Google (learn more) Says Some Android Apps Need Developer Tuning on Intel Googlebooks
Google has stated that a small number of complex Android apps and games require developer adjustments to operate seamlessly on the Intel versions of its new Googlebook laptops, which are now available in Britain, Ireland, France, and Germany. Three out of five models utilize Intel chips, which run Android through a translation layer, while the Dell and HP machines employ Arm chips and execute Android natively.
Key Takeaways:
- Intel Laptops: Three of five Googlebook models use Intel chips, requiring some apps to be fine-tuned.
- App Compatibility: A small handful of complex apps or games need special attention, according to Google.
- Translation Layer: Android runs on Intel laptops through a translation layer, similar to Chromebooks' approach.
- Performance Impact: Google previously noted that executing Arm code on x86 can impact performance and battery life.
- Pricing: Laptops start at $899 or £999, with Acer, ASUS, Lenovo, Dell, and HP as manufacturers.
Android Authority and Engadget reported these details, highlighting the unique aspect of Googlebook's design—running Android natively (except for Intel models) versus using containers like Chromebooks. This change aims to remove compatibility limits but introduces a translation layer for Intel versions.
Google assures that most apps work smoothly, and it is collaborating with developers, Intel, and Qualcomm to enhance cross-platform compatibility. However, no comprehensive list of incompatible apps has been published yet, as testing is still ongoing.
With ChromeOS slated to end in 2034, these laptops present a choice between Arm and Intel architectures for European buyers, starting at £999 and upwards, with varying specifications reported across countries.