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Chromebook

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A Chromebook is a specific line of computing devices including laptops, desktops, tablets, and all-in-one computers.

Samsung Chromebook
Samsung Chromebook

These machines run ChromeOS, which is a proprietary operating system developed by Google. The primary goal of a Chromebook is to be optimized for web access. While they are designed for the internet, they can also run Android apps and Linux applications. They also support progressive web apps that function without an internet connection. Because they rely heavily on the web, most data is stored in the cloud rather than just on the local hard drive. This allows users to access their information from almost any device by signing into a Google account.

The way a Chromebook operates is centered on its unique software architecture. ChromeOS is built using the Linux kernel and features the Google Chrome web browser. Instead of installing traditional software that might carry a risk of malware, users typically install web apps from the Chrome Web Store. Google uses a multi-layer security architecture to protect these devices. This system is designed to eliminate the need for separate anti-virus software. To handle different types of software, the system uses specialized tools. For example, it uses a virtual machine named Crostini to run Linux desktop applications. It also uses a virtual machine called ArcVM to run Android apps, which helps improve security and maintainability through environment isolation.

Chromebooks come in many different form factors to suit different needs. The most common version is the standard laptop. However, there are other specialized shapes. The Chromebox is an ultra small-form-factor desktop PC, first introduced by Samsung in May 2012.

LG Electronics introduced the Chromebase, an all-in-one desktop, in January 2014. There was also the Chromebit, an HDMI stick PC from Asus, though manufacturers stopped making that version by 2019. In March 2018, Acer introduced the Chromebook Tab 10, which is a tablet designed to compete in the education market.

Cr-48 Chromebook cropped
Cr-48 Chromebook cropped

The history of the Chromebook began at the Google I/O conference on May 11, 2011. At that event, Acer and Samsung announced the first models for sale.

Samsung Chromebook
Samsung Chromebook

These devices began shipping to customers on June 15, 2011. Early prices ranged from $349 to $499 depending on the specific model and 3G capabilities. Initially, some technology reviewers were skeptical of the devices. They compared them unfavorably to laptops running the Microsoft Windows operating system. However, this criticism faded as companies like Acer and Samsung released much lower-priced machines. By 2013, other major manufacturers like Lenovo and HP entered the market.

Chromebooks have seen massive success in specific sectors, particularly education. By March 2018, Chromebooks accounted for 60% of all computers purchased by schools in the United States.

PVUSD student using GoogleApps
PVUSD student using GoogleApps

This success helped the platform grow its overall presence. As of 2020, Chromebooks held a 10.8% market share, which placed them above the Mac platform. Google also provides long-term support for these devices. Since 2021, all Chromebooks receive 10 years of regular automatic updates and security patches. This is an increase from the previous 8-year support period, which itself was an improvement over the original 6.5 years of support.

In recent years, Google has introduced higher-end hardware categories. On October 9, 2023, Google announced the Chromebook Plus category.

Google Pixelbook
Google Pixelbook

These machines must meet specific minimum hardware requirements to earn the name. They require a CPU such as an Intel Core i3 12th Gen or an AMD Ryzen 3 7000 series. They must also have at least 8 GB of RAM and 128 GB of local storage. Additionally, they require a 1080p IPS display or better and a 1080p+ web camera. These higher specifications allow users to perform more intensive tasks, such as video editing with LumaFusion or using web versions of Adobe Photoshop.

Because of their design, Chromebooks connect to the broader digital ecosystem very easily. They support many Bluetooth and USB devices like mice, cameras, and external keyboards. This works through a feature similar to plug-and-play found on other operating systems. Users can also use "developer mode" to install different Linux distributions. Some devices even include SeaBIOS, which allows users to boot Linux distributions directly. Whether through a simple tablet or a powerful Chromebook Plus, these devices remain a major part of how people access the internet and educational tools today.

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🖼️ Images & Media (8)
File:Samsung Chromebook Series 3 internals.JPG
Samsung Chromebook Series 3 internals.JPG
File:ChromebookStaplesStore.jpg
ChromebookStaplesStore.jpg
File:PVUSD student using GoogleApps.jpg
PVUSD student using GoogleApps.jpg
File:Cr-48 Chromebook cropped.jpg
Cr-48 Chromebook cropped.jpg
File:Chromebook Pixel (WiFi) open.JPG
Chromebook Pixel (WiFi) open.JPG
File:Google Pixelbook.jpg
Google Pixelbook.jpg
File:Samsung Chromebook.jpg
Samsung Chromebook.jpg
File:Samsung-Chromebook-box.jpg
Samsung-Chromebook-box.jpg
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