With its Chromebooks, Google has been trying to revolutionize computing by switching to a browser-centered model. As a result, it doesn’t necessarily require the beefy parts that a Windows-based laptop needs to deliver the fastest performance possible, relying on an Intel Atom N570 processor to power systems instead.
But that apparently hasn’t stopped plans for some upgraded specs for future Chromebooks. According to DigiTimes, Google is looking for Chromebook partners to upgrade from the N570 to Intel’s mainstream Core series processors for better performance and security. Apparently, Acer, Asus, and Samsung are on-board with the decision, and will start create new models for 2012 release.
Here’s the kicker: Google is hoping that by offering the faster CPUs, it will be able to push the price of Chromebooks beyond the $500 price point. But how much more will consumers be willing to pay for something that runs Chrome and Web apps and that’s about it? Especially if the N570 handles everything fairly well already.
Would you be willing to pay more for a Chromebook with a faster processor? If not, what would a new Chromebook need to have in order for you to pay more than $500 for one? Let us know in the Comments section.
