Apps Will Be a Decisive Factor
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5. The Gmail, Google Docs lover
As
with other Google products, Chrome OS makes full use of the company's many
services, including Google Docs, Gmail and others. For those who are committed
to using these cloud applications as an alternative for more expensive
on-premises applications, buying a Chromebook would be the way to go.
6. The always-connected consumer
The
biggest issue with Chromebooks is that if there isn't a Web connection
available, they're little more than expensive bricks. So, folks who anticipate
not being within range of a WiFi or 3G signal at all times won't like what they
find in Chromebooks. But those who are confident of constant connections won't
have an issue with buying a Chromebook.
7. The consumer on a budget
One
of the benefits of buying a Chromebook is its price. Acer's AC700, for example,
retails for just $349.99, while the most expensive Chromebook goes for $499.99.
At those prices, consumers on a budget who need a new computer might like what
they find in Chromebooks. After all, spending just $500 on a lightweight
computer sounds much better than spending twice that on a Mac, right?
8. The early adopter
Though
debate rages over the real value of Chromebooks, Google and its vendor partners
know all too well that there is one group that is absolutely willing to buy the
devices no matter what the quirks: early adopters. Those folks who buy products
at or around launch are already jumping at the chance to buy Chromebooks to see
if they have lasting power. As with other product launches, Chromebooks are
benefiting from early adopters.
9. The education angle
Google
has made it clear that it wants to bring Chromebooks into schools. That might
be a good idea for educational institutions. Not only are the devices extremely
cheap by school-computer standards, but they can also potentially help students
prepare for what most agree is the future: the cloud.
Though Chrome OS might not eventually rule the cloud, it could very well be
the tool students need to learn about how to navigate the cloud.
10. It has neat apps
The
importance of applications in today's mobile-computing environment cannot be
underestimated. Apple's iOS-based products, Android-based devices and, now,
Chromebooks rely heavily upon apps to be a success. Luckily for Google, its
Chrome Web Store has several popular applications, though its marketplace is
still much smaller than the App Store. However, consumers around the globe are
always looking for innovative new apps. Thanks to Google's selection of highly
popular programs, including Angry Birds, it should be able to coax some
customers to buy Chromebooks on the promise of delivering the same apps people
are enjoying on smartphones to the new Chromebooks.
