Google's Chrome OS and Samsung's Chromebook

Could you ditch your computer operating system and live entirely in your browser? That's the question Google is asking with its new Chrome OS Chromebooks -- and it isn't an easy one to answer.

Google 's Chrome OS revolves around the idea of a cloud -centric existence. Every application you need runs on the Web, whether it's a productivity tool like Google Docs or a game like Angry Birds. Your documents, files and email are all stored online in services like Google Docs, Dropbox and Gmail. The PC itself becomes a mere vessel to your virtual life; you could smash it and replace it with a new one and you wouldn't notice a difference.

Google gave us a glimpse at the Chrome OS concept with its Cr-48 notebook , a test system sent out to a limited group of beta users last year. The hardware on the new commercial Chromebooks has been significantly improved since that system, and Chrome OS itself has evolved considerably , too.

Now, Google's first two Chromebooks -- one made by Samsung, one by Acer -- are both available today. But is a Chromebook right for you? Here's a detailed look at Samsung's new Chromebook computer and the kind of experience the Chrome OS provides.

Samsung Chromebook: Hardware and design

Google's Chromebooks are available in two basic models : the Samsung Series 5 Chromebook and the Acer Chromebook. Both come in two versions: Wi-Fi only, or Wi-Fi with 3G. I was able to test the 3G model of the Samsung Chromebook.

The Samsung Chromebook features a 12.1-in. 1280 x 800 display. The screen is bright and easy to read; its matte finish is a pleasant change from the glossy screens on most notebooks these days, particularly in outside or otherwise glary conditions.

At 3.26 lb., the Samsung Chromebook is slightly lighter than the Cr-48 test system that came before it -- that notebook weighed in at 3.8 lb. In terms of design, however, we're looking at a night-and-day difference. Whereas the Cr-48 had a minimalistic and angular matte black exterior, the Samsung Chromebook has a smooth and glossy top with rounded edges and a colorful Chrome logo. The system is available in either an "Arctic White" or a "Titan Silver" finish. Both options are classy and sleek.

The left side of the Samsung Chromebook has a 3.5mm headphone jack along with a USB port and a mini-VGA port (a standard VGA adapter is included). One low point: The plastic cover protecting the USB and VGA ports feels a bit flimsy, like it might snap off after a few months of regular use.

Samsung Series 5 Chromebook now shipping in Arctic White — Titan ...

We already knew it was prior to entrance — Samsung was not quite bashful about a fooling around — however a large day has in conclusion arrived, as well as a Series 5 Chromebook is strictly shipping to people energetically available a Google-powered mobile computer.

If we weren’t upon a list of high-end banking clippers just who snatched a single up by a warn sale during Gilt multiform weeks ago, we is right away means to collect up a Chromebook inside of your own.

HWM

Flat Panel Display Materials - Trends and Forecasts 2009 Edition, Translated from Japanese

Samsung Electronics, the Global Inc

HWM

HWM