Chromebooks run on Google's ChromeOS and they provide a more lightweight OS experience compared to full-fledged desktop operating systems like Windows or macOS. This doesn't mean that ChromeOS can't help you get things done; quite the contrary.
The newest version of ChromeOS, ChromeOS 124, has started rolling out to all Chromebooks and devices that support it, and it is bringing several pretty cool features to the table.
Your Chromebook's OS Is Ready To Run On A Shiny New Version, With Several Improvements
I live for software updates because they make my life easier and bring features that I never even realized that I needed that bad. ChromeOS 124 is bringing a few very useful changes to the table.
Multitask Even Faster Than Before
The one change that you're likely to notice the most when using the new version of ChromeOS is that setting up a split-screen view when multitasking is about to be simpler than it ever has been. In fact, if you've ever used the “snap”-like feature to set up two windows on Windows, this won't be foreign to you.
Now, once you snap a window to the left or right half of your screen, you'll be presented with a selection of all your open windows in the empty half of the screen, and you can simply click one of them to instantly make it the second window. However, you'll also be able to open an app from the shelf at the bottom of the screen if it isn't one of your currently opened applications.
WiFi QoS Prioritizes Certain Web Traffic
Using ChromeOS 124, your WiFi also gets a Quality of Service feature that makes it easier for the apps that matter to have their traffic prioritized on congested wireless networks. For instance, that includes video conferencing apps and games, which tend to suffer the most from network cutouts. This means less buffering and fewer disconnects.
Pair Mice Faster Than Before
Some devices are compatible with a feature called Fast Pair, which allows them to detect your Chromebook by themselves and connect to them, which saves you from needing to go walking through Bluetooth menus or whatever.
Now, ChromeOS supports computer mice that have Fast Pair, so as soon you bring one close to your Chromebook or other ChromeOS device, you'll be able to pair it simply with a single click.
And A Few Others
There are some other features that the team at Google has added to ChromeOS 124 that may not be noticed by as many people but are still very useful. For instance, you know have the ability to change the size of your mouse cursor to something much larger. This is a very useful accessibility feature that will make Chromebook use a lot more comfortable for many.
It's also been noticed that the Settings page on ChromeOS 124 has gotten a redesign to embrace Google's Material You aesthetic. It's a nicer look though, I'll say, though a very minor change and the only UI change noticed at this point.
