Google Announces Chromebooks from Samsung and Acer, School and Enterprise Rental Plans

On day two of its 2011 I/O Conference, Google unveiled two different models of what it calls the Chromebook, inexpensive, Chrome OS-powered laptops that are designed with web use rather than extensive desktop use in mind. One, made by Acer, will start at $349; the other, made by Samsung, will start at $429. Both laptops boast 8-second boot times and “instant” resumption, 3G and WiFi options, and tweaks that Google says will optimize their web performance. Both will be available to order from Amazon and Best Buy beginning June 15th.

Google also announced two rental plans for its new laptops: Chromebooks for Business is a package which covers software, hardware, support, and warranty and replacements for enterprise customers for a $28 per user monthly subscription. Chromebooks for Education offers the same to schools and government entities for $20 per month per user.

Specs below:

Acer Chromebook specs:

11.6″ HD Widescreen CineCrystalTM LED-backlit LCD

2.95 lbs. | 1.34 kg.

6 hours of continuous usage 1

Intel® AtomTM Dual-Core Processor

Built in dual-band Wi-Fi and World-mode 3G (optional)

HD Webcam with noise cancelling microphone

High-Definition Audio Support

2 USB 2.0 ports

4-in-1 memory card slot

HDMI port

Fullsize Chrome keyboard

Oversize fully-clickable trackpad

Samsung Chromebook specs:

12.1″ (1280×800) 300 nit Display

3.26 lbs / 1.48 kg

8.5 hours of continuous usage 1

Intel® AtomTM Dual-Core Processor

Built in dual-band Wi-Fi and World-mode 3G (optional)

HD Webcam with noise cancelling microphone

2 USB 2.0 ports

4-in-1 memory card slot

Mini-VGA port

Fullsize Chrome keyboard

Oversize fully-clickable trackpad

(via TNW, Search Engine Land, Engadget)