SHINE UP THAT NEW CHROME: Google (and Samsung) have launched a new Chromebook and Chromebox targeted at the educational and corporate markets. Although Chromebooks have received a muted welcome in the past, GigaOM contends that this version is better: Starting at $449, the new Chromebook has better battery life, processor speed, and memory capacity than its predecessors. (A 3G modem bumps the price to $529). The Chromebox, with an entry level price of $329, has been likened to Apple's Mac Mini--at least aesthetically. Both will run an upgraded Chrome OS, which promises to be 2.5x faster, along with a more friendly interface that resembles a desktop and allows for multiple browser windows (yay!). Price will still be a challenge especially for schools weighing whether to use tablets or laptops.
