Google took a major leap forward with the release of its CR-48 Notebook with Chrome. At the moment, the CR-48 is only available to people who are participating in Google’s “Pilot Program,” which is intended to generate feedback on the new Chrome OS. This is an entirely web-based operating system which does away with traditional software.
Let’s hope everything goes well, because this is one incredible machine.
The CR-48 moves quick – taking just 10 seconds to boot up and returning from sleep almost instantaneously. Since it is designed to live on the internet, it comes with a standard Wi-Fi connection as well as an option to link up to the Verizon 3G network. Both of these work well, and deliver content at Google’s characteristic breakneck speed. The notebook also packs a webcam and 12 inch screen into a 3.8 lb package that does not have any spinning disks.
Despite its crisp looks and impressive performance, the CR-48 is still a work in progress. It only has one USB input, for example, and uses a three-pronged plug (which is inconvenient if you are on the go and can’t find one). There are also some bugs that need to be worked out of the new Chrome OS, and it can take users a while to adapt to working with an online-only system. Furthermore, it may be some time until there is an established web-software market, and this can be a major concern for users who work on graphics or web design.
Overall this is a really fun gizmo, and it’s worth trying to get them to send you one if you can. There is an application process on Google’s website which takes about 10-15 minutes, and they use the information you submit to decide if you might be a good source of feedback for their project. If you want to try out Google’s newest gadget and think you would be interested in helping them develop Chrome OS, send in an application and keep your fingers crossed.
Harriette Halepis, March 2, 2011
This is the first review I've read about the Google laptop -- well done! Now, to get Google to send me a free laptop...thanks for the info!
Brandon Nolte, March 10, 2011
Do you know when they will begin selling these to the public? They are still testing them now right?
Mona, March 10, 2011
OK, when I read about this system coming out I got real excited. I'm keeping up but don't want to waste money on something I won't be pleased. Excluding the couple of quirks sounds like a dream, especially speed.
Bas de Groen, March 14, 2011
Google is to late with his cloud os. Ther is an other os called jolicloud. it is to an cloud os and build on google chrome but it is more like an pc with an desktop and wallpaper. And it´s free to download
William, March 21, 2011
While I enjoy products that google has offered to me "free use" I'm reluctant to use a web only os only because storage issues meaning that my files saved to google accounts can be seen by the public with a little extra work so its mainly privacy that concerns me but the idea is great and I would still like to test this because it could begin a new era in the way we live digital lives although I know cloud computing is not new but when google puts their stamp on it it is bound to succeed I will be filing an application to test and contribute to this idea Thanks, William
Nakul Mehra, March 25, 2011
India's far behind in Internet bandwidth. Relying completely on an online OS isn't the wisest option for at least the next 10 years!
Neil Wheatley, April 1, 2011
Is that a VGA port I see? :O I think Chrome OS is a pretty exciting idea. This is the first I've heard of the Google notebook so good work fellas.
Gil Gonzalez, April 6, 2011
The Pilot program for the CR 48 is now closed. Google is no longer accepting applications.
gerry, April 7, 2011
I can't wait until the laptop come out.
Vinson, April 10, 2011
The new google laptop sounds great, BUT, it only has one usb port? It would be great if it was at least a new usb 3.0 port. Just a lack of few connections concerns me a little. 2 usb 3.0 ports, and a hdmi port would be the best, and it should be equip with blue tooth as well as the wireless. But i do love the new idea by google.