NEW YORK: Google decided to launch a new range of Chrome-powered computers that are going to be aimed at the budget-conscious customer. The range will include a new device called a Chromebit that looks like a large memory stick and plugs into monitors or a TV screen to transform into a computer, using the HDMI port.
In the announcement was the details of their cheapest ever Chromebook laptop that will cost around $149 or £101, moving them into ever more intensive competition with rivals Microsoft.
Comparison
The announcement came just a day after Microsoft revealed their plans to sell an entry-level tablet-hybrid. The Surface 3 costs over $500 or £400 for the most basic model but even this gives access to a wider range of software made for the Windows platform.
Tech analysts say that this area is a booming sector at the moment as the falling cost of hardware means that families are seeking to equip their kids with computers and schools are also urging them to do this. The idea being that the kids can then bring their own device to class (nicknamed BYOD). This idea means that manufacturers are looking to create low-cost laptops that parents can buy for themselves as well as the kids.
Google had said it would not display ads to children using education-related software that will be provided with the Chrome platform and isn’t going to charge manufacturers to use its operating system.
Long term goal
One expert said that the company would still benefit financially in the long run because the aim for both Google and Microsoft is to put their brand and services out there so they become familiar to kids. This helps build loyalty from a young age as the children become used to using a particular system and continue to pick this when adults.
The idea is also to test the devices with the hope of expending to developing markets where people have very low disposable incomes. At first, both the new Google devices will be limited to the US but plans to go worldwide are in place for the near future.
More than five million Chromebooks and Chromebase desktops were sold last year, according to market research companies. Added to this is the Chrome OS’s recent development to be able to run a limited number of Android apps and to store most of its files in the user’s cloud.
Computer on a stick
Chromebits are set to be manufactured by Taiwanese manufacturer Asus and will be going on sale before the end of the year. It follows the success of the Chromecast, a media streaming dongle that takes a similar form.
It follows the release by both Intel and Hannspree of Windows-powered PC on a stick that are currently retailing at a slightly higher price. The devices needed to provide displays; keyboards and other peripherals but the idea still had great appeal.
