Test flights ahead for Google Chrome OS notebooks

Stephen Withers
Wednesday, 08 December 2010 11:31

IT Industry - Strategy

Google has revealed plans to put prototype Chrome OS notebooks into the hands of 'test pilots' around the world.

The first commercial Chrome OS notebooks will be available from Acer and Samsung during the first half of 2011, but Google wants some real-world feedback on its new operating system before that happens.

The company has announced a pilot program that will see it put unbranded notebooks running Chrome OS into the hands of individuals, developers, schools and businesses. Hardware features of the 'Cr-48' include 12.1in screen, full-sized keyboard, a large touchpad, webcam, and built-in 3G and Wi-Fi.

Advantages are said to include 10-second startup, automatic updates, 'defence in depth' security, and no lap burns.

But Google warns that the system is designed for those who "live on the web" using web applications such as Gmail and Google Docs rather than desktop software such as Microsoft Office.

At this stage, Google is only accepting applications from the US, but the program "will expand to other countries once we get the necessary certifications," company officials said.