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Google’s first Chromebook hit the market on June 15, 2011.
In the years since, Chromebooks and ChromeOS have come a long way. And Chromebooks should no longer be thought of as cheap laptops. No, today’s Chromebooks are increasingly compelling and worth considering alongside MacBooks and Windows PCs.
This is due to advancements in ChromeOS itself, but more importantly the steady advancement of cloud-based services. But also thanks to longer batteries. And of course at a lower cost than other computers.
So let’s take a look at the milestones of 2022 that dramatically improved the experience for Chromebook users, and see how the future of one of the most dynamic operating systems on the planet is shaping up.
1. The end of false myths about ChromeOS
The first argument typically used by Chromebook detractors is usually, “Yeah, but Chromebooks can’t handle [insérer une tâche ici]”. Usually, this task is something traditionally considered more intense, such as photo or video editing.
In fact, Chromebooks have been photo-capable for quite some time thanks to online photo editors, and even Adobe now offers an online version of Photoshop. However, it is true that it was not until 2022 that editing videos became possible.
And this via the update of the native Google Photos application. It takes care of everything from editing your existing videos to creating new video files by stitching your videos, photos and audio files together. So we’re still not at DaVinci Resolve’s level, but it’s more than the vast majority of users will ever need.
2. A fruitful ecosystem
Ask any Apple fan why they love the company’s products, and chances are they’ll tell you it’s because they “just work.”
This is largely due to Apple’s tightly integrated ecosystem, which allows for example ultra-fast pairing of devices, one-touch screen sharing or very simple management of passwords and passkeys. Users then wondered why Google, a company with an equally diverse device ecosystem, hadn’t implemented something similar.
In 2022, Google did. Now Android users and Google device owners can enjoy much the same interactivity that Apple offers with iOS and its iPhones and iPads. And sometimes it goes even further.
Whether it’s the full RCS message support on all devices, allowing you to communicate with all your friends – green bubble and blue bubble – or the incredibly useful quick-switch capabilities. he Pixel Buds Pro device, Google’s ecosystem doesn’t just copy Apple’s, it surpasses it in some ways.
3. To cloud games
Michael Gariffo/ZDNET
2022 has been a big year for cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia’s GeForce Now. Ironically, this was also the year Google shut down its own cloud gaming project, Stadia.
But it is an epiphenomenon. This failure has hardly slowed the growth of this sector, with device manufacturers like Logitech taking the plunge with its admittedly imperfect G Cloud game console, and Razer preparing its game console in cloud mode. Edge 5G for 2023. But what about those who prefer to play with a mouse and keyboard?
For those gamers, Google has partnered with Lenovo, Acer, and Asus to create the first-ever line of gaming-focused Chromebooks. This trio of devices come with enough local power to power titles like Halo Infinite, Elden Ring, Cyberpunk 2077, and Deathloop.
All of a sudden, for around $500-$600, you could have an awesome gaming experience on the go with a device that doubles as a laptop for homework or a media streaming device for streaming movies. from the couch.
4. The right way to do sustainability
June Wan/ZDNET
One of the main problems facing the technology sector is the growing amount of electronic waste. Even companies like Apple are struggling to deal with the mountains of toxic waste created by their very fast update cycles.
This year, Google has given the concept of reuse a big boost. Now, instead of throwing away your old Windows laptop or dusty MacBook, you can give it a new Chromebook life with ChromeOS Flex.
ChromeOS Flex is a Linux-based distro that can be installed on an incredibly wide range of older devices. ChromeOS’ ability to run on the modest hardware found on most Chromebooks makes it ideal for shining on older systems that can’t handle the latest macOS update or the latest Windows grind.
But what if we could build sustainability into the product life cycle from the start? Rather than saving old devices, we could create modular, long-lived laptops that, like desktop PCs, could be upgraded instead of thrown away.
This idea has already been tested, and the concept may have reached its peak this year with the Framework Chromebook, a fully modular Chromebook that lets you replace virtually any part with no more difficulty than assembling a Lego. The modular design, combined with ChromeOS that can run on just about anything, makes this a machine that’s very hard to throw away.
5. Tackle both ends of the market
June Wan/ZDNET
As mentioned above, Chromebooks are often seen as a cheap alternative to traditional laptops. While it’s true that there’s a great lineup of budget models out there, 2022 has demonstrated that there’s a price for Chromebooks to suit everyone, including those looking for a more premium machine.
Want a sturdy, portable, and inexpensive model that can double as both a homework productivity monster and a mobile gaming powerhouse? Try the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 3, which looks like a tablet and has a surprisingly capable foldable keyboard. Do you need a bit more high-end computer that can serve as your main system during your business trips or other professional activities? Why not go for the HP Chromebook Elite Dragonfly?
Even parents on a shoestring budget who need a nigh-indestructible Chromebook for their kids have solid options like the Dell Chromebook 3100.
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