How to Install and Use Gemini on Your Chromebook

Key takeaways:

• Chromebook Plus devices come with Gemini pre-installed
• You can install Gemini as a PWA on any Chromebook model
• Access advanced AI features through Chrome browser extensions

Ever felt like your Chromebook could be smarter? I remember staring at my laptop screen, wishing it could help me brainstorm ideas or tackle complex tasks more efficiently.

That’s where Gemini comes in. This powerful AI assistant transforms how we interact with our Chromebooks, and I’m excited to show you exactly how to get it up and running.

What Makes Gemini Special on Chromebook

If you’re using a Chromebook device, you’re in luck. Gemini comes built right into your system, ready to roll straight from your app shelf.

But don’t worry if you have a different Chromebook model. I’ve got you covered too.

How to Install Gemini on Any Chromebook

Here’s the step-by-step process that worked for me:

1. Open Chrome browser
2. Navigate to gemini.google.com
3. Sign in with your Google account
4. Click the three-dot menu icon
5. Select “Save and share”
6. Click “Create shortcut”
7. Name it “Gemini”
8. Check “Open as window”
9. Hit “Create”

That’s it! You’ve just created a Progressive Web App (PWA) version of Gemini.

Quick Tips for Better Access

Want faster access? Here’s what I do:

• Pin the icon to your shelf by right-clicking and selecting “pin”
• Find it quickly in the App Launcher
• Use keyboard shortcuts for even speedier access

Supercharge Your Chrome Browser with Gemini

Want to take it further? Let’s add some extra features:

chrome://flags/#prompt-api-for-gemini-nano
chrome://flags/#optimization-guide-on-device-model

Just paste these URLs in your Chrome browser and enable them for experimental AI features.

What You Can Actually Do with Gemini

Here’s what makes me excited about using Gemini daily:

• Brainstorm creative ideas
• Plan trips and itineraries
• Get help with writing and editing
• Analyze images and documents
• Ask follow-up questions naturally

FAQ

How much storage space does Gemini take up?

Since it’s primarily a PWA, Gemini uses minimal storage space on your Chromebook – typically less than 1MB.

Does Gemini work offline?

No, you need an active internet connection to use Gemini as it processes requests through Google’s cloud servers.

Can I use Gemini with a school or work Google account?

Yes, but your institution’s administrator needs to enable the service first. You must also be 13 years or older (18+ for work accounts).

Will Gemini slow down my Chromebook?

Not significantly. Since it runs as a web app, it uses about the same resources as a typical Chrome browser tab.