Chrome OS 96: document scanning, QR Code, nearby sharing, focus on new features

The new version of the Chrome OS operating system is being deployed on Chromebooks. Google has put particular emphasis on the camera application by adding several interesting features for office automation. In addition, nearby sharing now extends to all Android apps.

Earlier this year, fingerprint logins broke into Chromebooks. A flagship feature of Chrome OS 88. For the record, the operating system dear to Chromebooks is regularly updated. And now it’s Chrome OS 96’s turn to roll out to devices. A new version which is not revolutionary, but which nevertheless incorporates notable innovations. In particular on the side of the Chrome OS Camera app.

Indeed, you can now use the camera (front or rear) of your Chromebook to scan a paper document. It is also possible to easily convert it to a PDF file or a JPEG image. To do this, simply open the application and then select the mode Digitization. Then place your document in front of the lens and the application will automatically detect its borders.

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Chrome OS 96: a QR Code reader is now in the game

In addition, video calls now benefit from new options. Thanks to the Pan-Tilt-Zoom function, it is now possible to adjust the viewing angle during video calls if you are using an external webcam on your Chromebook. Concretely, you can crop and tilt your camera view as you like. Handy for showing a life scene taking place in the background or just zooming in on yourself. Note that your viewing angle preferences will be saved for future calls.

In addition, new features are emerging: a video mode to send a quick video message to a loved one, a self-timer for photos or even a QR Code reader. Another big novelty is the expansion of nearby sharing, which allows you to share a file with a phone or tablet located nearby, as a reminder. Until then, it was only available on the Files app, system apps, and some progressive web apps. Now, nearby sharing is supported on all Android applications via their sharing interface. What offer better support for two ecosystems that are Android and Chrome OS.

Finally, other minor changes are also on the menu for this new version. You can now disable / enable app notifications directly in settings. Now larger, the Wallpaper app is also available in the launcher and no longer just by right-clicking.