The Google Chrome Cr-48 “browser-based” Netbook

The Google Chrome Cr-48 may still be a prototype, but Google are doing their best to make everyone believe it is the future.  However, is the world ready for what is really nothing more than a “browser in a box”, or are the cloud-based services of the Internet still too immature and unfamiliar to make us give up our desktops.

The Google Chrome Cr-48 features a 12.1 inch matte screen with 1280 x 800 resolution, an Intel Atom N455 processor, and the Google Chrome OS.  The rest of the specs are pretty standard for a netbook, with 2GB of DDR3 RAM, integrated Intel graphics, WiFi, Bluetooth, and a single USB 2.0 port.  In terms of storage, well – there is nothing except a 16GB SSD.

The simple and rather boring design of the exterior is a little surprising, especially when you consider the potential revolution in terms of the concept of the Cr-48.  It is clamshell, traditional,  and matte black, with a practical and understated look.   Reviewers have all said how durable the chassis feels, so it is good news in that regard.

However, the strength does mean extra bulk, which is a shame as it makes this computer very heavy – 3.8 pounds – when you consider the (lack of) technology that lies inside.  Essentially, the Chrome Cr-48 is an average Atom processor, a large battery, a couple of ports, and a web browser.  While the concept may be exciting and potentially even revolutionary, the weight doesn’t seem to add up.

If Google are right and there is a market for the “browser in a box” concept, the hardware should really match up in terms of its physicality.  If the Chrome Cr-48 looked and felt a little more like the Apple Air on the outside, the vacant interior would have made a lot more sense.

In terms of real world usage, most people lucky enough to have had some hands-on time seem very impressed with the speed of the Cr-48.  It takes only 5 seconds to reach the login screen and about 15 seconds to boot up.  Battery life is also reasonable at between 6 and 8 hours, although some other netbooks do deliver more than 10.

While the Google Chrome Cr-48 is only a concept at this stage, Google are obviously interested in making it a reality at some stage.  However, the heavy design and lack of internal storage will not appeal to many people, which essentially makes this computer a brick anytime you are away from Internet access.