Companies are still working on better connecting your phone with your computer. Google just announced a new way to do this in a short blog post. According to the post, Google just introduced an app streaming feature for ChromeOS.
This feature is still in the beta testing stage, so it won’t be available to the general populace. You will need to be a ChromeOS beta tester in order to use it. Also, since it is in beta, you should expect some general bugginess and instability, as Google is still working on it.
Google is testing an app streaming feature for ChromeOS
The feature itself is pretty straightforward, but in order to use it, you have to have Phone Hub enabled. Also, your phone will need to be running Android 13 or later. The blog post points to Pixel phones no older than the Pixel 4a. Also, it points to the Xiaomi 12T, 12T Pro, 13, and 13 Pro. The compatibility will expand as the test progresses.
When you have this feature enabled, you’ll be able to interact with certain smartphone apps and functions right from your ChromeOS device. You won’t be able to completely control your device from your Chromebook. So, you won’t be running full apps, changing settings, or other things.
We’re not sure about the full extent of this feature just yet. It’s still in testing, and more functionality should arrive as time goes on. The blog post refers to you being able to check your rideshare status, update your shopping list, and reply to conversations.
Having limited functionality might work in this feature’s favor. This seems more like a feature to give you access to just a few of your most used smartphone features. If you’re working, then this will help you avoid having to stop and unlock your phone just to access your messages.
This could just be a way to avoid distractions. If you are on the beta version of ChromeOS, you can enable this feature now. Check out this help article if you need assistance enabling it.