WASHINGTON: Google announced a new Chromebook, the Chromebook Flip, which is made by ASUS and is a convertible style premium all metal Chromebook. Weighing in at less than 2 pounds and being 15mm thick this will be a very portable Chromebook with tablet functionality for when you don’t require a keyboard.
The other part of Google’s announcement was the release of their new Chromebit. Created by ASUS as well, the Chromebit is much like the Chromecast but features a full on computer running Chrome OS instead of just being able to cast to a screen. It looks to be a bit larger than the Chromecast but with it you can turn any HDMI display into a fully functioning Chromebook with this miniature computer stick for less than $100. One end features an HDMI connector to plug into any HDMI compatible-display, while the other contains a USB 2.0 port for powering and connecting a keyboard or mouse through a USB hub. The device also features Bluetooth if you choose to connect a mouse and keyboard that way instead. The Chromebit is much like Intel’s Compute Stick which has the ability to turn any screen into a Windows 8.1 or Linux device.
With Google working on putting more and more Android applications on Chrome OS it will make for quite a versatile little portable computer that you can bring with you anywhere. Chrome OS has become increasingly more powerful in the four years that it has been out and looks like it is still picking up steam. Since all developers can now bring their Android apps to Chrome it will be nice to be able to switch from your phone or tablet to your computer and have the same familiar programs you are already used to using.
