Google has announced its new Chromebook Pixel, the latest in the Chromebook line of computers running Google's Chrome OS.
The computer offers a number of improvements and new features over the previous Chromebook Pixel. In many ways, it's the computer of the future.
Design
The first thing to note about the computer is its design, which perhaps leaves a lot to be desired. The Chromebook line has never been the most intense in terms of design, and the new Chromebook Pixel is no exception. It has harsh corners and edges and is a little too thick for comfort, especially when the likes of the new MacBook are available.
The point of Google's Chromebook is certainly not the design, however. It's about pushing the boundaries, and it certainly does this.
Ports
Only a few days after Apple unveiled its new MacBook, featuring one single USB Type-C port, Google's Chromebook Pixel also makes use of the new technology, both for data transfer and for charging. This highlights the fact that USB Type-C does not just mean a future of reversible high-speed data transfer, but it also means universal chargers.
The Chromebook Pixel features two of these ports, as well as two USB 3.0 ports and an SD card reader.
Memory and Storage
The Chromebook Pixel features 8GB of RAM, which should be plenty given the applications that this computer will be used for.
It also features 32GB of flash storage, highlighting the notion that these computers are aimed at being used with cloud-based services. Users should be connected to the Internet often, and utilize apps such as Google Docs and Sheets for things like taking notes or working in an office. This is clearly not the right computer for high-powered gaming or for things like graphic design or audio work.
Other
The processor in the computer is an Intel Core i5 processor, more than enough for what this computer will be used for.
It's also important to mention the touch screen on the computer, which adds an extra layer of input to the device. It is mainly looking toward the future, and the likelihood of Google bringing Android and Chrome OS closer together in the near future.
Conclusions
The Chromebook Pixel is pointed at the future. It features innovative ports, a touch screen, and is clearly positioned to be used in conjunction with online storage and apps.
For those who like the idea of cloud-based apps and storage and who are already heavy users of Google's services, the Chromebook Pixel is quite possibly the computer for them.
