The "Google Laptop" and Chrome OS

Google recently released their Web Browser based Operating System, the Chrome OS. Simply put, the Chrome OS is said to be a full operating system revolving around the Chrome web browser with additional applications called Web Apps that can be accessed directly from the OS itself. The aim of the OS is to build a computing environment that's directly connected to the Internet. Or if you're rather cynical about it, Google.

With the debut of the Chrome OS comes Google's Chrome-based laptop, the Cr-48. It's a brand-less laptop (although they say Samsung and Acer will be producing the future line of laptops) and these are still test units. It has a 12.1 inch display, weighs around 3.8 pounds, has a full-sized QWERTY keyboard with the caps lock replaced by a search key, and an over-sized trackpad much like the ones in the Macbook line-up. The OS boots up almost automatically from start-up and the response is quick.

I want to have a test unit, but according to Yugatech, sign-ups for the test program are only for U.S. residents. My only concern is the productivity suit of this OS, especially for us students who not only need the Internet but need to work as well. 

CNET has already made a preview of the Cr-48 which can be found here.