Acer Designs Chromebook 14 for Work to Tap Corporate Demand

Chromebook 14 for Work is a lightweight notebook that runs on the Chrome OS and comes with a hardened shell so it can be used outdoors by field service workers.

Google’s Chrome OS has become a surprising success in the enterprise. The operating system relies on the cloud for application and data access, but uses all of Google’s enterprise-friendly applications to make it a suitable option for the office. In addition, it works with third-party applications. Chrome OS isn’t on the same level as Windows 10 in terms of power and capability. But for companies that don’t require all of Windows 10′ bells and whistles, it does a fine job. That’s precisely why Acer’s Chromebook 14 for Work relies on it.

Acer’s notebook is the first Chromebook to come with a Corning Gorilla Glass top cover, which is designed to keep the top of the case safe from dings and scratches. In addition, the device has a thin design and a small bezel around the screen. The keyboard is somewhat small, but it’s flanked by an oversized touchpad.

Acer was quick to point out on April 21 that it’s offering the fastest Chromebook on the market. The Chromebook 14 for Work comes with sixth-generation Intel Core i processors, though the exact chip will vary depending on the model customers choose and the market they’re in. Regardless, expect the Chromebook 14 for Work to be a speedy alternative to other Chromebooks and even lightweight Windows notebooks.

Although the Chromebook 14 for Work has the chassis of a 13-inch notebook, the company was able to squeeze a 14-inch screen into the device by reducing the size of the bezels on the left and right sides. The screen comes with Full HD resolution, as well as wide-angle viewing. And thanks to a USB-C port, users can output their content to high-resolution displays.

The battery life built into the Chromebook 14 for Work should satisfy any corporate need. According to Acer, the battery will last 13 hours on typical use. However, like any computer design, the device’s actual battery life could vary, depending on how people use it.

In an interesting twist, Acer is offering customized versions of its Chromebook 14 for Work. Most other companies launch Chromebooks and simply ship out whatever they’ve designed. However, Acer says that since the device is designed for corporate users, it will allow companies to order versions with their corporate logo or “other stylized graphics.” There is one caveat: companies must hit a minimum order threshold to get the customization option. Acer hasn’t said what that threshold is.

Acer believes that its Chromebook 14 for Work could be a suitable option for video conferencing. The company said that the device’s front-facing camera provides wide-angle HD video capture. In addition, Acer has bundled dual-array digital microphones that drown out background noise. In the corporate world, those kinds of features matter.

Since this is a slim, lightweight notebook, it’s perhaps no surprise that Acer has gone with the versatile USB 3.1 Type-C connection in the Chromebook 14 for Work. This port will enable users to charge the device and get faster data transfers. As noted, the port also supports video output.

Acer said that its keyboard is spill-resistant and has been hardened to safeguard its internal components from a fall. In fact, the top case can handle up to 132 pounds of downward force without cracking and can be dropped from heights of one-and-a-half feet with no ill effect. Anything beyond that, though, and you’re on your own.

Acer talked up its Chromebook 14 for Work on April 21, but it left out key details on pricing and availability. Since most Chromebooks are relatively affordable, it’s likely the Chromebook 14 for Work will follow suit. It’s also likely that the device will be shipping within the next several weeks. But as of this writing, Acer has not shared exact details.