Google has added support for docking stations to its Works With Chromebook program. This will allow third-party accessory makers to launch docking stations that have been tested and certified to work with Chrome OS and Chromebooks.
All Work With Chromebook-certified docks will also be compatible with Windows and Mac.
Certified Docks Will Feature Automatic Firmware Updates
As announced by Google on the Google Cloud blog, all Work With Chromebook docks will automatically update their firmware alongside ChromeOS software updates. This will ensure that the docks are always compatible with the latest release of ChromeOS and support any new feature that Google adds to the platform in the future.
Depending on which docking station you buy, you will be able to connect up to three external monitors to your Chromebook. The smaller docks, which are portable in nature, will allow you to connect your Chromebook to one external monitor apart from offering additional USB ports.
Many docking stations are already compatible with Chromebooks. However, now that Google is certifying them, you can buy one with complete peace of mind knowing it will work without any issues with your Chromebook.
Hyper Announces Its Work With Chromebook Docking Station Lineup
To go along with Google's announcement, Hyper announced its entire lineup of Work With Chromebook docking stations. This includes the 14-port HyperDrive Docking Station featuring support for triple 4K monitors at 30Hz, 3x USB-A ports, 2x USB-C ports, 65W USB-C Power Delivery port, and more.
The portable HyperDrive USB-C hub features 5 ports, including an HDMI port, Ethernet, and 2x USB-A ports. Lastly, there's a USB-C to Ethernet adapter. All three docks will be available starting August 2021.
Targus also announced that it would launch two Work With Chromebooks-certified docking stations later this year.
Connect Multiple Accessories to Your Chromebook With a Dock
A docking station will make it easier to connect other peripherals and accessories to your Chromebook. Most Chromebooks have very limited USB ports that might not be sufficient if you plan to connect several external hard disks, external displays, and other accessories to it.
This is where a dock comes in handy and even offers a very convenient one-cable solution. Instead of multiple cables dangling from your Chromebook, you only connect the dock to it. All other accessories and cables are then connected to the dock. Many bigger docks will also be able to charge your Chromebook.
Thanks to the one-cable solution offered by a dock, whenever you have to disconnect the Chromebook from all accessories and carry it around, you can simply unplug the dock cable, and you are done.
