Google is creating a new desktop app called Essentials that bundles many Google services, such as Messages and Photos, with links to download more. This program is included with many new Windows computers, the first from HP.
According to Google, the Essentials app lets you “discover and integrate many of our best Google services” and lets you browse Google Photos, send and receive Messages and Google in the app. The full list of apps has yet to be announced, but Google’s announcement art shows features including Google Sheets, Google Drive, Nearby Share and Google One (a two-month free trial will offered via Essentials for new subscribers).
HP will start adding Google Essentials to its PC brands, such as Envy, Pavilion, Omen and others. Google says you’re “in control of your experience” and can opt out of Essentials as a whole. It’s not yet clear if you can download the app on your current PC, or if you plan to code your Windows experience with Google (new Windows laptops).
Essentials also includes the Google Play Games app, which lets you download popular Android games like Clash of Clans to your computer. You can access, play and continue your progress on your Android device with compatible games via the Essentials app (aka the HP Omen Gaming Hub app).
Google says it will bring Essentials to other Windows PCs in the future. The Verge has requested additional information from HP and Google.
