Google has unveiled the fanciest new laptop in the Chromebooks lineup called the Chromebook Pixel.
Chromebooks were designed to make computing simple and secure, running on Google Chrome OS as its operating system. It is designed to be connected to the Internet and utilize cloud services rather than traditional locally installed applications.
The goal of the Pixel is to make the pixels on the screen disappear, giving the best web experience. The screen has the highest pixel density (239 pixels per inch) of any laptop screen on the market today, including the new Apple Macbook retina displays.
The Pixel’s body is made from an anodized aluminum alloy, vents are hidden, screws are invisible and speakers tucked away beneath the backlit keyboard, all traits of a highly refined and well engineered computer. It is powered by an Intel Core i5 Processor and a SSD making loading webpages and switching between apps nearly instant.
Both WiFi and LTE (with Verizon) versions are available. The WiFi model is priced at $1,299 and the LTE model is $1,449 and available at select Best Buy locations.
Hmmm, looks rather interesting so far. Will have to search for some more info & usage video reviews.
I beta tested the Google Cr-48, which was Google beta to the Chromebook. The finished Chrome OS is pretty nice. It’s only designed for someone who lives in the cloud. I haven’t made that jump just yet but I think I am not too far out from being able to do that.
I don’t think I can full “cloud” yet either. I’m still used to having a desktop in front of me to click and drag around on. Ha!
How about those $199 and $249 Chromebooks? They definitely seem worth having as a back-up computer when needed.
Those lesser expensive Chromebooks are a nice backup. However, you would need to be able to do things from the cloud. I use Gmail’s web interface, Dropbox for files and photos, and I use Pandora for music. Just keep in mind that the “backup” is only so good as to how prepared you are for when that happens.
This is a very good device only if we can be charged less for wireless internet from the phone company since most of us will rely on our mobile phone company to provide signal for our listing presentations, etc.
Any recommendations on cost effective solution.
Thanks
Hi Justyna,
It seems that the trend has been for cell carrier data pricing to go up, all while providing less. There used to be unlimited data plans but I believe they pretty much all have gotten rid of them.
Unfortunately, I view data packages on cell carriers a necessary evil and I would suggest looking first at which cell carrier is best for your area. Then take a look at pricing. If a cheaper alternative does not have good service in your area you will not be happy when it’s not working when you need it most.
Lastly, if you decide to use your cell phone to broadcast a WiFi signal to your laptop/tablet, keep in mind that Verizon is not capable of simultaneous voice and data, which means that if you are on a phone call, your laptop/tablet will not have Internet. AT&T’s system, does allow for this, so if it’s something important to you, keep that in mind.
Hi Tei,
We just picked up the 128 GB version of the Pro and are very pleased. Not only is it fast, I have installed all of my Windows 7 apps on it with the installation over our local network. For someone that does not want to try and do installs over a network, I might suggest purchasing an inexpensive (under $50.00) external DVD which will make things much easier and faster. With the current java/OS wars, this was the only logical choice. We now have the Surface Pro completely set up to replace our laptops when traveling with the ability to print, scan, contracts,as well as email, etc.
For what its worth, I would get the more expensive keyboard. It is much easier to type on…
Thanks for the feedback on the Surface Pro and the keyboard. It sounds like you are all set!