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Googlebook Broadens Horizons Beyond Intel as Qualcomm and MediaTek Participate in AI Laptop Initiative

Google is now taking high-end hardware seriously with its new Googlebook.

Key information

  • Qualcomm has announced its collaboration with Google to create a range of Googlebook laptops.
  • Google is teaming up with Intel, Qualcomm, and MediaTek to provide manufacturers with greater versatility in future Googlebook products.
  • The upcoming Googlebooks are anticipated to accommodate more robust Android applications and premium hardware from brands like Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, and Lenovo.

The new Googlebook platform from Google is developing into much more than just a replacement for Chromebooks, and Qualcomm has recently validated a crucial element of this venture.

Qualcomm is introducing its Arm-based PC silicon to Google’s future laptop platform, after a long period during which Snapdragon X chips were largely associated with Windows laptops, as confirmed by Qualcomm CMO Don McGuire in a now-removed X post. Nevertheless, XDA quickly captured a screenshot of the announcement.

This indicates that upcoming Googlebook devices will no longer be restricted to Intel chips. Qualcomm also confirmed through its social media that it is working with Google to develop certain Googlebook models, although it did not specifically mention Snapdragon X chips.

Moreover, John Maletis, VP of Product Management for ChromeOS, disclosed collaborations with Intel, Qualcomm, and MediaTek during an interview with ChromeUnboxed.

Significant Android integration

This marks a substantial shift in Google’s laptop strategy. For over a decade, <a data-analytics-id="inline-link" href="https://www.androidcentral.com/best-chromebook" data-url="https://www.androidcentral.com/best-chromebook" data-hl-processed="none" data-mrf-recirculation="inline-link" data-before-rewrite

Google Plans to Limit Free Gmail Storage for New Accounts to 5GB

A recent update has surfaced concerning Google’s policy on storage for new users. Reports suggest that Google might be decreasing the free storage allocated to new accounts from 15GB to 5GB unless users associate a phone number. This alteration seems to be part of a trial in which users who submit a phone number during registration can still receive the full 15GB of storage. The modification was initially spotted by a Reddit user who found that without linking a phone number, only 5GB of complimentary storage was accessible.

Google has refreshed its support webpage to incorporate this possible change, modifying the phrase from “15GB free” to “up to 15GB” of complimentary storage. This action corresponds with Google’s requirement for phone numbers during account setup, which is generally utilized to authenticate user identity and deter the abuse of free storage provisions.

Although Google has not officially validated this modification, the revision in storage policy might be a tactic to motivate more users to link their phone numbers, thereby ensuring that the free storage perk is granted only once per individual. This shift also occurs at a moment when Google has amplified storage for paying Google AI Pro users to 5TB, indicating a transition towards monetizing storage services.

The decrease in free storage could be perceived as an effort to prompt users to choose paid storage plans, though it may also serve as a strategy to limit the misuse of free storage and the establishment of bot accounts. At this point, it is unclear how this change will be enacted across all new accounts and if it will establish itself as a permanent policy.

Current Offers: M5 MacBook Pro Beginning at $1,499, 16-inch M5 Pro Reduced by $250, iPhone 16e Available from $449, and Additional Promotions

### Current Promotions on Apple Merchandise: An In-Depth Summary

As of now, Amazon is featuring a variety of notable reductions on different Apple items, making this a prime moment for shoppers to think about upgrading their gadgets. This article outlines some of the top offers available, including the freshly launched MacBook Neo, the M5 MacBook Pro, iPhone 16e, and more.

#### MacBook Neo Offers

Amazon has rolled out attractive pricing on the MacBook Neo, with multiple configurations available at lowered rates:

– **MacBook Neo Citrus 256GB**: $590 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Citrus 512GB**: $690 (Delivery by Friday)
– **MacBook Neo Silver 256GB**: $590 (Delivery by Friday)
– **MacBook Neo Silver 512GB**: $690 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Indigo 256GB**: $590 (Delivery by tomorrow)
– **MacBook Neo Indigo 512GB**: $690 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Blush 256GB**: $590 (Delivery in 2 days)
– **MacBook Neo Blush 512GB**: $690 (Delivery by tomorrow)

These prices indicate a $10 reduction on each variant, making them a compelling choice for anyone seeking a new laptop.

#### M5 MacBook Pro

The cheapest M5 MacBook Pro is now up for grabs at $1,499, reflecting a $300 discount from its launch price. This model boasts a 14-inch display, 16GB of RAM, and 1TB of storage. This price matches the lowest documented on Amazon, significantly less than its initial catalog price of $1,799.

Moreover, there are price cuts on additional M5 Pro models, including:

– **16-inch M5 Pro MacBook Pro**: $249 off
– **48GB M5 Pro MacBook Pro**: $300 off

These offers present fantastic value for anyone aiming to invest in high-performance laptops.

#### iPhone 16e Discount

For those in search of a cost-effective smartphone, Amazon has a promotion on the **iPhone 16e**, starting at **$449**. This refurbished model features 256GB of storage and is sold directly by Amazon, guaranteeing quality and dependability. The iPhone 16e is a great option for casual users or as a secondary phone.

#### iPad Pro Magic Keyboard

Apple’s **13-inch iPad Pro Magic Keyboard** is also discounted, with a 25% reduction lowering the price to **$262.50**. This keyboard is compatible with both M4 and M5 iPad Pro models and is recognized for its stylish design and functionality, making it a valuable investment for iPad owners.

#### Apple Watch Series 11

The **Apple Watch Series 11** is experiencing a price cut as well, with the 46mm GPS + Cell model priced at **$399**, a decrease of $130. This offer stands as one of the best prices noted for this model, representing a fantastic opportunity for those looking to buy a smartwatch.

#### Accessories and Charging Offers

In addition to the aforementioned items, Amazon is offering the **Apple iPhone Air MagSafe Battery** at a notable discount, now available for **$59.99**, nearly 40% off its standard price. This accessory is engineered to enhance the iPhone Air’s sleek look while extending battery life.

### Conclusion

With these considerable discounts on various Apple merchandise, now is an ideal time for consumers to contemplate making a purchase. Whether you’re searching for a new laptop, smartphone, tablet accessory, or smartwatch, these deals offer exceptional value and quality from a trusted vendor.

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