Google has announced new ChromeOS features focused on education and accessibility. One of the most notable innovations is the ability to control the computer with head and face movements. This feature, designed for users with motor skill loss, was first introduced in December but will now be widely available for Chromebooks with 8GB RAM or higher.
Google’s History with Face Movement Control
This is not Google’s first step into face movement control. Previously, the company developed an open-source AI accessibility tool called Project Gameface for Windows and Android devices. Now, the company is integrating this technology into ChromeOS to provide access to more users.
Google also shared a promotional video featuring software engineer Amanda Lin Dietz, showing how face movements can be used to control a Chromebook.
In addition to the new accessibility features, Google plans to release more than 20 new Chromebook models in 2025. These will include both standard and Chromebook Plus series devices. The announcement also mentioned the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus and the new 14-inch Lenovo Chromebook Plus 2-in-1 models introduced last October.
Google has also introduced a new set of ChromeOS features called Class Tools for students and teachers. With these features, teachers will be able to control their students’ screens in real time. There are also features for screen sharing, adding live captions and translations, and sending content directly to students’ screens.
Teachers can also assign online whiteboards to students and create collaborative spaces for group work through Figma’s FigJam platform integration. Google believes these features will enhance classroom interaction and make it easier for teachers to track their students’ progress.
What do you think about Google’s new accessibility and education-focused innovations for ChromeOS? Feel free to share your thoughts on controlling a computer with face movements!
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