Samsung launches new Chromebook and Chromebox

Samsung has announced the release of a new Chromebook and Chromebox, both of which coincide with Google's updates to Chrome OS.The newly launched Chromebox is a desktop PC, without of course, a keyboard and mouse. If you want those accessories, you can buy them as an optional accessories. The Chromebox is available on Google’s web site through a couple of retailers. Amazon and Newegg are the big names on the list and the product is only available in the US and the UK as of now for a starting price of $329 (roughly Rs. 18,000).

Samsung Series 3 Chromebox

Some key specs of the Samsung Series 3 Chromebox are:

• Processor Intel Core series
• Memory: 4 GB RAM
• Wirelesss connectivity: Dual-band WiFi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Bluetooth 3.0
• Ethernet: 1000Mbps
• USB: 6 USB 2.0 ports
• Video out: 2x DisplayPort++, DVI output 

Google and Samsung also unveiled a new Chromebook, called the Samsung Series 5 550 . It comes with a 12.1-inch (1,280-by-800 resolution) screen, weigh 3.3 pounds, and be powered by an Intel Core processor. The system comes with Gigabit Ethernet and either 2.4/5GHz dual-band Wi-Fi alone or a combination of Wi-Fi and 3G wireless. The Chromebook boasts six hours of battery life under constant use and over six days of standby. Other specs include 4GB of memory, two USB 2.0 ports, a 4-in-1 memory slot, HD webcam, Kensington lock port, and a DisplayPort++.  The Chromebook uses more battery in the long run and it’s evident from the specifications. The Samsung Series 5 550 Chromebook is priceed at $449 (approx.Rs. 25,000).

The Samsung Series 5 550 Chromebook

Some key specs of the Samsung Series 5 550 Chromebook are :

• Screen size: 12.1-inch (1280x800) display
• Weight: 1.48 kg
• Claimed battery life: 6 hours of usage
• Processor: Intel Core series
• Memory 4 GB RAM
• Network connectivity: Dual band Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n, Gigabit ethernet, and 3G modem (opt) 1
• Webcam: Built-in HD camera
• USB: 2 USB 2.0 ports
• Memory card reader: 4-in-1 memory slot
• Video output: DisplayPort++ Output (compatible with HDMI, DVI, VGA)

The Chromebox and Chromebook will boot faster than previous Chrome OS systems, and feature better overall performance because of their Core-based processors with integrated HD graphics. It will certainly be an improvement over the Atom-powered Chromebooks from 2010-2011. The Chrome browser in Chrome OS syncs with the Chrome browser on your Windows PC or Mac, so you can continue browsing where you left off, including bookmarks, docs, and open sites. The Chrome Web store is an integral part of the ChromeOS experience, featuring apps like Angry Birds and Netflix. Over 500 schools are using Chromebooks in daily use, and you'll start seeing businesses deploying Chromeboxes in call centers, retail stores, and clinics.