Google is set to release some new changes to its laptop/desktop operating system. Some of these changes are pretty minor, but they’re still useful. ChromeOS is getting filters for search, some options for the lock screen, and other changes.
Google pushes updates to ChromeOS on a monthly basis. It gets updated along with the Chrome browser as well. However, the company recently changed this so that the browser and the operating system can be updated separately. This way, if the browser needs a minor update, Google doesn’t need to push a full operating system update.
ChromeOS is bringing filters for the search feature and more changes
When you’re using ChromeOS, you have the ability to do a general system search. When you access the search bar in the launcher, you’ll just need to type in your keywords. Then, the system will search throughout your system for different apps, images, files, settings, shortcuts, etc. You’ll also get web results.
According to XDA Developers, the update will add filters to the right side of the search bar. This will help you refine your search. Say, you only want to search through your files. Well, you’ll be able to select the Files filter to only show results for files.
Other than that, Google is bringing some more features. When you’re on your lock screen, the computer shows the users’ username and profile picture. However, Google will give you the ability to choose whether the system will show this information.
This next one will seem familiar if you use Android or iOS. When you’re installing an app onto your device, you’ll be able to see its progress on the actual launcher.
Moving over to the settings, there are two minor changes coming. The computer will directly tell you that, if you remove the Google Play services, it will remove all of the Android apps from your ChromeOS device. Lastly, the Manage your apps and Notification settings won’t be bundled in the same section.
There’s still time to wait
Right now, we don’t know when Google is going to launch these features, so you’ll want to hang tight. If you’re a little more tech-savvy, you can activate the search filters today. What you have to do is enable the Enable launcher search control flag. Just know that this feature is still experimental, so it might not be 100% stable.