market, and even the iPad, built on iOS, faced limitations due to its locked-down core. Googlebook OS attempts to overcome these hurdles by leveraging the familiarity of the Android ecosystem. The top-left corner shows the time, day, and date, with a tap opening a calendar similar to the one on ChromeOS. This design choice aims to bridge the gap between mobile convenience and desktop productivity without the historical baggage of previous failed attempts.

What changes now

The implementation includes specific hardware integrations, such as on the HP Googlebook 14, where the F1 key serves as the Android back button. The F2 key acts as the Home button, returning users to the desktop, while F3 accesses the Recents screen. These shortcuts provide quick navigation that enhances the user experience. Additionally, media controls are streamlined; a small pill icon shows the current track and app, allowing users to hover for quick play/pause options or tap for full controls. This reduces the clicks needed to manage media compared to other desktop operating systems, taking advantage of the cursor interface in a way that feels natural to Android users.

What to do and how to stay safe: Googlebook OS

• Check if your current Android device supports external display connections to test desktop-like workflows.
• Review keyboard shortcut guides for Android to prepare for potential transitions to desktop interfaces.
• Monitor official announcements from Google regarding hardware compatibility for the new operating system.
• Evaluate your current productivity needs to see if a touch-optimized desktop OS fits your workflow.

Step-by-step guide: How Software Updates Work: The Hidden Verification Steps

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Frequently asked questions

How does Googlebook OS differ from standard Android on tablets?

According to 9to5Google, it is more optimized for large screens and offers a level of nativeness missing from previous desktop Android experiences.

Is the interface similar to ChromeOS?

It looks like ChromeOS on the surface but feels like Android, with familiar status icons and quick settings from the Pixel experience.

What hardware shortcuts are available on the HP Googlebook 14?

The F1 key acts as the back button, F2 is the Home button, and F3 accesses the Recents screen for quick navigation.