Google packs its ‘Essential’ apps onto the Start menu in new Windows PCs to give Microsoft a run for its money

Google packs its 'Essential' apps onto the Start menu in new Windows PCs to give Microsoft a run for its money

What you need to know

  • Google recently launched a new Essentials desktop app, which packs its primary services in a centralized location for easy accessibility, including Google Photos, Google Drive, and Google Messages.
  • The new experience will ship preinstalled on new HP laptops, including Spectre, Envy, Pavilion, OMEN, and Victus, and is expected to ship to more Windows laptops soon. 
  • Google offers a 2-month Google One free trial through its Essentials app to new subscribers.

As a seasoned researcher with years of experience delving into the intricacies of tech giants and their offerings, I must say that both Google and Microsoft have made significant strides recently.


Google has announced a new desktop application called Google Essentials, designed to assist users in finding and installing some of Google’s top-tier services. This software offers popular Google tools such as Google Photos, Google Drive, and Google Messages.

Initially, the Essentials app comes pre-loaded on all freshly purchased HP models such as Spectre, Envy, Pavilion, OMEN, and Victus laptops. It’s anticipated that this app will eventually be accessible for installation on additional Windows-based laptops in the future.

You can access Google Basics directly from the Start menu on Windows 11, but Google gives users the option to remove any individual Google service or delete the entire Google Basics suite.

The app serves as a one-stop platform that offers quick links to Google’s prominent productivity tools, along with a single point of access for all your Google account details. Additionally, it allows you to access Google Photos and Google Messages, thereby simplifying the process of browsing through your photo albums and replying to messages from loved ones.

Ultimately, users who meet the criteria can enjoy a complimentary 2-month trial of Google One via Google’s latest Essentials application.

Microsoft’s Windows 11 is 100% DMA compliant

Google packs its 'Essential' apps onto the Start menu in new Windows PCs to give Microsoft a run for its money

As a longtime user of Microsoft services, I have noticed changes in their offerings this year that I find quite refreshing. Having been labeled as a gatekeeper by the European Union, Microsoft has made efforts to ensure its services comply with the Digital Markets Act (DMA). One of the most significant changes they’ve implemented is allowing users like myself to uninstall applications such as OneDrive, Edge, and Bing if we so choose. Furthermore, Microsoft has enabled us to pin third-party apps directly on the taskbar in Windows 11, giving us greater control over our digital environment. These adjustments reflect a newfound respect for user autonomy and choice that I appreciate, having grown accustomed to more restrictive practices from tech companies in the past.

Initially, the large tech company was labeled a “gatekeeper” due to its offerings like Bing, Edge, and Windows. Yet, Microsoft contends that their Bing and Edge services fall short of regulatory requirements, potentially putting them at a competitive disadvantage compared to competitors.

Through careful examination and research, it was found that the services didn’t have significant influence in the digital market, making it unnecessary for Digital Market Act (DMA) regulation. As a result, they were excluded from its application.

As a fervent supporter, I can’t help but express my dismay over Mozilla’s accusation that Microsoft employs underhanded tactics and harmful layouts, intentionally misleading users into choosing Microsoft Edge within Windows. Moreover, Opera has taken the step to file a complaint with the EU General Court, aiming to nullify the European Commission’s decision not to categorize Microsoft Edge as a gatekeeper under the Digital Markets Act. This complaint underscores the challenges faced by users on Windows devices who wish to set third-party browsers as their default option.

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2024-08-23 16:09