Michael Knutson
06-11-2011, 07:00 AM
<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.digitaltrends.com/computing/first-chromebooks-available-for-pre-order/' target='_blank'>http://www.digitaltrends.com/comput...-for-pre-order/</a><br /><br /></div><p><em>"Electronics retailers Amazon.com and Best Buy are now taking pre-orders for the first two Chromebooks, lightweight notebook computers running Google’s cloud-dependent Chrome OS. The units, announced last month at Google IO, are made by Acer and Samsung, and represent Google’s first effort in the desktop operating system market. The notebooks rely on Internet connectivity to connect to Web-based apps and storage, and Chrome OS is based on bringing a simplified, browser-based experience to users: there’s no real way to access the file system, and right now users are limited to only a handful of apps. But Google’s hope is that by providing streamlined, simplified access to cloud-based applications and services, Chromebooks will be a hit with consumers looking for an inexpensive computing option—and the ability to access their data anywhere they can get an Internet connection."</em></p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/lpt/auto/1307773124.usr17748.jpg" style="border: 0;" /></p><p>There are four models available from Samsung, and two from Acer. The Samsung models are a bit larger, and a bit more expensive. The big question right now is whether consumers will embrace the new technology, with somewhat limited functionality, when a netbook or laptop with much more capability can be had for about the same price. Funny, but there are already reviews (but mostly on the CR-48 pilot program) on Amazon, even though the product isn't released yet. The price range runs from about $380 to $500. All six Chromebooks can be pre-ordered at our <a href="http://astore.amazon.com/laptopthoughts-20/search?node=1&keywords=chromebook&x=9&y=9&preview=" target="_blank">LaptopThoughts Amazon Store</a>.</p>