Google's new Googlebook laptops are positioned as premium devices with tight Android phone integration, but at launch the "Better Together" features work only with Pixel phones. According to Ars Technica, the features require Android 17, and even Samsung phones that ship with Android 17, such as the Z Fold 8, do not stay connected.
Google has confirmed that Samsung phones are not currently supported, with an update expected in the coming weeks. Other manufacturers are further behind: Motorola's 2026 phones launched with Android 16, OnePlus is still testing Android 17, and Xiaomi's rollout is limited. This leaves Pixel as the only phone that works with Googlebook integration today.
The situation highlights a broader issue: Google has moved many features into Play Services to reduce dependence on OS updates, but Googlebook support is still tied to Android 17. Since Samsung is the largest Android OEM, launching without support and without clear public disclosure is a poor start for Google's laptop push.