The Verge’s Googlebook testing finds software rough at launch

The Verge’s early testing of Googlebooks points to software as the laptops’ main weakness. In a roundtable published by the outlet, reviewers say the five newly launched laptops have hardware ranging from “great to excellent,” while Googlebook OS feels unfinished.

Antonio G. Di Benedetto says he is testing the HP Googlebook 14, Lenovo Googlebook 15 and Acer Googlebook 14. He describes problems with Android apps, including Signal’s keyboard controls, and says windows cannot be dragged between virtual desktops. A “Clear All” control can close all apps at once.

David Pierce reports that streaming apps such as Netflix often open in full-screen, tablet-style layouts, and that keyboard and mouse support varies. Some apps are optimized for Googlebooks, but he says even those can behave awkwardly when their windows are resized. The reviewers also note that some Google apps, including YouTube and Messages, scale more naturally.

The article says Google is positioning Googlebooks as an Android-based alternative to Windows and Mac laptops, with deeper connections to Android phones. The Verge’s testers see potential in that approach, but argue that Google needs faster software development and better app support. These are the reviewers’ early impressions during active testing.