If you’re testing out Chrome OS beta, you’d be happy to know that Google has added a new feature that is expected to speed things up: the Chrome Launcher 2.0. Launchers have been very useful on smartphones but it’s only now that desktops can take advantage of them the same way in mobile devices. Launchers are not just simple shortcuts because they offer more information and easy access to apps you often use.
Actually, this Chrome Launcher 2.0 is already an improved version. On your Chrome browser, it appears like a new tab instead of a separate window that shows different app icons before. The new launcher comes with a search bar and is integrated with Google Now. This means you can see important details like your flight, reminer, or appointment cards. There’s still a list of the apps you often use.
Google is also adding a minor update to the Chrome OS beta. When traveling to different parts of the world, it will update the timezone automatically, as well as, unzip password-protected files for faster access when you need them. Of course, this update is also expected to bring Material Design elements to the Chrome OS but still in limited sections. Specifically, the Files app will sport a new look.
If you want to try out these new features, migrate to the beta channel you see on your Settings page. Update should be ready to be released for your device this week. Note that you can see the enhancements and upcoming features on the Beta channel with very minimal risk. Feel free to try this out before the Stable Channel gets all features in a few weeks or so.
