Hands-on with Googlebooks — Five models, the new Googlebook OS, and a Mac-style experience for Android users at premium prices

Google has unveiled its line of premium laptops called Googlebooks, designed to work seamlessly with Android devices and powered by a new OS that combines elements of ChromeOS and Android. The five models, from partners including Dell, Lenovo, HP, Asus, and Acer, will be available for pre-order starting today and hitting stores on October 4 in the U.S. and October 5 in Canada, the U.K., Ireland, France, Germany, and Australia.

These Googlebook laptops are built with high-quality materials, such as aluminum, magnesium, and carbon fiber, and feature high-resolution OLED screens, haptic touchpads, and a unique Glowbar that reacts to user interaction. They come with varying RAM and storage options, ranging from 16GB to 32GB and 256GB to 1TB, respectively. The devices are powered by either Qualcomm Snapdragon or Intel processors, with the Intel options ranging from the Core Ultra 5 to the Core Ultra 7.

The Googlebook OS is designed to integrate tightly with Android phones, allowing users to access their files, photos, apps, emails, and saved passwords across devices. While most work is still done through a browser, Googlebook OS includes a full file manager, AI-driven file descriptions, and desktop-style widgets. Applications come primarily from the Android Play Store, with Google highlighting popular apps like Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, CapCut, Netflix, and Disney+.

Users can expect a Mac-like experience for Android devices at a premium price, with the cheapest model starting at $899 and the most expensive at $1,299.