Dell has temporarily stopped the sale of its Chromebook 11 online due to overwhelming demand from customers.
Chromebooks are setting a new trend for light and easy computing. With growing demand for Chrome OS-based laptops, PC makers have expanded their range with multiple options. But each company has its own best-selling product and for Dell it is Chromebook 11. Due to overwhelming demand from its customers, Dell has temporarily stopped the online sale of Chromebook 11 citing supply issues.
The Chromebook 11, which was announced in December, is listed as unavailable but the PC maker is asking buyers to call the sales rep for orders. The shortage in supply is not a long-term issue, as Dell is confident of resuming the online sale channel for Chromebook 11 soon. No specific date was provided.
"This is a nice problem to have. We are in the middle of a very busy buying season and, all I can say is, Dell is experiencing strong demand and we have suspended sales via our Dell website temporarily," said Ellen Murphy, Dell global consumer client PR consultant, CRN reported on Tuesday. "We expect to return Chromebooks for general availability in the next several weeks."
Dell's Chromebook 11 mainly targets schools and educational institutes. The 11.6-inch Chromebook model is powered by a fourth generation Intel Celron processor and uses Google's Chrome OS. It is low on storage as all operations are carried out using Google's cloud. The Chromebook 11 packs2GB RAM and 16GB hard drive storage. The main attraction is the laptop's lasting battery that can run up to 10 hours, making it a suitable companion for using on-the-go.
Chromebooks gained sudden traction in late 2013. Now, all major PC makers, such as Acer, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung offer a wide range of Chromebooks. Acer waged a so-called "price war" in the industry with its sub-$200 models. The company also offers high-end models with all-touch display for $300.
Citing the growing popularity of Chromebooks, Google decided to bring its trending Chrome OS powered machines to nine new countries last month. They include Norway, Denmark, Chile, Mexico, Spain, Italy, Belgium, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
Dell's supply issues comes at a crucial time during the education buying season. The company has kept its orders open for students through its telecommunication sales channel.
