Google has unveiled its first touchscreen-enabled laptop.
The Chromebook Pixel runs Google's Chrome operating system and
has been "largely built" by the web giant.
The laptop has Intel's Ivy Bridge processors, fast 4G LTE
connectivity and a high-resolution screen aimed at challenging Apple's Retina
Display.
Analysts say the move represents a fresh bid to build market
share for Chromebooks against machines running Microsoft and Apple operating
systems.
Unlike PCs that use installed software such as Microsoft Word,
Chrome OS computers run their applications through the firm's web browser and
store their files in the cloud.
The internet giant told the BBC the device was "largely
built by Google, with components that are manufactured globally".
The laptop's 12.85in (32.64cm) display's resolution is similar
to the so-called Retina Display of Apple's MacBook range, aimed to have pixel
density high enough for the human eye not to notice pixelation when looking at
the screen at a typical viewing distance.
"This Chromebook has the highest pixel density (239 pixels
per inch) of any laptop screen on the market today," said the company.
"Packed with 4.3 million pixels, the display offers sharp
text, vivid colours and extra-wide viewing angles.
Embracing the cloud
The first Chrome-powered laptop, built by Samsung, went on sale
in June 2011. Chrome laptops that followed were made by Acer, Lenovo and HP.
But so far, Chromebooks have had difficulties challenging
Windows-powered computers, said CCS Insight analyst Geoff Blaber.
"Chromebooks have struggled for relevance to date, stuck
between comparably-priced but entertainment-centric tablets - many of which run
Android - and more functional PCs," he said.
"[The new computer] won't transform its prospects but
Google will hope it serves as a flagship device that has a halo effect for the
broader portfolio."
Windows 8, Microsoft's latest operating system launched last
year, has touchscreen capabilities.
Mr Blaber said: "Touch is now pervasive across every
computing category from phones to high-end PCs.
"The challenge for the Chromebook is that computing is shifting
towards tablets whilst most consumers lives are not yet fully embracing the
cloud versus local storage."
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