Pixel phone maker Google has recently launched the Android application streaming function, which can directly use mobile applications on Chromebook. For your information, Google kept this feature in beta before, and it has now been officially released in the Chrome OS M115 update.
Once enabling the Phone Hub feature it allows seamless streaming of Android apps from the user’s phone to their Chromebook without requiring installation.
This integration enables users to respond to messages and check the delivery status on the Chromebook, eliminating the need to pick up their phone and stay focused.
Android app streaming feature
Currently, this feature is compatible with select Google and Xiaomi phones running Android 13. For Google phones, it supports models from Pixel 4a onwards, while Xiaomi users should have at least Xiaomi 12T or a newer version.
To engage the connection, please make sure that both the Chromebook and phone must be connected to the same WiFi network and in close proximity. In cases where certain networks do not support this function, users can opt for Chrome OS’s Instant Tethering to create a connection.
It’s essential to note that this functionality is not suitable for running resource-intensive applications or games. Instead, it primarily serves the purpose of handling notifications conveniently, rather than handling complex tasks. For in-depth operations, users would still need to install applications.
The feature does bring some level of phone integration to Chromebooks, akin to what’s available in macOS and Windows, ultimately boosting productivity.
Meanwhile, Chrome OS M115 also introduces the ability to sign PDF documents and save signatures for future use, offering added utility. Additionally, Google has revamped the Shortcut app, focusing on keyboard-related functions, boasting a fresh interface, and making in-app searches more user-friendly.
Android 14 Satellite Connectivity
Apart from the above details, Google is currently developing the Android 14 SMS feature via satellite connectivity on mobile phones soon. Huawei and other companies have already launched devices powered by this device.
Users will be able to use their devices to send and receive SMS messages once the update is released, even in regions where cellular coverage is limited or unavailable.
Moreover, the tweet also mentioned that Pixel and Galaxy phones will be among the first Android models to have the hardware to support SMS via satellite.
“SMS Satellite will be added to Android, and requires appropriate hardware, it’s up to the manufacturer then Pixel and Galaxy will be among the first to have it,” Pixel #TeamPixel said.
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