Googlebook OS Demo Shows Mac-Like Gestures on Android Foundation

Android Authority reported that the gestures include a three- or four-finger upward flick to bring up an overview of active apps. Users can also press the square-shaped key, which matches Android's multitasking navigation button, to open the same interface. Bohn's video touches on several gestures, many of which appear to draw from both macOS and Windows, according to the report.

Googlebook OS also supports multiple desktops similar to macOS, with a full-screen mode that hides the taskbar. Android Authority reported that the interface takes visual inspiration from ChromeOS but uses Android as its foundation. In addition to apps optimized for Android, Googlebook OS runs web-based interfaces as web apps.

The Googlebook arrived earlier this week, according to Android Authority. Google has already discussed several highlight features, including Magic Pointer, Rambler for efficient typing, and a Gemini-first approach that lets users customize the software package to their utility.

Android Authority said it spent limited time with the Googlebook and hopes to spend more when the laptops become more widely available next month. The publication also said it is leaning on Google to share more details about the interface. Bohn's video details how Googlebook OS handles app windowing and covers the various gestures.

Editor's Summary Google's Googlebook OS demo shows multitasking gestures and multiple desktops that echo macOS, while running on an Android foundation and supporting Android apps and web apps. The demonstration, posted by Googler Dieter Bohn, comes as the Googlebook arrives and wider laptop availability is expected next month.