Googlebooks' premium hardware undermined by beta OS — SkimNews
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- Googlebook OS feels like beta-level software across all models, suffering from poor app support, keyboard integration issues, and missing features like portrait tablet mode, despite running on high-end hardware.
- Acer released the Googlebook 14, a $900 2-in-1 convertible with a 120Hz OLED touchscreen and stylus support, but Googlebook OS does not support portrait orientation, limiting its functionality.
- Dell launched the XPS Googlebook at $999, a lightweight 13.4-inch model with strong battery life and quality build, though its anti-glare display coating reduces screen clarity and brightness.
- HP's Googlebook 14 starts at $1,199.99 and includes a 14-inch 120Hz OLED display, Snapdragon X Elite chip, and haptic trackpad, but shares the same underdeveloped OS and limited port selection as other models.
- Asus introduced the most expensive Googlebook at $1,299, featuring an Intel Core Ultra 5 CPU, 16GB RAM, and a full port array including HDMI and USB-A, yet still runs the flawed Googlebook OS.
Why it matters: Consumers paying $900–$1,300 for Googlebooks get premium hardware comparable to MacBooks but face a broken user experience due to Google’s unfinished OS, making these devices poor value despite solid components and raising questions about Google’s readiness to compete in the laptop market.
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