This guide will walk you through some of the most common methods for copying and pasting content on your Chromebook.

Using Keyboard Shortcuts on a Chromebook

Chromebook keyboards typically have a similar interface to what you would find on a Windows device. The shortcuts work in, more or less, the same way, and for most people transitioning from a Windows laptop or PC, the difference wouldn’t be noticeable. However, for users coming from macOS, here are some keys that can be used interchangeably.

1. Command (⌘) on Mac serves as Control (Ctrl) on ChromeOS.
2. Option (⌥) on Mac serves as Alternate (alt) on ChromeOS.

Copy and Paste Text on a Chromebook

To copy text on a Chromebook, first highlight the desired portion. There are two ways to highlight the text you want to copy on a Chromebook:

• Using the mouse:
  1. Click and hold the left mouse button.
  2. While holding, drag the cursor across the text you want to copy.
  3. The selected text will be highlighted in blue.

• Using the keyboard:
  1. Click at the beginning of the text you want to copy.
  2. Use the arrow keys on your keyboard to select the desired portion.
  3. If you want to select an entire portion, press Ctrl + A.
     Selecting Text on a Chromebook

READ MORE:

1. Keyboard Shortcuts

Once the text is selected, you can simply use the keyboard shortcuts to manipulate (cut, copy, paste) your data.

1. Copy Text:
   • Press the Ctrl and C keys simultaneously (Ctrl + C). This is the most common way to copy text across different operating systems.
2. Paste Text:
   • Press Ctrl + V simultaneously.
   • To paste the text without formatting, press Ctrl + Shift + V.

READ MORE: How to Use Chromebook Function Keys ➜

2. Shortcut Menu

Alternatively, you can use the shortcut menu to copy and paste data if you are uncomfortable using the keyboard shortcuts.

1. Copying Text:
   1. Right-click on the highlighted text.
   2. From the menu, select “Copy”.
   3. On a laptop, simultaneously tap the trackpad with two fingers to right-click.
      Opening the Shortcut Menu using the Trackpad
2. Pasting Text:
   1. Right-click at the location where you want to paste the text.
   2. Select “Paste” from the menu.
      Copy (Red) and Paste (Green) using the Shortcut Menu

READ MORE: How to Run Windows Software on a Chromebook ➜

The Multi-Paste — Copy Multiple Items at Once

The newer versions of ChromeOS have introduced a “multi-paste” feature, allowing you to copy up to five items, like text or images, to your clipboard simultaneously. To access this feature, locate the “Search” button on your keyboard. This is typically positioned where the Caps Lock key would be on a Windows keyboard.

1. Locate the “Search” button on your keyboard, typically positioned where the Caps Lock key would be on a Windows keyboard.
2. Copy five pieces of text or images as you normally would.
3. While pasting, hold down the “Search” key and simultaneously press “V”.
4. This will open the clipboard, displaying the last five items you copied.

READ MORE: How to Play Fortnite on Chromebook in 2024 [3 Easy Ways] ➜

Copy and Paste Images on a Chromebook

To copy and paste any image, the process is more or less the same. Here are two options to copy and then paste any image you want.

Copying the Image

1. Using the Mouse:
   1. Locate the image you want to copy.
   2. Right-click on the image.
   3. Select “Copy image” from the menu.
2. Using the Keyboard Shortcut:
   1. Locate the image you want to copy.
   2. Hold down the “Alt” key on your keyboard.
   3. Click on the image with your trackpad while still holding “Alt”.

      

   4. A menu will appear.
   5. Select “Copy image” from the menu.

      

READ MORE:10 Awesome Chrome OS Keyboard Shortcuts You Need to Know ➜

Pasting the Image

• Using the Mouse:
  1. Navigate to the location where you want to paste the image.
  2. Right-click on the desired location.
  3. Select “Paste image” from the menu.
• Using the Keyboard Shortcut:
  1. Navigate to the location where you want to paste the image.
  2. Press “Ctrl + V” simultaneously.

READ MORE: How to Find & Use the Instagram Clipboard on Android & iOS ➜

Conclusion

While the ChromeOS keyboard layout is mainly similar to a Windows keyboard, including key placement and keyboard shortcuts, users switching from other operating systems might need help to adapt to the new layout. However, this guide is everything you need to copy and paste data on your Chromebook easily.

The post How to Copy and Paste on a Chromebook in 2024 [2 Easy Ways] appeared first on Appuals.

Now, picture a tool that’s like magic—it helps you effortlessly capture and save all the cool stuff you’re doing on your Chromebook. In this post, let’s delve deep into the steps to screen record on your Chromebook.

What is Screen Recording?

Screen recording is like making a video of everything happening on your computer or device screen. It’s a way to capture and save what you see and do on your screen, similar to taking a video of your digital activities.

• Remember Fun Times: Record cool moments from video calls, online events, or anything you do digitally for future memories.
• Help Others: Make videos to show solutions to common problems. It makes it simple for others to understand and follow your instructions.
• Show Your Cool Moments: Easily share your great gaming skills, computer talents, or anything exciting on your Chromebook with your friends and family.

READ MORE: How to Record FaceTime with Audio on iPhone & Mac ➜

How to Screen Record on Chromebook

There are several ways to screen record on your Chromebook. Check out the methods we’ve gathered below.

1. Screen Record on Chromebook Using Screen Capture

Your Chromebook boasts a handy tool known as the Screen Capture feature, making screen recording a breeze. Here’s a straightforward guide to using it:

1. Open the app or screen you wish to record.

2. Head to the Quick Settings menu located at the bottom-right corner of your screen.

3. Select Screen Capture from the Quick Settings menu.

   

4. A new bottom bar menu appears. Initially set to screenshot mode, click the video icon to switch to screen recording.

   

5. Choose your recording preference:

   1. Full-screen: Records everything on your entire screen.

   2. Partial: Allows you to select a specific area for recording.

   3. Active Window: Captures only the currently active window.

6. Click the Record button to kickstart your screen recording. Execute the actions you want to capture, then click the stop icon in the taskbar to conclude the recording.

7. For a voiceover, click the Settings icon. Turn on the Microphone under Audio input and explore options like adding your webcam view, and displaying clicks, and keystrokes.

   

You can find your saved screen recording in a WEBM format within the Downloads folder in the Files app.

2. Screen Record on Chromebook Using Screencast

Screencast app, a gem included in ChromeOS Version 103, offers a dynamic approach to screen recording. This app brings a trifecta of features, allowing you to record your screen, capture audio from your microphone, and simultaneously grab video from your webcam.

Plus, it throws in a nifty marker tool, letting you draw and annotate directly on your screen while recording. Here’s how you can use the Screencast app to record your screen on a Chromebook.

1. On a Chromebook running Chrome OS 103 or later, open the App Drawer, search for and open the Screencast app.

   

2. Now, select the New Screencast button, found at the top-left corner to start screen recording on your Chromebook.

   

3. You can choose to record the full-screen area, window, or partial area. Decide whether to include microphone audio and webcam video. These options are on by default and can be adjusted in the Settings icon at the bottom.

4. Tap the red icon on the shelf to commence the screen recording. Explore tools by clicking the Pen icon for annotations and relocate the webcam view to your preferred corner.

5. When your recording is complete, hit the red Stop button on the Chrome OS Shelf.

   

6. Locate your recording within the Screencast app. Click Share to generate a shareable link. Keep in mind that Screencast doesn’t save the video locally.

   

READ MORE: How to Play Fortnite on Chromebook in 2023 [Working] ➜

3. Record Screen on Chromebook with Device Audio

While ChromeOS’s built-in methods for screen recording are excellent for most users, those desiring to capture device audio may explore third-party alternatives.

A prime example is the Nimbus Screen Recorder, among the top Chrome extensions available for this purpose. Here’s a step-by-step guide on using Nimbus Screen Recorder or a similar alternative:

1. Begin by navigating to the Chrome Web Store and installing the Nimbus Screen Recorder tool.

2. Once installed, launch the newly added extension from the extension toolbar and select the Record Video option.

   

3. In the dropdown menu, choose Tab at the bottom and enable Record Tab Sound. This setting ensures the internal recording of audio specifically for Chrome Tabs, excluding other applications.

   

4. With the configuration complete, click on Start Record, and you’re all set. Now, you can record your Chromebook screen with device audio using this Chrome extension.

READ MORE: The Best Dark Mode Extensions For Browsers ➜

Conclusion

Recording your Chromebook screen is easy—you can use the built-in options or go for a third-party choice, depending on what you need. You can add notes, include your webcam, and even capture the sound from your device.

So, whether you go for the simple Screen Capture, the flexible Screencast, or the extra audio features of Nimbus Screen Recorder, recording your Chromebook screen lets you be creative, share things easily, and have a more enjoyable digital experience.

The post How to Screen Record on A Chromebook [3 Different Ways] appeared first on Appuals.

Why Do You Need to Change Your Chromebook Password?

There could be tons of scenarios that would require you to change the password on your Chromebook, such as:

• You fear that someone else knows your password and could log in to your Chromebook when you aren’t around.
• Your password is too easy to guess, and you want to change it to a stronger one.
• Remembering different passwords is challenging, and you want to match it to the password of another account or device.
• Some people prefer to change their device passwords regularly as a security measure.

How to Change Your Chromebook Password?

Since Chromebook doesn’t have a dedicated password, changing the password of your Google account will also change your Chromebook’s password. Thus, you can change it on any device. Here’s how:

Step 1: Open Google Account Settings

We recommend using Google Chrome since your Google account is already logged in here, and opening settings won’t be much of a hassle. Open Chrome, and in the top-right, click on your profile picture. You’ll see some options, one of which is Manage Your Account. Click on it.

Step 2: Open Security Settings

Once your Google account’s settings page opens, click on Security in the menu on your left. Open it and scroll down to find the section that says How you sign in to Google. Here you have some options like 2-Step Verification, Passkeys, Passwords, and others. Click on Password.

Step 3: Verify Your Identity

Changing the password is a big deal, so Google asks you to sign in again using the available options before it can let you change the password to a new one. You can either verify your identity through another device you’re logged into, or choose to enter the current password.

Step 4: Set Up a New Password

You’ll now be taken to a page where you can set up the new password. Remember to choose a unique and strong password that you don’t use for other accounts. Once done, click on Change Password.

How Can I Improve My Login Security?

If you’re too worried about your account security or someone hacking your account, you can use some additional security measures:

• Use a Strong Password: Always use a password that’s not easy to guess. Choose a password that’s a unique combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.
• Enable 2-Step Verification: If you can’t remember complex passwords, an easy alternative is to use 2-Step Verification or Two-Factor Authentication. This makes sure that just knowing the password isn’t enough to get into your account.
• Use Different Passwords for Different Accounts: If you have a habit of using the same password for different accounts, it could be disastrous because if a hacker gets hold of one of your passwords, it would compromise all of your other accounts as well.
• Regularly Change Your Password: Regularly changing your password makes it less likely for others to gain unauthorized access to your account.

READ MORE: How to Protect & Hide Your Browser Fingerprint ➜

Bonus: How to Change Your Chromebook PIN?

You can also easily change the PIN of your Chromebook by accessing its settings:

1. Open Settings on your Chromebook and go to Security and Privacy. Click on Lock screen and sign-in.

   

2. Before you can change the PIN, you’ll have to enter your password.

   

3. Under Sign-in, you’ll see PIN. In front of it, there’s a Change PIN button. Click on it.

   

4. Enter the new PIN and click on Continue.

   

Images sourced from Android Police.

READ MORE: 10 Awesome Chrome OS Keyboard Shortcuts You Should Know ➜

Final Thoughts

Cybercrimes are on the rise these days. It’s up to us to stay vigilant and ensure practices that protect our accounts from getting hacked. If you face any problem regarding your Google account, look for solutions online and act swiftly. If nothing materializes, you can always contact Google for further support.

The post How to Change Your Chromebook Password in 4 Easy Steps appeared first on Appuals.

Before diving into more complex troubleshooting steps, ensure your Chromebook is indeed powered on. A simple check is to look for any status lights that indicate power. If the screen is black, it could be that your device is asleep or turned off due to inactivity or battery-saving settings. Briefly press the power button to wake it up or hold it for a restart if you suspect it has shut down unexpectedly.

Inspect your charger and power connection. If there’s no charging light when your Chromebook is plugged in, try using a different charger if one is available. Incompatible or faulty chargers can cause power issues that may result in a black screen. Always ensure the charger is the one provided with your Chromebook or an approved replacement from the manufacturer.

If your Chromebook has been exposed to high temperatures, it could be protecting itself with an automatic shutdown. Move your device to a cooler environment and allow it to cool down before attempting to power it on again. This can resolve issues of the device overheating, which might also manifest as a black screen.

Be cautious with experimental features in Chrome Flags, as these can sometimes cause display issues. If you have previously enabled any flags, try resetting them to default by typing chrome://flags into the address bar and clicking on ‘Reset all to default’. This can reverse any settings that may be causing the black screen problem.

In rare cases, the machine displays a boot loop. Some people encounter a black screen after logging into the system, while others experience it during boot. Before you begin, press the brightness-up key; this could potentially resolve the issue. A black screen may appear on the Chromebook if the brightness is too low.

Important Note: If your Chromebook is under warranty, it’s highly recommended that you simply take the Chromebook back to the manufacturer and claim your warranty instead of trying anything before hand and getting your warranty revoked.

Further Troubleshooting Techniques:

1. Switch the Chromebook to Tablet Mode

Sometimes reinitializing the display modules by switching to tablet mode can resolve black screen issues.

1. Flip the CB’s hinge over the screen. See if the screen turns on.

   

2. If so, switch it to regular mode and verify if the problem is solved.

2. Try Different Restart Methods

Various restart methods can remedy a black screen caused by a failed boot or power issue. Note that some of these methods may affect your local data.

Please note, some methods may delete data in the Downloads folder. If any essential files are stored there, backup or check their availability in an alternate location.

Press and Hold the Power Button

1. Press and hold the power button of the Chromebook.

   

2. Wait for 30 seconds and see if the CB turns on.
3. If not, release the button and press the power button again. Check if the Chromebook boots and does not get stuck on the black screen.

Use the Power and Refresh Keys

1. Press the power button on the Chromebook and wait till its lights are off.
2. Press/hold the Refresh and Power buttons.

   

3. Once the machine boots, release Refresh and then release the power button.
4. If the CB does not boot, press the power button again and see if it powers on correctly without getting stuck on the black screen.

Use the Power, ESC, and Refresh Keys

1. Press and hold the power button.
2. While holding the power button, tap on the ESC key and then on the Refresh key.

   

3. If the machine boots, keep on holding the power button till the CB turns off.
4. Tap on the power button and see if it is working correctly.

Use the Ctrl and D keys

1. Press and hold the following keys:

   ESC
   
   Refresh
   
   Power

2. Release keys and hit Ctrl + D.

   

3. Hit the Enter key twice and see if the problem is solved.

Power on the Chromebook After Plugging it in

1. Connect the charger to the Chromebook and press/hold the following keys:

   Power
   
   Refresh

2. While holding these keys, unplug the power adapter and wait for a minute.

   

3. Release the keys and wait for a minute.
4. Press the Power button and verify if the CB has powered on without showing the black screen.

Try the Ctrl + Shift + Q Keys

1. Press the Ctrl + Shift + Q keys and hold the power button.

   

2. Wait till the machine powers on and the black screen is no longer shown. 

Restart the Chromebook After Charging it

1. Put the Chromebook on charging and wait for 30 minutes.
2. Flip the lid down and up.

   

3. Press the power button and see if turns on without showing the black screen.
4. If not, put the Chromebook on charging overnight, and the next morning, power on the Chromebook. Check if the issue is fixed.

Advanced Troubleshooting:

3. Update the Chromebook’s OS

If your Chromebook’s OS is outdated, it could lead to incompatibility with some applications or services, which may manifest as a black screen issue. To remedy this, an OS update is necessary to address any potential bugs.

Important: Before you start this process, if your Chromebook’s screen is not displaying anything, you will need to connect it to an external monitor to follow the steps below. Once connected, you can toggle mirroring by pressing the CTRL + Full Screen keys.

1. Click on Time in the bottom right and go to Settings > About Chrome OS.
2. Select Check for Updates and install the available updates.

   

3. Restart the device and see if the built-in screen is no longer black.

4. Uninstall the Conflicting App

If certain apps, like Facebook Messenger, are causing issues, uninstall them. This may require an additional monitor for visibility.

1. Open the Launcher and right-click on the Facebook Messenger.

   

2. Select Uninstall and confirm to uninstall the app.
3. Restart the device and see if the issue is resolved.

5. Disconnect the Chromebook’s Battery

A hardware reset by disconnecting the battery can solve persistent issues. Caution: Only perform this if you have the necessary expertise or seek professional help.

1. Remove the charging cable from the Chromebook.
2. Place the Chromebook upside down and remove the screws from the back.
3. Flip the Chromebook and dislodge its keyboard.
4. Disconnect the keyboard from the motherboard and disconnect the battery’s power cable from the motherboard.

   

5. Press and hold the power button for a minute.
6. Without connecting the battery, plug the charger and press the power button. Check if the Chromebook turns on without showing the black screen issue.
7. If so, power off the device and unplug the charger.
8. Connect back the battery and keyboard.
9. Flip the Chromebook and tighten the screws on the back.
10. Flip the device and power it on. See if it is working correctly.

6. Reseat the Graphics Cable of the Chromebook

A loose graphics cable can cause display issues. Warning: Handle internal components with care or seek assistance.

1. Open the Chromebook and disconnect its keyboard/battery. These steps are covered in the above solution.
2. Disconnect the graphics cable from the motherboard (near the fan) and plug back the cable.

   

3. Make sure it is correctly seated and connect the battery/keyboard.
4. Close the Chromebook and power it on. Check if it is operating properly.

Last Resorts:

7. Clean the Internals of the Chromebook

Dust or debris can cause short circuits. Use compressed air to clean inside, but only if you are confident in opening up your device.

Only try this method if you have the tools and skills to perform these actions.

1. Open the Chromebook and disconnect its keyboard/battery (as discussed above).
2. Grab a Compressed Air Can and use it to blow air on the motherboard.

   

3. Make sure the device’s internals/externals are clean and connect the battery/keyboard.
4. Reseat all the components and cables.
5. Close the Chromebook and power it on. See if it is clear of the black screen problem.

8. Factory Reset the Chromebook Through Recovery

As a last resort, use a recovery USB drive to factory reset your Chromebook. This will erase all local data.

1. Disconnect all the peripherals from the Chromebook and press/hold the following buttons:

   ESC 
   
   Refresh

2. Press the Power button and when the screen shows a message, release the keys.
3. Insert a USB flash drive into your Windows or Mac system. Make sure the drive is empty and does not have any data.
4. Launch Chrome and Install Recovery Extension.
5. Open the Recovery Extension and click on Get Started.

   

6. Follow the on-screen prompts to create a recovery disk.
7. When you get the message that the recovery media is ready, remove the USB from the system.
8. Insert the USB into the Chromebook and select Recover Using External Disk.

   

9. Follow the prompts on the screen and once the recovery is done, update the Chromebook. Hopefully, this will clear the issue.

If you want to disable any future recurrence of the issue, check the sleep and screen saver settings of the Chromebook. You may even revert them to the defaults.

If the issue continues despite trying all the above solutions, it may be hardware-related. Have it inspected. If your Chromebook is under warranty, you can request a replacement from Google Support.

Remember, while a black screen can be concerning, often there is a simple explanation and solution. Don’t panic, follow these steps methodically, and more often than not, you’ll find the issue is resolvable. If you’ve gone through these steps and your screen is still black, it may be time to seek professional help or contact the Chromebook’s manufacturer if your device is under warranty.

The post How to Fix a Black Screen on Your Chromebook appeared first on Appuals.

How Does Crosh Work?

Using Crosh is relatively simple, but you should have the relevant knowledge on how to use it. Like any other terminal, Crosh responds to commands entered by the user. These commands are associated with functions that the system will perform once the command has been input by the user.

Therefore, one must have a proper hold over the commands and what functions they perform. And that is exactly what this guide is here for; to provide you with the most used and helpful commands, along with functions that they will perform.

How To Launch Crosh

To start up Crosh, simply press Ctrl+Alt+T on your Chromebook or ChromeOS device. Crosh will launch on a Google Chrome tab.

Crosh Commands and Their Functions

Let’s take a look at the different Crosh commands that can help you get the most out of your device. Each command in the following table has a description next to it so you can find one you like and try it right away!

Commands	Functions
help	Outputs a small list of simple and indispensable commands
help [command]	States the command's function
help_advanced	Displays a list of all the commands
battery_test [test length (in seconds)]	Performs a test to measure the the battery discharge rate. Also displays information about the battery of the device.
connectivity	Displays connection status and other relevant details
Ctrl+C	This is not a command. In case you ever find yourself running a command that is taking too long, press these keys to abort that process safely.
exit	Closes Crosh
memory_test	Performs a test on the available memory
modem help	Configure a connected modem
network_diag	Runs a network diagnostic test and saves it in text file
ping [website]	Checks how to fast traffic is travelling from your device to the desired website and watches for packet losses. Crucial for diagnosing network issues and network troubleshooting,
rollback	This will rollback your device to previous ChromeOS updates, Be warned that this will powerwash your device.
set_time	Configure your device's time manually
shell	Starts up shell. This is intended for developers only and has much more advanced commands, therefore, it should be used with the utmost care.
shell_history	Displays a list of commands that you ran previously on Crosh
storage_status	Displays storage health, vendor attributes and error logs
storage_test_1	Performs a short offline SMART test
storage_test_2	Performs an extensive readability test
sudo dump_vpd_log –full –stdout	Displays your device's UUID, time zone, IMEI, language, region, model, keyboard layout and serial number.
top	Similar to Task Manager in Windows. Displays the processes and applications running in the background along with their usage in terms of memory.
uptime	Displays how long the system has been running and how many users logged in during that time

Ready to Crosh Safely?

These commands are basic and serve as a preliminary before setting foot inside Crosh. However, one is better safe than sorry, hence, take care to make backups before tinkering around in Crosh and always consult the Internet before experimenting a command that you are unable to make sense of. Now, enjoy tweaking your Chromebook and troubleshooting through Crosh.

The post 20 Essential Crosh Commands Every ChromeOS User Should Know appeared first on Appuals.

If you regularly use multiple applications in parallel, Chromebook’s split-screen feature can be of great assistance. It enables you to do your work in a more effective manner and produces superior outcomes with fewer interruptions.

There are several different ways to use this function effectively on Chromebook. We’ll go through each of them below. 

1. Use the ‘Show Windows’ key

The ‘Show Windows’ key is located at the F5 position and resembles a rectangle with two horizontal lines on the right. You can use this key to show all the currently active windows and arrange them according to your needs.

Here’s how to split your Chromebook screen by using the ‘Show Windows‘ key:

1. Open any applications that you want to use in your split-screen.
2. Hold the button (Show Windows).

   

3. Drop one of the apps where it says “Drag here to use split-screen”.

   

2. Drag and drop via mouse

The easiest way to split the screen on a Chromebook is to drag and drop the windows to the right or left side of the screen, without using any shortcut keys. This might prove a bit tricky if you’re using a touchpad, so our recommendation is to use this method if you use a mouse. 

Here’s how to achieve split screen by dragging and dropping:

1. Open any applications that you want to use during split-screen.
2. Click and hold the menu bar.
3. Move the window to the left or right side of the screen by dragging it.

   

4. As soon as you release the mouse button, the window should snap to the desired side of the display.

3. Use Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts are the quickest way to split the screen if you are comfortable with macros. The process is as simple as holding down the “Alt” key and then choosing between the “[“ or “]” key.

If you press Alt + left bracket key at the same time, the window will shift to the left, while pressing Alt + right bracket key, the window will shift to the right.

Note: Clicking on either of these buttons will open a new window or modify the size of the currently active one.

4. Use the Maximize / Restore Down Button

Another way to use the split-screen feature on your Chromebook is to use the Maximize / Restore Down Button.

The main function of this button is to return the window to its default state (either minimize or maximize it), but you can also use it to achieve a split-screen scenario. 

Here are the steps that you need to follow:

1. Start by opening any two applications that you want to use during split-screen.
2. Click and hold the Maximize/Restore button of one of the applications.
    

   

   Note: The ‘Restore Down’ button is located in the upper right corner of the screen between the close and minimize buttons.

3. After you press the button, you’ll notice two arrows on the left and right sides of it. While keeping the button pressed, move your cursor to the left or right section of the screen to have the app snap into place. 

   

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 with the second application to achieve a split screen. 

Reasons why split-screen might not work on your Chromebook

If none of the methods above work for you keep in mind that not all ChromeOS versions feature the split-screen functionality.

If you are using an older device model that’s not updated to the latest ChromeOS version, this feature is most likely unavailable.

To find out whether or not the split-screen feature is available on your Chromebook go to Settings > Device > Display & Sound > Display and search for the “split-screen” option.

However, even if your Chromebook supports the split-screen option, it may occasionally experience some difficulties with this feature.

Here are a few reasons why you might be unable to achieve a split screen on your Chromebook:

• Your Chromebook might be in tablet mode. 
• The split-screen shortcut (Ctrl+Alt) is disabled.  
• You mistakenly pressed the maximize button on the window you wish to use for your split-screen. 

The post Split Screen on a Chromebook: A Step-by-Step Quick Guide appeared first on Appuals.

Chromebooks are often considered less expensive, faster, and safer than laptops, for example, and can be a great, portable preference for day-to-day work and general office use. Meanwhile, modern laptops have more processing power and can run various business and entertainment applications.

In this article, we’ll compare the Chromebook and the laptop, highlighting key differences and offering advice from experts to help you make an informed choice.

What is Chromebook?

The Chromebook is a relatively new type of laptop that runs on the Linux-based Chrome OS operating system created by Google, and they were originally meant for online-only use. Since Chrome was created as an online-only device that does most of its work in the cloud, it fulfills its primary functions and is essentially mobile. With new updates, it can now be used offline.

It’s just a standard laptop with fewer extras. They’re quite light, much like Ultrabooks, and don’t need a powerful computer or a lot of memory. They rely heavily on the internet and Google’s apps and services instead; web apps help fill the gap left by offline ones. A Chromebook, in its simplest definition, is a cheap laptop that uses Google’s Chrome OS instead of Microsoft Windows or Mac OS.

What is Laptop?

A laptop is a smaller, more portable personal computer. It can be as powerful as a full-size desktop computer while being far more portable. It’s a computer with a built-in keyboard, touchpad/trackpad, sometimes a trackball (technically a mouse) and runs on a battery. In contrast to Chromebooks, laptops generally run Windows or MacOS, and can be configured to run Linux.

It can perform all the same tasks as a regular computer and utilize all the same programs. However, laptops of the same stature are more expensive than their desktop counterparts, generally. They are made to be energy efficient, and they can be powered by standard electrical outlets or rechargeable batteries (Li-ion, Ni-MH, etc.).

Differences between a Chromebook and a Laptop

Here are some basic and important differences between these two devices explained in detail:

Operating System

If you’re familiar with Chrome, you’ll feel right at home with Chrome OS, the operating system that powers Chromebooks. In earlier Chromebook models, you had to be online to use the web apps, but this is no longer the case.

Since 2018, Chrome OS allows Android apps, Linux programs, and offline document editing, expanding the capabilities of Chromebooks even when they don’t have access to the internet. Since Chrome OS is a minimal operating system, it boots up quickly, so you can immediately begin using the internet and working on your next project.

On the other hand, laptops use Windows or Mac OS. They are used for every kind of work and support thousands of online and offline programs and apps. The latest Windows laptops and MacBooks are far more powerful than any Chromebook, and they’re generally used for resource-intensive tasks that a simple Chromebook cannot do.

Pricing

For the same reason that they don’t have as many bulky, expensive parts, Chromebooks can be had for much less money (in the hundreds instead of the thousands) and can be carried around more easily. Since most K-12 and university students don’t require scorching technical specs to do most of their work, this has turned them into a popular choice for schools that provide laptops to students.

The exception to this is students majoring in design, film, or engineering who need intensive design, video editing, or CAD software. They can’t rely on Chromebooks, so laptops are their first choice. Laptops are more expensive than Chromebooks, and the reason is obvious (bigger storage devices, beefier processors, more RAM, etc.).

Most Chromebooks cost between $300 and $600, with decent options averaging around the $400 mark. Cheaper and more expensive Chromebooks do exist, but neither of those two extremes make sense. Traditional laptops are costlier, you should expect to pay at least $700 to get a good Windows laptop, and about $900 for a new MacBook Air. Though, both of those options would blow any Chromebook out the water.

Software Availability

The availability of software is another significant distinction between Chromebooks and conventional laptops. Each device has a vastly varied set of apps due to its operating system. Chromebooks can’t compete with Windows and macOS because of the extensive software ecosystems they support.

Make sure that the program you want (Photoshop, AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, etc.) is compatible with the operating system you intend to use before you buy it. If you don’t research, you can be let down by the device’s incompatibility with your preferred apps.

Portability

Chromebooks can be significantly more portable than traditional laptops due to their lightweight and small form factor. Because of this, they are a great option for people who routinely commute long distances or go on business trips away from home.

However, ultra-thin notebooks such as MacBook Air and the Dell XPS 13 make even the smallest Chromebook seem cumbersome, given their under-the-hood power. A laptop computer is the most convenient choice if you frequently travel from place to place and you require to run heavy programs.

Performance

It’s important to put the performance in context. The specifications, workload, and other factors contribute to how well a system functions. Chromebooks always outperform Windows laptops and Macbooks when all three have identical specifications (at least for most tasks). Chrome OS is a very lightweight OS that doesn’t require a lot of resources to function normally.

Actual performance, though, is something you won’t find in a Chromebook. Windows and macOS notebooks can be fully configured with all the required hardware to run any task you can throw at them. A standard laptop can deliver a lot more raw power if you’re ready to shell out more money. Furthermore, they work with sophisticated programs.

Storage space

Chromebooks typically feature between 16 to 64GB of local storage capacity, less than most laptops. This is because Chromebooks rely less on local storage and more on cloud storage (specifically, Google Drive) than other laptops. ChromeOS doesn’t require a lot of space because most apps are web-based and not installed locally on the laptop.

Files such as text documents, images, and audio recordings are not kept locally but rather uploaded to the cloud storage service Google Drive. If your Chromebook gets lost or stolen, your data will still be protected in the cloud.

Alternatively, most laptops these days come with at least 256 GB of SSD capacity, and some even have as much as one terabyte as their starting option. There is the option to save files locally on the hard drive or to save them online in a cloud storage service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive, so you have the flexibility to choose, unlike on a Chromebook where you will most likely be limited to only the cloud.

Security

Chromebooks excel in security because they come with in-built antivirus software, and the Chrome operating system is impervious to malware. Google has implemented many safeguards in ChromeOS, such as sandboxing, auto-updates, validated boot, and encryption keys. Thanks to these features, Chromebooks are among the most secure notebooks available.

Traditional laptops, particularly Windows laptops, are easy targets for hackers due to their greater vulnerability to malware and viruses. Therefore, keeping a Windows laptop free of malware and viruses requires periodically updating the antivirus software. MacBooks are generally considered much safer than Windows laptops, and Apple has had a history of limiting their software in order to enhance security, but it’s still not bulletproof.

Battery Life and Portability

Depending on their specifications, Chromebooks and laptops can have amazing battery life. The most advanced examples in either group can last for at least eight hours on a single charge, often much longer. Indeed, there remain distinctions. In terms of value, Chromebooks typically outperform other laptops regarding battery life.

Since ChromeOS requires fewer resources than Windows, a Chromebook can get by with slower technology that uses less energy. To maintain a respectable level of performance, Windows laptops need to use faster, more power-hungry hardware and due to the sheer pool of available hardware, optimization between the software and hardware isn’t the best.

With thousands of low-cost laptops and Chromebooks available, it isn’t easy to draw clear distinctions between them. In general, the battery life of inexpensive Chromebooks is between five and eight hours. Standard Windows laptops have a battery life of about 3–6 hours.

However, laptops catch up when looking at more expensive models, with the largest batteries offering 80 to 99 watt-hours of power. MacBooks, especially the new Apple silicon models, are often touted as the benchmark for battery life, since they’re performant laptops with excellent power efficiency. New-gen MacBooks easily last a day under moderate workload.

Compared to conventional laptops, Chromebooks are noticeably lighter and slimmer, making them more convenient to carry around. Again, putting less-intensive hardware leads to smaller sizes overall. That’s not to say Windows laptops or even MacBooks are always big and bulky, but in the larger scheme of things, you will always find a Chromebook to be more portable.

Another reason for that is screen sizes, which are also generally smaller on Chromebooks, since a lot of them are essentially glorified tablets. While the average MacBook and Windows laptop has a 13″ screen, the average Chromebook clocks in at around 11 inches, but there are models that go up to 15″ as well. 

The pros and cons of laptops

If you’re still on the fence after hearing about the main advantages and disadvantages of Chromebooks compared to laptops, then perhaps a summary of the pros and cons of laptops would assist.

Pros

• The market offers a plethora of choices
• Often the best value is found among laptops
• Reliable, popular operating systems
• High-performance machines with desktop-class hardware
• Typically, better I/O than Chromebooks
• Equally efficient while working offline
• Usually better-built with nicer screens

Cons

• OS can be a bit hard to grasp for new users
• Usually cost more than Chromebooks
• Potentially overheat and degrade battery quicker due to excessive power
• Battery life often not as good 

Pros and cons of Chromebooks

On the other hand, if the concept of Chromebook still perplex you, here are the reasons why a lot of people get one (and why a lot don’t):

Pros

• Generally more affordable
• Enough for light business/school use
• Simple and easy-to-understand OS
• Enhanced safety features simplify its deployment across an organization
• Safer than Windows, as Chrome OS often encounters fewer security flaws
• Usually has a shorter time to start up
• Native Android app support
• Lighter and more portable

Cons

• Its lack of processing power compared to a laptop may make it impractical.
• Requires mobile or compatible versions of important applications rather than the original versions
• Not properly manageable when offline
• There aren’t as many viable choices.

Final Thoughts

Both Chromebooks and traditional laptops have their merits and shortcomings, so ultimately, the decision should be based on what will serve your needs best. There is a device for everyone, whether you need maximum mobility, the fastest processing speeds, or a certain set of programs. At the end of the day, a laptop or Chromebook is just a tool with you being the real point of difference, not the device itself.

The post What is the Difference Between A Chromebook and A Laptop [2024 Edition] appeared first on Appuals.

The most common reasons why your Chromebook won’t turn on are related to an external device, a brightness setting, a discharged or faulty battery, a software issue, or an overheating component. Most problems can be solved relatively quickly, easily, and inexpensively. However, some may call for more serious action (if you’re dealing with a hardware issue).

Here is a list of solutions to help you fix your Chromebook and get it to show signs of life again. 

1. Turn the brightness up.

One of the first things you need to do is check to see if the brightness of your display is all the way down.

Even though the small blue LED light lets you know your Chromebook is on, the screen will remain black if the lowest brightness setting is active. So before you go any further, turn it all the way up just to be sure.

To do this, press the brightness increase button on the top row until you achieve the maximum brightness.

2. Make sure that your Chromebook is charged

A dead battery is another thing to investigate when your Chromebook doesn’t turn on. Try turning it on again after plugging the device into an AC power source and letting it charge for at least 30 to 60 minutes.

Note: Double-check to see if the charger and outlet are working by plugging in a different device and using a different cable. 

Here is a quick guide that will help you read the battery status of your Chromebook while it’s charging: 

• No lights indicates that the power is off or the battery is completely discharged. 
• A solid blue light indicates that the Chromebook is on.
• If your Chromebook is charging, you should see both the solid blue and orange lights turned on at the same time. Note: This light might vary between Chromebook models. 

3. Perform a Hard Reset

If your Chromebook doesn’t turn on due to a software issue, doing a hard reset procedure should fix the issue in most cases. This method is confirmed to be effective in cases where corrupted cache data prevents the OS from booting. 

Important: Before you start the hard reset procedure, make sure your Chromebook is plugged in or charged.

To initiate a hard reset, hold down the Power button + Refresh button simultaneously for 10 seconds. Release the buttons after 10 seconds, then press and hold the Power button to turn the Chromebook on.

Alternatively, press the power button down and hold it for 30 seconds, then press the power button again to power it on.

4. Check for a Faulty Battery

As with any lithium-ion battery, the battery in your Chromebook will degrade over time to the point where it can’t sustain your system unless it’s plugged in. 

Note: The most common sign that your battery is all but dead is when your Chromebook only works when plugged in and turns off immediately after you remove it from a power source. 

Even if your battery is most likely at fault, you should not attempt to replace it by yourself if you’ve never done it before. Do it at your own risk because opening your Chromebook can void your warranty.

The best thing that you can do is ask a specialist for assistance or send it back to your manufacturer.

5. Place your Chromebook on a hard surface

If your Chromebook screen remains black while the bottom of the device is extremely warm, you might be dealing with an overheating component. Most likely, it’s a motherboard issue.

If this happens, wait for a couple of minutes until the device cools down before starting it again. If the same behaviour repeats, you need to take your Chromebook to a certified technician for repairs. 

Note: If your Chromebook turns off after using it in your lap for long periods, try placing it on a hard surface.

6. Remove all the USB devices that are plugged in

The Chromebook’s boot process may occasionally be hampered by external gear. To make sure that’s not the case, unplug any items plugged into the USB ports.

After ejecting all USB devices and removing any peripherals, restart your Chromebook and see if it boots up.

7. Contact the manufacturer of your device

If your Chromebook still doesn’t turn on after following all the methods above and is still covered by warranty, you might be able to acquire a replacement at no additional cost.

Check the conditions of your issued warranty and send your Chromebook in to be serviced before you do anything that will void it.

If your warranty has expired, check out the official Google Chromebook repair guide for some additional troubleshooting steps. 

Additionally, take your device to a local certified technician and wait for an official diagnosis. 

The post Chromebook Won’t Turn On? – Try These Fixes appeared first on Appuals.

While ChromeOS excels in simplicity and speed, the absence of a native iTunes application may seem like a significant drawback. Nevertheless, there are ways to bypass this limitation. In this article, we’ll explore several methods for getting iTunes up and running on your Chromebook, thus bringing your favorite media content to the versatile ChromeOS environment.

Despite the lack of native support, there are workarounds to run iTunes on a Chromebook. They include:

1. Using Wine
2. Using the iTunes website
3. Using Virtual Machine Applications like Parallels or VirtualBox

Use Wine to Install iTunes on a Chromebook

Since ChromeOS is based on Linux, its Linux capabilities can be harnessed to install Wine, which facilitates installing Windows apps like iTunes on Linux. The installation process involves several steps (as outlined below). Ensure that you have created an iTunes account beforehand, if you don’t already have one.

Enable the Linux Feature on Chromebook and Update It

1. Open the Chromebook Settings and navigate to the Linux Beta tab in the left pane. Some users may find this option under the Advanced settings.

   

2. In the right pane, click on Turn on, then follow the on-screen prompts to configure Linux on your Chromebook.
3. After completing the setup, the Linux Terminal will appear, or you can launch it from the Applications menu. Then execute the following commands in the Terminal:

   sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get upgrade -y

   

Install Wine on Chromebook and Enable Support for 32-Bit Applications

1. Execute the following command in the Linux Terminal to install Wine:

   sudo apt-get install wine

   

2. Wait for the installation to complete, and then execute the following commands, one at a time, in the Terminal to enable support for 32-bit applications:

   sudo dpkg --add-architecture i386
   
   sudo apt update
   
   sudo apt-get install wine32

   

Download the iTunes 32-bit Version

1. Open a browser on your Chromebook (such as Chrome) and navigate to the official iTunes download page on Apple’s website.

   

2. Click on Download and save the file on your Chromebook. Rename the file to something like iTunes.exe for easier identification.

   

3. Then, move the downloaded file to the Linux Files directory or provide the Linux environment with access to the location where the file was saved.

Install the Wine 32-bit Version of iTunes

1. Launch the Linux Terminal and execute the following command:

   WINEARCH=win32 WINEPREFIX=/home/username/.wine32/ wine iTunesSetup.exe

   Replace “username” with your actual username.

2. In the iTunes installation window, click Next, then Install.

   

3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the iTunes installation.
4. Finally, open the Applications on your Chromebook and launch iTunes to begin using it.

Create an iTunes Shortcut

If you prefer a quicker way to access iTunes than from the Applications folder, you can create a shortcut on your Chromebook.

1. Open the File Manager on your Chromebook and navigate to the Linux Files section.
2. Click on the three vertical dots in the top-right corner and select Show Hidden Files.

   

3. Navigate to the following path:

   .local >> share >> applications >> wine >> Program Files >> iTunes

   

4. Right-click on iTunes.desktop and select Open With, then choose Text Editor (you may need to install a text editor if none is installed).
5. Add the following command after “Exec=” in the text file, replacing “<yourusername>” with your actual username:

   env WINEPREFIX="/home/yourusername/.wine32" wine "/home/yourusername/.wine32/drive_c/Program Files/iTunes/iTunes.exe"

   

6. Save and close the Text Editor.
7. You can now launch iTunes from the App Drawer, and you have the option to pin iTunes to the Chrome Shelf for easy access.

Use the iTunes Website

If the aforementioned Wine method feels too complex or didn’t work for you, and your primary interest lies in streaming music from iTunes, then consider using the iTunes website directly. You might find it convenient to create a shortcut to the website on your Chrome browser. Below, we’ll demonstrate how to add a shortcut for the Music page of the Apple website.

1. Open Chrome and visit the Music page on the Apple website.
2. Click on the three vertical dots in the upper-right corner of the window, then navigate to More Tools and select Create Shortcut.
3. In the prompt that appears, enter the shortcut name as iTunes.

   

4. A shortcut will now appear on the Chromebook’s desktop, allowing you to conveniently listen to music from iTunes.

Import iTunes Music to YouTube Music

Some users may prefer to transfer their iTunes music library to YouTube Music in order to utilize the Google ecosystem. To do this, you need to perform the following steps on a PC:

1. Open a web browser and go to the YouTube Music website.
2. Drag and drop the iTunes music files onto the YouTube Music web page.
3. Accept the YouTube Terms of Service (if prompted) and wait for the transfer process to complete.

   

4. The uploaded iTunes music will be accessible and playable via YouTube Music. Moreover, YouTube Music has support within the Apple ecosystem, making it simple to synchronize your music library across devices.

Use a Virtual Machine Application

For users who desire the full iTunes experience on a Chromebook (especially if Wine didn’t suit their needs), a virtual machine application is an excellent choice. There are several options available, such as Parallel Desktop for ChromeOS (which is paid), but we will focus on the process for using VirtualBox. Keep in mind that many Chromebooks with ARM processors may not be able to run virtual machines effectively, whereas Intel-based Chromebooks are likely to handle them with fewer issues.

Before starting, ensure you have downloaded a Windows ISO file if you have a high-end Chromebook at hand, or choose a lightweight Linux distribution if needed. Additionally, verify that your Chromebook has enough space to accommodate the guest operating system for the virtual machine.

1. Open a web browser on the Chromebook and visit the VirtualBox Linux downloads page.
2. Select and save the Debian 10 version of VirtualBox (the file size is approximately 80 MB).

   

3. After the file has downloaded, navigate to its location on your Chromebook and double-click the file to initiate installation.
4. Select Install with Linux (Beta) and follow the on-screen instructions to install VirtualBox.
5. When VirtualBox is installed, launch it from the Linux Apps Folder, and click New to create a virtual machine.

   

6. Proceed with the guided steps to install a guest operating system, such as Windows or a lightweight Linux distribution, depending on your Chromebook’s capabilities.
7. After the guest OS is installed, launch it from within VirtualBox and install iTunes on it.
8. With the setup complete, launch iTunes to enjoy its full functionality on your Chromebook.

Please note that running virtual machines can be demanding and may not be suitable for all Chromebooks due to potential performance impacts.

The post How to Download and Install iTunes on Chromebook? appeared first on Appuals.

You might be looking for an easy way to rotate the screen on your Chrome OS, or you might have accidentally pressed some random keys and this caused your screen to swung out of order.

If any of these scenarios are applicable, this article will help. In what follows, we’ll show you two different ways of changing the orientation of your Chromebook screen:

• You can change the orientation of your Chrome OS screen by using the built-in shortcut.
• You can change the orientation of your Chrome OS screen from the Settings menu.

PRO TIP: At the bottom of the article, we’ve also included some steps that will show you how to rotate the screen of an external device connected to a Chromebook.

Keep in mind that when you change the orientation of your Chromebook, the trackpad will follow the orientation of the screen.

All of the methods presented below will help you achieve the same thing with small differences, so feel free to follow whichever method you feel more comfortable with.

Rotate Chromebook Screen using Shortcut

If you’re using it for the easiest and painless way of rotating your Chromebook screen, you should use the Ctrl + Shift + Refresh (F3) shortcut.

Upon pressing these buttons at the same time, you will be prompted by a pop-up – Only after clicking Continue on this pop-up, you will see your screen rotating by 90 degrees. You will only see this prompt the first time you attempt to rotate your screen via this shortcut.

Note: The only drawback of this method is that it will only the screen clockwise by 90 degrees. If you’re looking to finetune the orientation of your screen on Chromebook, move down to the next potential fix below.

If you use this shortcut, the custom screen orientation will be preserved even after you restart your Chromebook device (until you press the key combination again). The exception to this rule is if you’re using a 2-in-1 device that has Auto-Rotation enabled.

Important: You might be unable to use this shortcut if the Function key feature is disabled on your Chrome OS settings. To fix this issue, follow the instructions below:

1. Start by clicking on the System Clock (bottom-right corner), then click on the gear icon from the pop-up menu that just appeared.

   

2. Once you’re inside the settings menu, click on Device from the tab on the left.
3. Next, move over to the right-hand side tab and select Keyboard.
4. From the collection of options under Keyboard, enable the toggle associated with Treat top-row keys as function keys.
   

   

Rotate screen from Chromebook’s Settings

This is the longer route out of the two, but also the one that gives you more control over the screen orientation of your Chrome OS. By using the Chromebook Settings menu, you can jump the screen orientation by 270 degrees without having to press any key combination.

This should be your preferred approach if you would like to set a screen orientation that you would like to use from now on.

If this scenario is applicable and you don’t mind taking the longer route, follow the instructions below:

1. From the desktop screen of your Chromebook device, click on the clock (bottom-right corner).
2. Next, from the action pop-up that just appeared, click on the gear icon to access the Settings menu.

   

3. Once you’re inside the Settings screen, select Device from the vertical tab on the left, then move over to the right-hand menu and click on Display from the list of available options.
4. Inside the Display cluster of options, use the drop-down menu associated with Orientation (under Built-in Display) to adjust the screen orientation according to your preferences.

   

   Note: You can choose from the Default (0°), 90°, 180° and 270°, but keep in mind that this menu will be inaccessible if you’re using a 2-in-1 Chromebook in Tablet Mode. In this case, you can make the menu accessible by disabling Auto-Rotation from the Chrome OS pop-up menu.

Rotate the Screen of an External Display Connected to Chromebook

If you have a second display hooked up to your Chromebook device, Chrome OS also gives you the option to change the orientation of your secondary devices.

Pro Tip: You can also use the Ctrl + Shift + Refresh (F3) shortcut to change the screen orientation of your secondary display, but your Chromebook cursor must be on the display you want to change the orientation of.

In case you want more control when rotating the screen of your external display, follow the instructions below to learn how to do it from the Settings screen:

1. On the desktop screen of your Chromebook, click on the clock button to bring up the action menu of Chrome OS.
2. From the context menu that just appeared, click or tap on the gear (Settings icon).

   

3. Once you’re inside the Settings menu, use the menu on the left to click on Devices, then select Displays from the menu on the right.
4. Inside the Display tab, select your external display by clicking or tapping on the dedicated button.

   

5. Finally, use the drop-down menu associated with Orientation to rotate the screen according to your own preferences.

   

The post How to Rotate the Screen on ChromeBook? appeared first on Appuals.