Google’s Chromebook Pixel Hits the Stands at $1,299

The latest addition to Google’s still rather meager collection of Chrome devices is the Chromebook Pixel. This surprisingly more sophisticated device goes for what would still be a reasonable $1,299 given its many new and better features. You get more storage for the more pricey version offered at $1,449. Here’s an offer to spice up the deal. Immediate takers get three years of 1 terabyte cloud storage with Google Drive. They say this device is comparable to Nexus smartphones and tablets.

The Chrome OS and browser are touch-enabled and everything can be accomplished with the swipe of a finger. Early reviews and manufacturer descriptions claim that this device is even more responsive than former Chromebook versions. Google commissioned this netbook with an ODM partner (they’re not saying who) for the “best possible Chromebook experience.” It is still up to consumers though to decide whether or not the 3.35-pound Pixel delivers in this respect.

Full-featured

The reason why Chromebook Pixel is worth the rather hefty investment is that it is truly state-of-the art. Here are the main features of this exciting new device:

➢ 299 ppi multi-touch screen
➢ 12.84” display with a record pixel density and an impressive 4.3 million pixels
➢ 400 nits screen brightness
➢ 4GB RAM
➢ 1.8 GHz dual core i5 processor
➢ Flash storage (128GB/256GB)
➢ Built-in virus protection
➢ Built-in LTE with superior 4G connectivity

The general features may be awesome, but with all the pluses there are some minuses to be expected. This Chromebook only has over five hours of battery life and the general consensus is that is not nearly enough.

Better looking

We can attribute the considerable price tag to the obvious improvement in hardware. The body is made using fine solid anodized aluminum alloy. The touchpad utilizes a 0.55 mm thick laser-etched Gorilla® glass that promises “exceptional smoothness and accuracy.” It exudes a very sophisticated high-tech appearance when closed with the color bar displaying red to indicate low power levels (and blue otherwise). The design choice for the piano hinge is said to boost Pixel’s Wi-Fi connectivity and performance. There are a few more extra features, like the lid being embedded with a couple of microphones and a 720p webcam.

Keyboard updates

This latest Chrome OS device has additional feature highlights. It appears that the designers put a lot of thought in making a better set for this new device. The keyboard is backlit and responds to the available ambient light which is a feature that is not present in the earlier Chromebooks. The stereo speakers are neatly hidden under the keyboards. And in addition to that, improvements were made on the dome underneath the keys, improving the overall feel of the keys. Another keyboard modification is the installation of a microphone that reduces noise production. This enables the user to engage in more optimized online Hangouts.

The Chrome Web Store would have to produce more apps to complement the improvements seen in Chromebook Pixel. High performance apps seem to be the only ingredient lacking so that Chromebook users can make the most of Pixel’s impressive specifications.