Author: Kevin Tofel

As early as Chrome version 69, you’ll be able to log into a web service without using a password but with the added security benefits of either biometrics or a PIN thanks to the coming support for CTAP2 FIDO devices.

Work on a Chrome OS device called Cheza began in December but lately the Chromium team has been ramping up efforts. Code suggests a Qualcomm 845 chip with LTE powering a detachable display Chromebook.

The Chrome OS Dev Channel v. 69 update is out and there appears to be quite a few new features: The beginnings of the “Better Together” multidevice setup, a smoother system tray and updated Files app to name a few.

Fresh out of the box is an Acer Chromebook Tab 10 review unit, the first Chrome OS tablet to hit the market. Since this is a unique device — a small tablet that runs Chrome OS — I’m sure many readers have questions. Shoot ’em over!

If you were waiting for Project Crostini to move past the Dev Channel, you’re going to be waiting a little longer. Google has decided to hold the feature, which lets you run full Linux apps in a container, to Chrome 69 for both the Beta and Stable Channels.

Last month, I reported on an experimental picture-in-picture (PiP) feature that I used on my Chromebook. Google will enable the PiP API by default with Chrome version 69, and not just for Chromebooks. It will also be available in the Chrome browser for Windows, Mac and Linux. And eventually, Chrome for Android support will follow.

This doesn’t quite look like the “Better Together” service I reported on earlier in the month, however, Google announced Android Messages support for the web today. The feature will allow Chromebook users and those on desktops to send, receive, and reply to messages directly in the browser.

One of the most common (and valid) complaints I hear from readers is new Chromebook availability in regions outside of the U.S. So I’m happy to see the HP Chromebook X2 on Google’s Chromebook site for £599 in the UK.

Great news if you have an Asus Chromebook Flip 101 and want to run full Linux apps: A code commit shows that the 10.1-inch convertible Chromebook should be getting that feature via Project Crostini soon.

Last month, Acer introduced the Chromebook Spin 15, which it said was the largest convertible Chromebook ever. The company also said device availability was planned for July, but as of today you can order it directly from Acer for $449.99.

Picking the wallpaper on your Chromebook, Chromebox or Chrome OS tablet will look much nicer thanks to a refresh available in the latest Dev Channel. The old “surprise me” feature will be supplanted by the same Backdrop service Google uses with Chromecast devices.