 "Google Essentials app for Windows")
Google Essentials app for Windows
Google has introduced a new app called “Google Essentials” which is designed to be a one-stop shop for accessing various Google services such as Google Photos, Google Messages and more on a Microsoft Windows PC. Google Play Games on PC, currently in beta, will also be available through this new app. Google Play Games is a PC application that allows users to play smartphone games on their Windows PCs.
Google Essentials app for Windows: What it is and how it works
In a blog post about the new app, Google stated, “You can open Google Essentials directly from the Start menu and easily switch between your phone and laptop.” While the company didn’t provide any details about the interface, it did mention that services like Google Photos and Google Messages will be accessible within the Essentials app. The app also offers shortcuts to Google Workspace services, including Google Docs, Drive, Calendar, and more. Additionally, Google is offering eligible users a two-month trial of a 100GB Google One subscription.
Regarding Google Play Games, the company noted that the service not only allows users to play smartphone games on Windows, but also allows them to sync their game progress. This feature allows gamers to pick up where they left off on their Android smartphones and vice versa.
Google Essentials app for Windows: availability and compatibility
The new Google Essentials app will be available first on HP PCs. Google announced that the app will be rolling out to both HP’s consumer and gaming PCs, including the Spectre, Envy, Pavilion, OMEN, and Victus series. The HP OmniBook series will receive the app at a later date.
Google stated that once the Essentials app is available, HP PC users will be able to install other Google apps when “setting up a new PC.” This suggests that the Essentials app will be pre-installed on new HP laptops. However, Google confirmed that the user can uninstall the app at any time.
The Google Essentials app cannot be downloaded via a standalone link and is currently only available for HP laptops and desktops, but Google said it plans to expand the app to more laptops and desktops in the coming months.
First published: 23 August 2024 | 10:47 am IS
