| Pixelbook | |
| Type: | Chromebook |
| Os: | ChromeOS |
| Cpu: | Intel Core i5-7Y57 or i7-7Y75 |
| Storage: | 128, 256 or 512 GB SSD |
| Memory: | 8 or 16 GB RAM |
| Display: | 12.3inches, 2,400 × 1,600 resolution |
| Weight: | 1.11kg (02.45lb) |
| Dimensions: | (W×L×H): 220.8× |
| Manufacturer: | |
| Predecessor: | Chromebook Pixel |
| Family: | Google Pixel |
| Related: | Google Pixel Slate |
| Successor: | Pixelbook Go |
The Pixelbook (codenamed Eve during development) is a portable laptop/tablet hybrid computer developed by Google which runs ChromeOS. It was announced on October 4, 2017, and was released on October 30.[1] In September 2022, Google canceled future generations of the product and dissolved the team working on it.[2]
Unlike most typical Chromebook devices, the Pixelbook's retail price is much higher at around $1,000, comparable with laptops such as the Microsoft Surface Laptop.[3] [4]
A rumored Pixel-branded Chromebook was anticipated to be launched at Google's annual fall hardware event in 2017 as a successor to the Chromebook Pixel;[5] it was potentially a spinoff from the prior year's Project Bison, which was anticipated to be a laptop that could convert into a tablet mode.[6] Google developed and launched a similar tablet with a detachable keyboard in 2018 (codenamed 'Nocturne') as the Pixel Slate.[7]
The Pixelbook was planned as the next generation of Google laptops after the Chromebook Pixel laptop was discontinued in 2016.[8] The company realised the Chromebook line had become successful after a slow start, obtaining a market share of 58% of schools in the US, and designed the Pixelbook as a serious industry player that can compete with Apple and Microsoft in this field.[9]
Limited details, the name, and preliminary pricing for the Pixelbook leaked ahead of the official announcement; in addition, a stylus accessory would also be available.[10] The Pixelbook was officially announced on October 4, 2017, at prices starting at .[11]
The Pixelbook Go was announced in October 2019 as a Chromebook with similar performance as the Pixelbook and also equipped with a touchscreen, but the Go dropped tablet mode and stylus support. By September 19, 2020, Google had de-listed all models of the original Pixelbook from its online store, effectively marking its discontinuation.[12]
The Pixelbook features a 12.3inch touchscreen design, allowing the device to be used like a tablet. The device also features Google Assistant with a dedicated button. It runs ChromeOS and can launch Android applications natively.[13] There is a front-facing camera capable of recording video at 720p, 30 frames per second. The hinge allows nearly a full 360° range of motion, enabling the computer to operate in "laptop", "tent", or "tablet" modes, depending on the opening angle.
It features instant tethering; if a wifi signal is dropped, the Pixelbook will automatically connect to a suitable smartphone signal.[4] Either of the computer's two USB-C ports may be used for charging;[14] using the provided 45 W charger, charging takes up to two hours. The 41 W-hr battery has a claimed life of 10 hours.
| Processor | RAM | Storage | Graphics | Price (USD/GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core i5-7Y57 | 8 GB | 128 GB | / | |
| 256 GB | / | |||
| Core i7-7Y75 | 16 GB | 512 GB | / |
The top-end version with a Core i7 processor was exclusive to the Google Store and availability lagged the other models; it was not available to order until December 2017, with first shipments in January 2018.[17]
The device is compatible with Pixelbook Pen, a stylus designed for Pixelbook and sold separately for $99/£99.[18] The stylus is pressure- and angle-sensitive, and features latency of just 10 ms.[16] It is powered by a AAAA battery.[14]
The Pixelbook had a mixed response from the press, who praised the build quality but questioned the market for the device given the price.