Personal Stories and Experiences

The Google Pixelbook 2: Top Kid Friendly Features

Like many other parents, we rely on electronic devices to entertain and educate our kids. Whether at home or on vacation tablets and laptops have become an essential household companion. The trouble is that they malfunction, crash or break which leaves us in a continuous search for the next replacement. In fact, last month we had to take our tablet in to fix the chipped screen.

So when we heard about the Google Pixelbook 2, we were intrigued. The newly released laptop sounded like a good fit for our son whose own laptop is on the fritz For years he has used a chrome notebook at school. Moreover, he uses the google store apps frequently on his phone. After checking the laptop out at our local Best Buy store here are the top kid-friendly features we loved about the Google Pixelbook 2.

google pixelbook open
#1 Sturdy Build

At just 10.3mm, the Pixelbook 2  looks nothing like its clunky predecessors. It is the skinniest and lightest  Google ever which makes it an ideal travel companion. It comes in three hard drive capacities 128 GB, 256GB, and 512 GB. And best of all; a with Corning Gorilla Glass touchscreen, the Google Pixelbook 2 can withstand unintentional drops and mishaps.


#2 The Stylus

The stylus pen that is sold separately is my favorite feature. I didn’t even know how much I  missed having one until I got to experience one. After working with the stylus, I wondered how I managed without one all these years. It is handy for handling many of the digital chores like highlighting texts taking brief notes and doodling when bored. I could see my son coloring digital pages while waiting at the doctor’s office or on a long-haul flight.

The Google Pixelbook 2: Top Kid Friendly Features keyboard google assist

#3 Built-in Google Assistant*

While the stylus pen was my favorite, the built-in Google Assist feature was my son’s favorite.  He discovered the Google Pixelbook 2 had a designated Google Assistant button. If your kid knows how to communicate with the Google home devices or use the google cell phone, then this one is pretty much the same. For those of you not yet acquainted with the feature-the assistant can help occupy even the antsiest of kids. It can answer questions, provide directions and help with homework. All they have to say is OK Google to start it up.

#4 Apps Galore**

After years of hesitation, Google has finally begun to incorporate Android apps in Chrome OS. Since the laptop runs on Chrome OS, the apps give the Pixelbook 2 users more versatility and options.  Google has recently added over 50 new games, stories and activities for kids of all ages.  Furthermore the offline access to movies and TV shows with Google Play Movies and YouTube Red can be heaven sent for long waits in places with little or no WIFI.

The Google Pixelbook 2: Top Kid Friendly Features rotated position


#5 Safety


Forgot to download the latest security update?  No problem!  Powered by Chrome OS, the Pixelbook 2 gets the most recent security and software automatic updates straight from the internet. Our son loved the fact he could not only sketch or edit his illustrations but automatically back them all up effortlessly.


#6 Easy to Use

Need to occupy your kid fast?  This laptop gets up and going incredibly quickly!  But turning on isn’t the only thing it does fast. The all-day battery charges via a USB-Cin 15 minutes for a two-hour use. And since it runs on the Chrome OS system, it doesn’t require fans making it a quiet device.

The Google Pixelbook 2: Top Kid Friendly Features rubber keybaord

Final thoughts

Overall, we liked the new Google Pixelbook 2 and thought it was a decent value for its almost 1,000$ price tag.After using a Chromebook in class for several years, many kids like our son are ready to use a more complex laptop but don’t want to give up using the familiar interface.  For them and those wanting a versatile device, the Pixelbook 2  with its innovative design and ease of use may be the way to go. Interested in learning more about the Google Pixelbook at Best Buy? Check out their website  http://bby.me/lryn9

Ready to buy? Save $100 on your purchase from 3/25 – 4/7/18!

 

* Google Assistant requires Internet connection.
**Intel and Intel Core are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.
***Availability and performance of certain apps and services may vary by region. Subscriptions(s) may be required, and additional terms, conditions and/ or charges may apply. Pixelbook and Pixelbook Pen are optimized for selected apps and services only. 

Disclaimer: The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.

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Margalit Sturm Francus
A reformed dentist who gave up pulling teeth to show her son the world! Need tips on how to #travel with #autism? Follow me on Instagram & Facebook
Margalit Sturm Francus

Margalit Sturm Francus

A reformed dentist who gave up pulling teeth to show her son the world! Need tips on how to #travel with #autism? Follow me on Instagram & Facebook

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