Google unveils high-end 'Pixel' Chromebook

Google this morning launched its latest Chromebook, the Pixel, its most powerful and expensive cloud-based portable so far, costing three to four times more than existing models.

Google Chromebook Pixel. Source: vendor.

Pixel runs the company's Chrome OS Linux-based on an 1.8GHz Intel Core i5 processor and features 4GB RAM and 32GB (wi-fi model) and 64GB (LTE model) flash storage that's backed up with a 1TB Google Drive for three years.

A stand-out feature is the bright 12.85-inch screen that sports 2,560 by 1,700 pixel resolution and a wide, 178 degree viewing angle that runs off the processor's Intel HD 4000 graphics.

It is a touch screen with Corning Gorilla glass and has an industry-leading 239 pixels per inch density.

Other notable features are a promised five hour battery life, double USB 2.0 ports, memory card slot and a mini Displayport connector. A high-definition camera is also included.

Google does not say who the original equipment manufacturer for the aluminium cased, 1.5kg Chromebook Pixel is.

On the Google Chrome blog, the company's vice president of engineering, Linus Upson writes that the Pixel has been optimised for speed and promises the Chromebook "boots up in seconds and never slows down."

Upson also says the Pixel requires almost no set-up or maintenance and has built-in virus protection.

The Chromebook Pixel sells for US$1299 for the wi-fi only version and US$1499 for an LTE variant. 

A Google spokesman could not say when the Pixel would be available in Australia.