Often when I write about Chromebooks, someone calls someone with a comment about how these are not ‘real’ laptops, and it would be better if people bought a Windows machine. If I was writing about a Chromebook costing more than $ 400, someone would necessarily complain that it’s too much money to spend on a laptop with a paralyzed operating system.
But the thing about Chrome OS is that it’s an operating system like any other. As noted by Chromebooks in a recent comment on the subject, Google emphasizes speed, simplicity, and security. Chrome OS works pretty well on entry-level hardware, but like most operating systems, it works even better on devices with faster processors or more RAM. And things like high quality screens, keyboards and touch pads cost money.
Not everyone wants to use an operating system designed in a web browser. But nowadays, many Windows and Mac users spend most of their time in a web browser anyway, and Chromebooks can also use Android and Linux applications.
While Chromebooks may not be the best option for everyone, the question of why there are expensive models is like asking why there are expensive Windows laptops. Of course, I’m sure there are people asking the question, especially when we see new models with price tags north of $ 3,500.
Here is an overview of recent technological news (and opinions) from around the internet.
- Best Buy has just laid off 5,000 workers and will close more stores [CNN]
Just days after Fry’s announced it was closing a store, Best Buy announced layoffs and store closures. But this is probably not the end of Best Buy as much as the last step in a transition. 40% of its sales are now online, up from 19% two years ago. - FCC Approves $ 50 Monthly High Speed Subsidy [The New York Times]
The FCC has approved a program that will provide up to $ 50 a month to low-income households to help offset the cost of broadband Internet. Households in Native American countries qualify for up to $ 75 per month. - This is the Galaxy XCover 5, Samsung’s next robust smartphone [@evleaks]
Samsung Galaxy XCover 5 rugged smartphone leaked, with 5.3 inches, 1600 x 900 screen, Exynos 850 CPU, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage, 4 G LTE support and a rugged buffer sleeve. - The case for expensive Chromebooks [About Chromebooks]
In a nutshell, these are laptops with Chrome OS. Why would they not be available just like Windows, Mac or Linux laptops at different price points?
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