Google has announced a pocket-sized computer that can turn any HDMI display into a fully functioning personal computer.
The device, manufactured by Asus and called the Chromebit, is an chocolate bar-like PC which crams the functionality of a Chromebook notebook into a HDMI dongle.
Specs wise, it has 2GB RAM, a Rockchip 3288 SoC, 16GB of storage, a USB 2.0 port, Bluetooth 4.0, Wi-Fi and an ARM Mali 760 quad-core GPU.
All users will need to do is plug it into to the HDMI socket of the display and provide their own accessories, which can be connected via USB or Bluetooth.
Design wise, it’s also pretty handy with a neat hinge that enables it to fold back against the display.
Related: Google Chromecast UK review
The Chromebit, which will be the first of its kind, will arrive on the market this summer, in orange, blue and grey for under $100 (around $60). Google and Asus will be going up against the Intel Computer Stick which, for $150, runs Windows 8.1.
The device puts improves Google’s ever expanding hardware empire. Alongside its Nexus smartphones and tablets and branded Android Wear watches, it now has an impressive foothold in video streaming, computing and home automation.
Last month the firm opened up an online Google Store and the company’s first brick and mortar retail outlet opened up in London.
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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.
Professional conduct
We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.
