THE CRUNCH
Google is launching its new Googlebooks laptops on October 4, starting at $899. The devices are designed to be premium alternatives to standard Chromebooks, featuring OLED screens, metal builds, and a haptic trackpad. They run on Android and include a 'Glowbar' on the lid that lights up on boot and can display battery level.
The new Googlebooks are being sold through OEM partners and are positioned as 'real' computers rather than budget devices. Only one model is priced under $1,000, with the rest costing more. The laptops feature bright OLED displays and a metal chassis, along with a haptic trackpad.
A distinctive feature of the Googlebooks is the 'Glowbar' on the lid. This illuminated bar currently serves a limited function, lighting up on boot and showing the battery level. Google plans to release an API for developers to add more functionality to the bar in the future.