Apple's MacBook gets a cheaper new rival, and it's not powered by Windows 11
The Chromebook is back and it promises more power at a very cheap price.
Can't afford a MacBook and hate Windows 11? Google hopes that an all-new Chromebook might convince you to try something totally new. This latest model - called the Chromebook Plus 14 - has been created by the team at Lenovo and now features a MediaTek Kompanio Ultra processor which makes this one of the most powerful Chrome laptops ever made.
Thanks to its ARM architecture, this chip is also super efficient with owners getting around 17 hours of battery life before needing to find a plug. There's a pin-sharp 14-inch OLED screen, quad speakers with Dolby Atmos, plenty of ports and a backlit keyboard for working when the lights get low. It even features a fan-free design to keep things silent under pressure, and there's the latest Wi-Fi 7 technology for faster access to the web.
Of course, this is a Chromebook, so it comes packed with smart features that are powered by Google.
There's instant photo editing, quick web searches via Google Lens, image creation tools and the ability to simplify long text via a function called Help me read.
Because it's a Chromebook, there's also full access to all of Google's apps, including Gmail, Docs, Sheets and Google Photos plus there are millions of extra Android apps available via the Play Store.
So, how much will it cost? The entry-level model starts from £599. That price rises if you add more RAM and storage.
“Our society has embraced the freedom of hybrid and remote work, but that freedom demands the workforce and their devices to be productive regardless of location and to do more in less time,” said Benny Zhang, Executive Director and General Manager of Chromebooks in Lenovo’s Intelligent Devices Group.
“The Lenovo Chromebook Plus (14”, 10) delivers the most powerful AI capabilities ever on a Chromebook. Whether you are an executive needing AI performance through the day, an artist wishing to create outside the studio, or an everyday user looking to browse, learn or play, this premium device is your perfect everyday companion.”
It's available now.