Google Launches Googlebook This Fall as Premium-Only Laptop Line

3 articles · Updated · Chrome Unboxed · Jun 29

This fall’s first Googlebooks will ship only as high-end devices, with Google using the launch to reset ChromeOS from its budget Chromebook image.
Google VP John Maletis said manufacturers must meet strict baseline specs for processors, memory, storage speed and even keyboard and trackpad layouts to earn the Googlebook badge.
Dell, HP, ASUS, Acer and Lenovo will still be allowed to apply their own flagship design language, while Google keeps tighter control over software consistency and overall quality.
Google said the premium-first rollout is a starting point, not a permanent limit, and plans to move down the price ladder over time after establishing Googlebook as a top-tier brand.