Google and Dell introduce enterprise-class Chromebook

Google is beefing up their Google for Work lineup once more with the introduction of another Chromebook variation, partnering this time with Dell.

TechCrunch reports that the new Dell Chromebook 13 is the third entry in the lineup, joining offerings from Asus that were introduced a few months ago. However, the Chromebook 13 sets itself apart by being more of a business-class machine compared to the Asus models, which are geared towards home and casual users, such as educational institutions.

Dell has outfitted the Chromebook 13 with top-level materials, befitting its designation as an enterprise- class computer. The 13-inch, 1080p FHD IPS screen of the laptop comes in touch or non-touch options, plus an option to have a 5^th generation Intel i5 processor powering it for the high-end models. The shell of the Chromebook 13 is made of carbon fiber for added durability, with a magnesium alloy palm rest and a high-precision glass trackpad. The bottom of the Chromebook 13 is made of aluminum for better heat dissipation, the keyboard is backlit, and the battery maxes out at 12 hours of usage.

Google, for their part, has customized the Chrome OS to be as business-friendly as possible, in their push for it to become as widely used as Microsoft's Windows. Some major corporations have already started to transition to Chrome, such as Netflix and Starbucks, with Google hoping that more will follow suit.

The Google for Work team has included several new features to the Chromebook 13's version of the operating system in order to convince more companies to switch. Security features such as integration with VPN services are coupled with virtualization, allowing the Chromebook to run Windows programs even if it is a different operating system. Other features include use of native file storage, Chrome management enhancements, extended printing support and PLUS identity networking at certificates.

The Dell Chromebook 13 will retail at $399 for the base model, which is equipped with a Celeron processor.