Acer to launch Chrome OS devices in two weeks (exclusive)

May 13, 2010 | Devindra Hardawar and Matthaus Krzykowski
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It’s been some time since we received any new details on Chrome OS, Google’s web-focused operating system for netbooks. But that’s about to change in a couple weeks. We’ve learned from multiple sources that the Taiwanese computer manufacturer Acer will launch Chrome OS devices at the Computex Taipei show, which will be held from June 1 to June 5.

We don’t yet know what devices Acer will be launching. Chrome OS is designed for netbooks, but Google has also mentioned the possibility of bringing it to other device types like smartbooks and tablets running ARM processors. Smartbooks look like netbooks but run processors like those from ARM which are designed for mobile devices. Recently, there’s been talk of Samsung developing ARM-based smartbooks running Chrome OS, as well as support for nVidia Tegra 2 devices.

It’s still unclear how Chrome OS-equipped netbooks will coexist with those running Google’s Android mobile operating system. We’ve known since early 2009 that Android netbooks would begin popping up this year, and even Acer announced its intention to sell them.

My prediction? Google will probably settle on Android for tablets eventually — it’s already built for multitouch support, and its analogous to Apple bringing the iPhone OS to the iPad. Android’s small footprint also makes it easy to use in integrated devices, like Google’s upcoming “Dragonpoint”  TV project with Sony and Intel. Chrome OS, which is clearly better suited for devices with keyboards and trackpads, will find itself on more netbooks and smartbooks. Last year, Google CEO Eric Schmidt mentioned that the two projects will merge over time (see Google’s graphic below), so eventually the differences might not matter.

Google initially planned to release Chrome OS sometime in the second half of this year. Acer’s Chrome OS device launch in early June fits into that schedule, although we’re not sure when those devices will be available for purchase.

[Image via PhysOrg]


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  • Oh and one more thing... Android netbooks were, are and will never be important. Acers dualboot netbook with Android never really sold in numbers.
  • saffar
    YOUR COMMENTS ARE NICE
  • Once Acer starts using ARM, they get significant battery improvements, thinner, faster bootups and most importantly cheaper.

    The Acer Android Netbook failed because it used Intel Atom. What's the point?
  • ARM should be the one, unless Acer stays in bed with Intel and Microsoft.

    If they announce it with Pixel Qi as well, hear the drum rolls:

    1. 50h battery runtime

    2. Instant on, month of standby

    3. Below 800gr, 1cm width

    4. Below $199 retail, no contracts, they sell tens of millions?

    5. Built-in 3G module (maybe not included by default) for always connected use

    6. Native Code SDK and OpenGL for even advanced video-editing and 3D games

    7. Maybe even a swivel screen and the device holds like an e-reader? Touch-screen not absolute necessity for cheap model. Next/previous page and enter/exit buttons on the side would be good enough.
  • leniamonio
    Actually, we have a report before that google will market its own chrome netbook as well.

    This could be fun!
  • there will be an Acer tablet at Computex and they will also show a Chrome OS netbook.
    Just believe me guys ;)
  • Tell us more!
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