Google has released a new version of ChromeOS that lets you sync your desktops across devices, which is perfect for those who work on multiple Chromebooks. It also significantly improves the AI-powered wallpapers available on Chromebook Plus laptops, with a completely customizable tooltip.
Desktop sync helps you pick up where you left off when you switch devices. It syncs your windows, tabs, and cookies so you can move from one device to another without losing where you were. Google believes this feature will be especially useful for healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing workers who may share a pool of devices. This feature is optional, but can be enabled in ChromeOS user settings under the “Desktop Sync” section.
ChromeOS version 138 also includes a significant update to the AI-powered wallpapers, which remain exclusive to the more powerful Chromebook Plus models. The previous version, introduced in May 2024 with Gemini, limited users to certain art styles and a narrow range of tooltip formats. It now offers a free-form tooltip text box, giving users much more control over the generated wallpaper. If that seems like too much freedom, the “Inspire Me” button will generate a wallpaper and tooltip to give you some ideas to get you started.
Chromebook Plus users will also get an AI-powered “Help Me Read” feature that will make it easier to read jargon-laden or technical text. All ChromeOS devices will get the ability to use Lens to search the screen or directly highlight text from images, as well as various bug fixes designed to improve accessibility.
