Google releases Chrome OS 61 with new app launcher

Google has released a new version of Chrome OS with version number 61. It includes a new app launcher, which is similar to the launcher on Pixel phones. The other design of the operating system has also been adjusted in the new version.

For example, the release contains a renewed login and lock screen with a rounded avatar, Google reports. A second change is a custom power management menu, which contains, for example, settings for the idle state of a device. Other changes include improved window management and a different help menu.

According to Chrome Unboxed, the new launcher can still be turned off by searching the Chrome flags for ‘peeking launcher’. The launcher now initially shows five apps and a small search field, unlike the previous version where the Google search field took up a large part of the window. A blur effect is also part of the release, which makes the background less sharp in certain menus. This must still be enabled via a flag.

Google also publishes a list of devices that have not yet received the new update for unknown reasons. The company does not report when that will happen.

Image via Chrome Unboxed