It seems that Samsung is paying attention to what the people — or rather, Chromebook users — want.
This is evidenced by the new Chromebook Pro updated with a backlit keyboard, a feature that addresses one of the biggest complaints about it.
Chromebook Pro's Quiet Upgrade
Over at Samsung's website, it posted a new listing headlined with "Samsung Chromebook Pro with Backlit Keyboard."
Compared with the previous version, there isn't anything new aside from the illuminated keyboard. That means it's powered by the same Intel Core m3-6Y30 processor from 2017, 4 GB of RAM, and 32 GB of native storage. The screen isn't changing either. It's still the 12.3-inch LED display with a 2,400 x 1,600 resolution, which is a good thing since it's among the best out there.
Now the same goes for the price. Just like the first Chromebook Pro, it'll set users back by $599. That's good for new buyers, more or less. That could be bad news for those who bought the earlier model (XE510C24-K01US), though. Had they waited several more months before purchasing it, they could've gotten the newer one with backlit keys. For the record, no one really knew Samsung was going to update the device, and it didn't even announce it.
Why The Update Is A Big Deal
Many users in the market for a Chromebook set their sights on the Chromebook Pro when it was unveiled. However, the lack of a backlit keyboard was more than enough reason for them to look elsewhere.
According to Chrome Unboxed, a lot of people chose the Asus C302 because of its backlit keys. That's despite Samsung's laptop offering a better screen and a bundled stylus to boot.
Another complaint that plagues the Chromebook Pro is that the travel of the keys is way too short. On the newer version's product page, there's no mention of adding more distance for this. In other words, it's unclear whether Samsung improved on this or not.
Long Story Short
To sum things up, there's a new Chromebook Pro in town, and it addresses at least one of the two biggest complaints about it. However, it's identical to the first model, so aside from a backlit keyboard, it's going to deliver the same experience and performance.
Sure, the slight tweak is nothing to grumble about. It just would've been nicer to see more upgrades under the hood or something along those lines.
