Google Chromebooks are small and extremely portable web-based netbooks, running on the Chrome operating system and incorporating the Chrome browser. As you’ve probably guessed, these handy devices feature “all things Google” and, for now, are made with partner companies like Samsung and Acer. In addition to Android, the Chromebook is Google’s step into the lucrative mobile computing market.
The heart of the Chromebook is the operating system designed by Google, based on Chromium OS, which was an open source project that Google started in 2009. Its origin is called Chrome OS, a Linux-based system that is mainly dedicated to the web. Simple applications and tasks associated with surfing the net. Instead of a traditional desktop interface, the Chromebook has a browser, and because these devices have a solid-state drive, boot times are really fast – less than 10 seconds and instantly from sleep mode. There is also a media player and a simple file manager, along with Wi-Fi and 3G connections. These devices generally come with a full-size keyboard, 10 to 12-inch screens, and weigh about 3 to 4 pounds.
Just think of the Chromebook as a mini laptop, rather than a slate-like device like the iPad. The Chromebook has just about everything you’d find in a laptop except an optical drive. It has USB ports, output connections such as HDMI or VGA, a touch panel, memory card readers, and a webcam.
However, the most dominant feature of a Google Chromebook is something that cannot be seen just by looking at the device. Actually, this feature is the main main reason why you should get one in the first place. So what is this important feature? Well, it has a lot to do with online storage. What an idiot called “in the cloud” or “cloud computing” – an expression that puzzles and confuses a simple process of storing your content on a remote third-party online server. In this case, your content is stored on servers controlled by Google.
This is very logical since the Chromebook is a device designed for the web. Storing your content online means that it is available anytime, anywhere. Like your web-based email accounts, like Gmail. This also provides a convenient backup and you really don’t have to worry about downloading and storing stuff on your device, which can cause security issues if you’re not careful. Which brings us to another reason to buy a Chromebook, but let’s examine each of these reasons in detail.
1. Portability – The main reason one would buy a Chromebook is portability. These devices are small and lightweight, you can put them under your arm or in your backpack and take them anywhere. They have a long battery life (around 7 or 8 hours) so you can use them throughout the day. This device is designed for the person on the move or the student in the classroom.
2. Connectivity – Above all, the Chromebook is a netbook, designed to keep you connected to the web at all times. With Wi-Fi and / or 3G you can stay in touch with friends, family and co-workers throughout the day. Look out for some offers from Verizon that will give you 100MB of free monthly 3G access for up to 2 years.
3. Security – Another important reason to buy a Chromebook has to do with greater security. This device was designed from the ground up to be secure and has many layers of security built in, such as data encryption, sandboxing, and verified boot. Plus, all your content, photos, documents, and settings are safely stored online.
4. Ease of use – All the above reasons would be pretty useless, if your Chromebook weren’t easy to use. Booting and logging in are very simple processes that anyone can do quickly. Storing your material online gives you great freedom and peace of mind. You can easily share your content with family and friends. Some Chromebooks have special custom web keys that make browsing the web faster and easier. Some have screens that are 40% brighter and can be used outdoors, even in the sun.
5. Hello, it’s Google – Regardless of your own opinion of Google, there is no doubt that they have built a solid reputation for offering superior products and services over the years. The Chromebook is a Google-branded product and you can bet the farm that they will put their vast resources into updating and improving this product in the future. One of the biggest benefits of having a web-based product / service is that you can easily update and adjust it as you improve and develop it. Keep in mind that this is a “work in progress” and the Chromebook of tomorrow will have countless applications and products built right into the device.
There you have it, five solid reasons to buy or get a Google Chromebook. If you are looking for a netbook or mini-laptop, these are also reasons why you should consider the Chromebook. Chances are you won’t be disappointed or waste your time, as the Chromebook offers the products and more.