UPDATED 12:00 EDT / OCTOBER 23 2024

SECURITY

Google announces new AI-driven enhancements and security features for Chrome Enterprise and ChromeOS

Google LLC today announced several new features and improvements for Chrome Enterprise and ChromeOS that are focused on enhancing productivity, security and ease of management for enterprise users.

The announcements start at a new Enterprise Web Store for Extensions, a new store set to launch later his year that will allow enterprises to offer a curated web store experience for their employees. The store will allow business users to easily access a selection of recommended extensions tailored to their organization directly from the web store landing page to simplify extension management for information technology teams and improve productivity for end users.

The Enterprise Web Store also integrates with Google SecOps to provide enhanced visibility into extension activity. Security being key to the offering, the store includes risk scoring and telemetry integration to give IT administrators more control and insight into the security risks posed by various extensions.

Also new from Google today are artificial intelligence-driven improvements to the admin console for Chrome Enterprise and ChromeOS that are designed to simplify IT management and enhance productivity.

The new enhancements include AI-recommended policies, a feature that can suggest specific configurations tailored to an organization’s needs. The feature allows administrators to quickly implement recommended policies through a simple click for tasks such as setting homepages or managing extensions for specific user groups.

New admin console

Within the AI enhancements, Google is now offering a new admin console that includes natural language-powered search that allows IT teams to search for settings or policies using simple, everyday language. The feature makes it easier for admins to find the right controls and make adjustments efficiently.

IT administrators are also given more control over AI capabilities within their organizations with the new changes. Administrators can manage AI features on a granular level or apply broader policies across all AI functions, delivering greater flexibility in how AI is deployed and managed.

Third up today from Google is the announcement of the new Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus, a Chromebook that is claimed to be the thinnest and lightest device in the Chromebook Plus lineup. The new model features a dedicated Quick Insert key, which allows users to quickly access AI-powered productivity tools with a single press, making tasks like summarizing documents or generating content faster and more efficient.

The new Chromebook Plus is designed to take full advantage of Google’s latest AI features, including Help me read, Welcome Recap and Live Translate, providing users with tools to streamline their work.

Also from Google today was the announcement of several new security enhancements for Chrome Enterprise and ChromeOS that increase security protection for enterprise users.

The new security features include copy/paste control policies that allow administrators to restrict data transfers between approved and unapproved apps. The feature prevents sensitive data from being copied into unsanctioned applications and, in doing so, adds an extra layer of protection for company information.

Another new security feature, a new evidence locker, stores files and data for later investigation by security teams. The feature helps security teams investigate potential security incidents, helps organizations maintain compliance and addresses threats proactively.

Google is also rolling out screenshot protections. The service, currently in private beta testing and planned to be generally available in November, prevents unauthorized screenshots of sensitive information.

Lastly, ChromeOS also now offers a Safety Reset feature that allows devices to be rolled back to a previous, secure OS version without losing personal data. The feature ensures both device and data security are maintained without requiring a full reset.

“We’re committed to providing technology that’s built not only for today but also ready for what’s next,” Mark Berschadski, director of product management at Chrome Enterprise, and Naveen Viswanatha, director of product management at ChromeOS, wrote in a blog post. “We believe in empowering businesses with tools that help them navigate the evolving landscape of work, enabling them to achieve their goals and unlock new possibilities.”

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