Navigating Google’s Chromebook Plus and Free Google One AI Premium Offer
I’ve been delving into Google’s recent announcements about the Chromebook Plus and ChromeOS, particularly the free Google One AI Premium offer (which includes Gemini Advanced) for new Chromebook Plus buyers.
The presentation was a revelation, demonstrating that advanced AI doesn’t need to come with a hefty price tag. I was thrilled to see Google offering Gemini Advanced free for a year to Chromebook Plus users, which reinforced their message on stage. This was something I was eager to share with everyone.
Unpacking the Fine Print
However, post-presentation, several questions emerged. What about those who bought a Chromebook Plus a month ago, or even three months ago? What about devices with Chromebook Plus features but not the branding? How will this offer be inclusive without alienating recent buyers?
The initial answers were disappointing. The Chromebook Perk, prominently featured on the Chromebook Perks page, contained some disheartening terms. My initial excitement turned to concern. How would we explain this to recent Chromebook Plus purchasers?
Testing the Offer on Older Devices
Before jumping to conclusions, I decided to test the offer on older devices. Using a couple of non-work email accounts, I tried the offer on some off-brand Chromebook Plus models in our office. Surprisingly, it worked on three devices with three different email addresses!
I then asked Joe to try the HP Dragonfly Pro Chromebook, but he hit a roadblock. A friend with a recently purchased Chromebook Plus model also faced issues, with the Perks site stating the deal had expired. This led me to wonder if my initial successes were flukes.
Undeterred, we decided to perform a Powerwash on my friend’s device and set it up again, following the new OOBE setup discussed previously. This time, the benefit activated. An update during setup might have been the key, as the device updated to ChromeOS 125.
Following this, I advised Joe to do the same, and it worked for him too. To confirm, I reached out to our Chrome Unboxed Plus Discord community. Almost everyone who updated, Powerwashed, and tried to use the Gemini Perk on their Chromebook Plus reported success, regardless of when they purchased their device.
A few international users faced issues, but most who tried this method succeeded. If you want to take advantage of this offer, back up your local files, update to ChromeOS 125, and then Powerwash your Chromebook. Once set up again, visit the Chromebook benefits page and claim the Gemini offer.
Act Quickly!
Deals like these can be fleeting, and there may be underlying reasons why Google might restrict this offer for older Chromebook Plus devices. While I disagree with this approach, the window to take advantage of this deal might close soon. Don’t miss out!
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