Google Chrome laptops delayed in release to consumers

 Google have announced that they are delaying the retail release of their first computers, using their Chrome operating system. The Chrome laptops are now expected to be launched commercially six months later than originally anticipated.

 

One of the reasons cited is that Google are allowing more time for their engineers to tweak the software involved. The new time frame will see the computers land in stores in mid 2011. The company had previously stated they would be available at the end of 2010.

 

Google Chrome, the web browser launched in 2008 and formulated by Google themselves, which as of December 2010 was ranked the third most widely used web browser in the world, forms the centrepiece of the new operating system.

 

A select few businesses and consumers will assess some of the laptops, which will not be carrying the Google brand name, before the actual market debut. The laptops will initially be manufactured by Acer and Samsung. The decision on the retail price of these will be made by the manufacturers themselves.

 

Some of the features of the Chrome operating system computers will be a regular sized keyboard with a 12.1 inch display. However, some programmes will require access to the internet as there will be no hard drive on the Chrome OS machines.

 

Verizon Communications are formulating a deal with the search engine giants to sell web access over their wireless network. The provisional deal is not expected to require a binding contract from the consumer, and will cost just £6.30 per month (US$9.99).