Google has launched a new app called "Google Essentials," which serves as a central hub for accessing various Google services like Google Photos, Google Messages, and more on Microsoft Windows PCs. The app will also include Google Play Games for PC, currently in its beta phase, allowing users to play smartphone games directly on their Windows PCs.

Figure 1. Google Launches The 'Essentials' App for Microsoft Windows Pcs

In a blog post about the new app, Google explained, "You can open Google Essentials directly from the start menu and seamlessly switch between your phone and laptop." Although details on the user interface have not been disclosed, the app will include access to services like Google Photos and Google Messages.[1] It will also provide shortcuts to Google Workspac e tools such as Google Docs, Drive, and Calendar. Additionally, Google is offering eligible users a 2-month trial of a Google One 100GB subscription. Figure 1 shows Google Launches The 'Essentials' App for Microsoft Windows Pcs.

Google highlighted that Google Play Games will enable users to play smartphone games on Windows PCs and sync their in-game progress. This feature allows players to seamlessly continue their games from where they left off on their Android smartphones or vice versa.

Google Essentials app for Windows: Availability and Compatibility

The new Google Essentials app will initially be available on HP PCs. Google has announced that the app will be rolled out to both consumer and gaming series PCs from HP, 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 becomes available, HP PC users will be able to install additional Google apps during the "setup of a new PC." This indicates that the Essentials app will likely come preloaded on new HP laptops. However, Google also confirmed that users will have the option to uninstall the app at any time.

The Google Essentials app is not available for standalone download and is currently rolling out exclusively to HP laptops and desktops. [2] Google has indicated that the app will be expanded to additional laptops and desktops in the coming months.

References:

1. https://www.business-standard.com/technology/tech-news/google-introduces-essentials-app-for-microsoft-windows-pcs-what-is-it-124082300226_1.html
2. https://www.moneycontrol.com/technology/google-announces-essentials-app-for-all-its-services-on-windows-pcs-article-12805113.html

Cite this article:

Janani R (2024), Google Launches The 'Essentials' App for Microsoft Windows Pcs: What Is It?, AnaTechmaz, pp. 182