Asus, through a collaboration with Google, has revealed what could be the world's most portable computer: the humble, colorful Chromebit. Weighing only 2.6 ounces, the little candy bar-sized device plugs into any HDMI port, instantly turning any monitor or television into a full-blown Chrome OS computer, according to The Verge.
Basically, the Chromebit is a very cheap Chromebook, minus all the expensive parts such as the monitor, keyboard and trackpad. Nevertheless, it still offers customers an affordable, easy way to get a browser and web-based apps without the hassle of keeping things up to date.
The device's specs are very modest, however, as the Chromebit is only equipped with a Rockchip RK3288 processor with quad-core Mali 760 graphics, 2GB of RAM, 16GB of solid state storage, 2x2 dual-band 802.11ac WiFi, Bluetooth 4.0, and a single full-size USB 2.0. With these specs, consumers should expect the device to handle only the basics, reported Gizmodo.
Regardless of the device's hardware limitations, the Chromebit arguably has a number of very notable uses. Old monitors, for one, can become instantly useful again. In classrooms, it could be plugged directly onto a projector for visual presentations. It could also simply be used as an extremely portable computer, sitting somewhere in a bag.
The Asus Chromebit is now available for purchase at Amazon, Fry's, and Newegg for $85.
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