Google apps are everywhere. Aside from Apple devices, the company’s software runs by default on almost every computer, phone, and tablet in some form. But have you ever wondered if there’s an essential or extremely useful app out there that you should have? It seems the tech giant is answering those burning questions with the new Google Essentials.
It’s an app that supposedly makes it easy to “discover and install” many of the brand’s first-party services on Windows. Essentials technically already exists, but these apps are more geared toward office environments. This upcoming set is intended for everyday users, and according to the official announcement, Essentials apps will be divided into two main categories.
The first group includes a collection of shortcuts to productivity platforms like Google Docs, Drive, and Calendar. It even offers quick access to Google Photos and Messages, so you can “enjoy your photo albums (or) reply to texts” anytime. Eligible Essentials users also get a two-month trial of the Basic Google One subscription.
The second group is all about gaming. The Google Play Games platform lets you try out thousands of titles, and if you log in to your Play Games account, you can sync your game progress across devices.
Gradual release
Google Essentials will not be released to all Windows computers at the same time. Instead, it will be rolled out gradually.
Several HP laptop series, including Spectre, Envy, Omen, and Pavilion, will get Google Essentials first, with the OmniBook lines getting it later. On HP laptops, Essentials is in the Start menu, and you can use the app to switch between your phone and your laptop.
Google further states that users can uninstall all service shortcuts or “essentials altogether” at any time and that this is not built into the laptop. There are plans to expand the app to Windows laptops and desktops in the coming months.
It’s unknown when Essentialls will be generally available, nor do we know which models will receive the update. We’ve reached out to Google for more information and this article will be updated if we receive a response.
Until then, check out TechRadar’s list of the best Windows laptops for 2024.
