Chrome devices are a new type of computer with the single goal to get you on the web as fast as possible. They’re faster, simpler, and more secure than traditional computers, and are available as laptops and standalone desktops. If you’re the kind of person to do everything online, Chrome devices will help you stay connected and get more out of the web.
What makes Chrome devices different?
Here are some things to keep in mind, if you’re considering whether a Chrome device is right for you:
- All your work is done in a browser.
Send mail, edit photos, create documents — you can do all of these activities in the browser, thanks to thousands of apps on the web. There’s no complicated software to install. - All your stuff is saved on the web.
Everything -- your apps, documents, settings -- are all stored safely on the web, and not on the device. So you’ll have constant access to your stuff even if you're using another computer. - You can surf the web anytime, anywhere.
Chrome devices connect quickly to your preferred wireless or wired networks. Some Chromebook models also come with built-in mobile broadband access, so you can get online anywhere you can make a phone call. - Chrome devices start up fast and last all day long.
Chrome devices start up quickly and resume instantly from sleep. Your favorite websites load quickly, with full support for the latest web standards and Adobe Flash. Last but not least, you don’t need to worry about power because the battery lasts all day. - Your device will always be up-to-date.
Each time you turn your Chrome device on, it automatically updates itself with the latest features, hardware and system updates, and anti-virus software. - You can safely share your device, not your information.
People can sign in with their own Google Accounts on your device to access their own Chrome apps, bookmarks, and settings. Or they can browse the web as a guest, without signing in. Either way, your personal files are never accessible outside your account. - You are protected by built-in security.
Each webpage and application you visit runs in a restricted environment. So visiting one page that’s been infected with something malicious can’t affect anything else on your computer.
Types of devices
Chrome devices come in two different flavors:
- Chromebooks are lightweight laptops that let you take the web with you wherever you go.
- Chromeboxes are highly configurable home or office devices.
Under the hood: The Chrome operating system
All Chrome devices are powered by the Google Chrome operating system, which has been developed to provide a fast, simple, and more secure computing experience for people who spend most of their time on the web.
If you’re a web developer, you may want to explore Chromium OS, the open-source version of the operating system. Find out more about the project at http://www.chromium.org/chromium-os.
Next steps
- Visit the Chrome device website to learn more about available features. There, you’ll find information on purchasing a device.
- If you use a Chrome device as part of an organization, such as at work or school, your Chrome device might be managed by your network administrator. Learn more about managed Chrome devices
