After a two year wait Google along with its partners Samsung and Acer, have introduced its first Chromebooks.

 

Unlike conventional notebooks and netbooks which operate on operating system software (OSS) that take a while to boot up, Chromebooks boot in eight seconds. This is because it doesn’t have a conventional OS stored on the computer, but is instead powered by the web, since its functionality and applications is accessed via Google’s Chrome web browser. 

 

 

There are two models on offer, the first of which is Samsung’s Series 5 Chromebook boasting a 12.1" (1280 x 800) display and powered by an Intel Atom dual-core CPU. It sports built in dual-band Wi-Fi as well as optional 3G connectivity and features a 4-in-1 memory card slot, along with two USB 2.0 ports. This notebook is very portable weighing 1.48 kg, and has an HD webcam with noise cancelling microphone for making video-calls, mini-VGA port, full-size Chrome keyboard and trackpad.

 

 

Acer’s Chromebook boasts an 11.6" HD wide-screen CineCrystal LED-backlit LCD and is even lighter than Samsung’s Chromebook offering, weighing in at just 1.34 kg. It is also powered by an Intel Atom dual-core CPU, features an HD webcam with noise cancelling microphone, two USB 2.0 ports, high-definition audio support, a 4-in-1 memory card slot and HDMI port. Acer claims six hours of continuous use will be possible from a single charge.  

 

 

 

Google stated that due to automatic updates the software on a user’s Chromebook will eventually get even faster over time. Users will also not need to spend long amounts of time to set these PCs up or download and install updates, since the software is updated automatically.

 

The search giant said that users will get a full day's use of the Chromebooks from a single charge, so they will not need to carry their notebook charger around with them. Both models also feature optional 3G connectivity, allowing the user to be more mobile than having to rely solely on a Wi-Fi connection. Chromebooks have many layers of security built in, nullifying the need for any anti-virus software.

 

 

Chromebooks will be available online as of 15 June in the US, UK, France, Germany, Netherlands, Italy and Spain. More countries will follow in the coming months, no local release info and pricing is available yet.