

The Chrome OS magnifier can now be controlled/panned with Ctrl + Alt and the arrow keys.The autocorrect UI has been improved with better visual feedback when a correction has been made, while there’s a new undo method.Instead of having to visit /drive/settings, Docs, Sheets, and Slides can be made available offline through the Files app.You can move between Virtual Desks by double or triple tapping the + shortcut.The Camera app now saves photos and videos to a new “Camera” folder in the My Files app.

Other specific changes in Chrome OS 88 include: To get started, sign in to a supported website like Dropbox, GitHub or Okta, and you’ll be prompted to switch to using WebAuthn for future sign-ins. Your on-device unlock method is never shared with the web service, while this can also be used for 2-Step Verification to replace security keys and phones.

On supported websites, WebAuthn allows your Chromebook PIN or fingerprint to be used in lieu of passwords. It activates “when your screen is idle,” with Google calling it a way to “beautify your space with a personalized lock screen.” We’re seeing the option live on a Pixelbook running version 88 under Chrome OS Settings > Personalization > Screen saver. The bottom edge of the screen notes battery, Wi-Fi status, and how many unread notifications you have. Meanwhile, Google will note any playing music in the top-right corner. The time is noted in the bottom-left, while the weather (condition and temperature) appears right beside it. Users can alternately choose “Featured photos” or “Earth and Space” galleries. This “Screen saver” can cycle through your Google Photos library, with the ability to select specific albums. The big feature of Chrome OS 88 turns your idle device into a very basic Smart Display. The Chrome OS screen saver lets you transform your Chromebook’s lock screen into a personalized smart display. There are a handful of usability enhancements in this release, which will be available over the coming days. Following the desktop update last week, Chrome OS 88 is beginning to roll out today.
