Google is launching a brand new line of PCs that not only sell for less than $100, but also offer the ability to turn any LCD display into a functioning PC. Wired.com reports that the new products are scheduled to hit the market this summer and these are guaranteed to sell fast.
The Asus Chromebit runs on Chrome OS, Google's own operating system, and it's somewhat similar to the Chromecast. Chromecast is a digital stick that plugs into your TV and is designed to allow it to play stream media from the web. However, the Chromebit will offer much more functionality.
This powerful device is about the size of a cigar, and will offer the ability to run word processors, spreadsheet programs, stream video, and much more. It's designed to work hand in hand with any LCD display module and allow it to function as an operational PC.
Cesar Sengupta is Google's VP in charge of Chrome OS distribution, and his vision for the Chromebit reaches far beyond just a simple home computer. He pointed out that it was the perfect tool for use in Internet cafes, school labs, and business conference rooms.
The Chromebit is part of an entire lineup of products designed to help push the Chrome OS. The operating system is based on Google's Chrome web browser, and it links seamlessly with applications such as GMail, YouTube, and Google Drive.
The major benefit of devices like the Chromebit are the ability to use applications like Google's word processing programs directly on the web and eliminate large software programs that currently fill our hard drives. According to Google, this will also aid in tightening security for our important personal or business files.
Google is pushing hard to challenge Microsoft for a piece of the market relating to educational and business applications. Other products in the lineup for this big launch are laptops, priced at just $149, from Haier and Hisense. These laptops will be marketed through Walmart and Amazon.com, which will make them readily available to the public.
Microsoft has answered the Chromebit with a device of its own from Intel. According to ArsTechnica.com, the device, called the Intel Compute Stick, will bring Windows to TV's and other types of LCD displays. Dell has a similar product called the Wyse Cloud Connect, and it is even closer in resemblance to the Chromebit in terms of functionality.
Technology has come a long way in recent years. The advent of the Internet has made information readily available to almost everyone in the world. With the use of inexpensive devices like the Chromebit more people than ever before will be able to use the web to complete everyday tasks more efficiently.
