Joynt: New Samsung series boasts Google’s Chrome OS

http://www.tech.sc/google-introduces-samsung-series-5-and-acer-chrome-os-netbooks-called-chromebooks/

http://www.tech.sc/google-introduces-samsung-series-5-and-acer-chrome-os-netbooks-called-chromebooks/

Jordan Joynt

Google and Samsung have teamed up to introduce a series of computers using Google’s Chrome OS, a cloud-based operating system. The Chromebook lineup is a series of laptops, and the Chromebox, is a desktop, both of which are manufactured by Samsung.

The Chrome OS is designed to boot up quickly and load web pages faster than most operating systems in use today. Google boasts a built-in cloud network with Google Drive, a fast system start-up, and the Chrome Web Store for easy app access.

Google Drive allows users to access their files from any of their devices. The service gives users 5 GB of storage for free. Paid storage upgrades include 25 GB for $2.50/month, 100 GB for $4.99/month, and progressively more storage up to 16 TB.

It can also serve as a way to share your files with friends and provides a way to edit files using Google Docs. Google Drive provides safe storage for your files in case something were to happen to any of your devices.

Samsung’s Series 5 notebooks come with built-in WiFi and optional 3G coverage with flexible internet plans. The laptops have 12.1 LED screens, Intel processors, and DDR3 memory.

The Chromebox is 7.6 sq. inches and has similar internal specifications to the Chromebook including the 1.9GHz Intel Celeron B840 processor and 4 GB of DDR3 ram. There are also multiple ports and connection options including 6 USB ports and 2 DVI ports.

The Chrome OS emphasizes music and video streaming on the devices with services such as Google Play and Youtube. Many apps come pre-loaded, including productivity applications and software used for presentations.

Many more applications can be downloaded from the Chrome Web Store as well. With Google’s Chrome Remote Desktop, you are able to access and run software stored on any of your other computers.

The OS will also have built-in security and antivirus software which updates automatically without setup requirements. The Chromebook’s pricing starts at $349.99 and the Chromebox will start at $329.99.