Google ChromeOS M135 Launches in Stable Channel with Enhanced Mouse Support

ChromeOS M135 Update: A Blend of Accessibility and Enhanced Features

In the tech landscape, ChromeOS updates continuously evolve user experience. Following the release of Chrome 133 in February, which introduced innovative features like Bluetooth Microphone Super Resolution and the accessibility-enhancing feature, Bounce Keys, Google further refined these capabilities in March with M134. This version emphasized accessibility by adding Slow Keys and features such as Fast Pair for mice and Mouse Keys, alongside the notable integration of Gemini.

Now, the most recent update, ChromeOS M135, is available on the stable channel, bringing a host of intriguing enhancements that build upon previous versions.

Key Enhancements in M135

One significant upgrade is the introduction of the Android Bluetooth stack, known as Fluoride. Users on older hardware with ChromeOS Flex can expect this upgrade, which has been making its way to standard ChromeOS devices since version 122. According to Google, the transition aims to be smooth, ensuring that your previously paired Bluetooth devices remain connected without any difficulties. Should any issues arise, feedback can be submitted, or users can temporarily disable this feature through the Chrome settings with the flag chrome://flags/#bluetooth-use-floss.

Accessibility Features Enhanced

The M135 update continues to enhance the accessibility tools introduced in earlier releases. Specifically, there are notable improvements to the Face Control feature, which allows users to interact with their Chromebook using facial movements. Google has made it easier to know when Face Control is active by introducing a visible notification displaying “Face control active, ”along with a straightforward button to deactivate it. Users will also receive a prompt upon activation, enhancing the feature’s overall user-friendliness.

Additionally, the Mouse Keys feature, which debuted with M134, is carried over in this update, enabling users to navigate the mouse pointer through keyboard commands seamlessly.

Fast Pair and New Image Content Search

M135 retains the Fast Pair feature introduced in M134. When a compatible mouse is within proximity of your Chromebook, a prompt will appear, allowing you to connect with just a single click—simplifying the process of setting up peripherals.

Another exciting addition in M135 is the image content search capability. Instead of recalling specific filenames for photographs, users can now search for images by querying the content within the images directly from the Launcher, streamlining the search process significantly.

Update Rollout and Feedback

As with previous updates, Google is implementing M135 gradually over the coming days. Users experiencing difficulties with this version can reach out for support by reporting the issues here.

Stay tuned for these new features and improvements that promise to enhance the overall Chromebook experience, especially for those prioritizing accessibility and ease of use.

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