Business AI Laptop Evaluation Checklist

AI-first laptops such as Googlebook introduce new capabilities — but also new compatibility, management and privacy questions. Before replacing proven business devices, use this checklist to verify that a new AI-first laptop meets your actual requirements.

Applications

• List every required application used in this role.
• Identify any applications that are Windows-only with no web or Android alternative.
• Check whether web-based alternatives provide sufficient feature parity.
• Test Android versions of required applications for desktop usability.
• Test complex Microsoft 365 files — advanced Excel workbooks, macros, specialist add-ins.
• Confirm line-of-business software is available and fully functional.
• Test offline working behaviour for each required application.

Peripherals

• Test required printers — network printers and any specialist label or receipt printers.
• Test scanners and document capture devices.
• Confirm external monitor support and display arrangement.
• Test docking stations and USB hubs.
• Test headsets and audio devices — particularly for Teams or video calls.
• Confirm any specialist devices: barcode scanners, signature pads, point-of-sale hardware.

Connectivity

• Confirm Wi-Fi connectivity and corporate network authentication (WPA2/WPA3 Enterprise).
• Test Ethernet connectivity if required.
• Test the required VPN solution — confirm an Android-compatible client is available.
• Test mobile hotspot usage if relevant.
• Confirm offline working behaviour for critical workflows.

Device management

• Confirm device enrolment method — zero-touch or manual.
• Confirm security policy enforcement through Google Admin or equivalent.
• Test application deployment via managed Play Store.
• Confirm remote wipe capability.
• Confirm device inventory and compliance reporting.
• Confirm update control — ability to manage when updates are applied.
• Verify support provider can manage Android Enterprise devices.

Security

• Confirm full-disk encryption is enabled and enforceable.
• Confirm identity and MFA configuration.
• Review AI data access: what can Gemini read, and can this be controlled by policy?
• Review privacy controls and activity history settings.
• Confirm security update commitment period from manufacturer and Google.
• Confirm audit logging capability for compliance needs.

Support

• Confirm manufacturer warranty terms and repair route.
• Confirm replacement process for lost or damaged devices.
• Confirm support provider's capability and experience with Android Enterprise.
• Review available documentation for end users and administrators.

Pilot

• Select a small group of test users representing a specific business role.
• Define clear success criteria before the pilot starts.
• Test real workflows — not demonstrations.
• Record all issues, workarounds and limitations found.
• Maintain a rollback option throughout the pilot.
• Collect structured user feedback at the end.
• Review results against success criteria before any wider deployment.