ChromeOS 138 arrives with ‘Select-to-search’, Desk Sync and more

The latest version of ChromeOS is now beginning its roll-out to the stable channel; and M138 is a big one, packed with some fantastic new AI features and quality-of-life improvements. But let’s be honest, there’s one new feature that has me more excited than the rest, and that’s because I’ve been waiting somewhat impatiently for it. The fantastic “Select-to-search” feature is finally here!

‘Select-to-search’ lands in ChromeOS 138

After expressing my frustration with its delay just a couple of weeks ago, we’re thrilled to see that the “Circle to Search” equivalent for Chromebooks – Select to Search – has arrived. With this new feature, you can get more information about anything on your screen by visually searching with Lens or copying text directly from images.

To use it, you can simply click the Lens icon in your Launcher and select a region on your screen. Additionally, the feature is accessible from a long-press of the launcher icon on your screen and via the screen capture tool as well. It’s a seamless and powerful way to get information without breaking your flow, and we’re so glad it’s finally rolling out.

I quickly took it for a spin by selecting an image on my screen for the ribbon cutting of our new business Proof Golf (proofgolf.com for those interested in what we’re working on) and Google’s AI was able to extract the date and time details for me to quickly drop into my calendar. With abilities like this, I see myself using Select to Search quite often.

New AI-powered tools for Chromebook Plus

The ChromeOS 138 update also brings two powerful new AI features exclusively for Chromebook Plus devices.

• Improved AI wallpapers: This new feature offers an open input field that lets you generate unique AI wallpapers by simply typing in a prompt. If you’re not sure what you want, you can use the “Inspire me” feature, which will generate random prompts and wallpapers until you find one you love. It’s a great way to turn your background into a personal canvas. Note: I’m not seeing this feature live on my devices just yet.
• Help me read with Simplify: This AI-powered solution helps you quickly understand dense or complex text. You can now select a piece of text, right-click on it, and hit the “simplify” button to get a straightforward version of the source that’s easier to digest at a glance.

A seamless transition with Desk Sync

For users who switch between multiple Chromebooks, the new ChromeOS desk sync feature is a game-changer. It helps you quickly pick up right where you left off by restoring all windows, tabs, and even cookies from your previous session on another device. The feature can be enabled in your user settings under Desk sync and is particularly useful for shared devices and frontline workers. Note: I’m not seeing this feature live on my devices just yet.

Important accessibility refinements

This update also includes a focus on refining the accessibility experience by addressing several key issues. These include resolving incorrect heading levels in the Wallpaper settings for better screen reader navigation and improving how ChromeVox announces information in the Gallery app and during the initial out-of-box experience (OOBE).

As always, the update to ChromeOS 138 will be rolling out progressively over the coming days. You can check for it by heading to Settings > About ChromeOS > Check for updates.