Google and Intel to Release New Chromebooks for the Classroom

Google has partnered with Intel to launch a new line of Chromebooks powered by Intel's low-voltage Celeron "Bay Trail-M" system-on-chip (SoC), reports Education News. 

The new models, which will be released later this summer, will come from companies such as Acer, Asus, Lenovo and Toshiba. Asus plans new Chromebook models with 11.3 inch and 13.3 inch screens. Acer plans to update its models to correspond with SoC. Dell plans to do the same with its Chromebook 11 later this year. Acer's C720 will be released "early in the back to school season" for $349.99, according to The Verge. 

"Unfortunately, there's no word on how much the Dell will cost, but as it was probably the best all-around Chromebook we've seen, we'll be looking forward to seeing if the new processor measurably improves the experience," The Verge says. "There's little doubt that the i3 will offer a faster experience, but battery life will, as always, be a key concern."

Google has also announced it will release a number of new Chromebooks this summer. Earlier this month, Google launched Google Classroom, a new tool to help educators with organization and collaboration while working with Google Apps, reports Tech Republic. 

"Today, many teachers and professors have found ways to use technology to be better educators and avoid busywork," said Zach Yeskel, product manager of Classroom. "We have more than 30 million students, teachers and administrators using Google Apps for Education to communicate, collaborate and work with students more efficiently, and with Classroom, our goal is to make these products even better for them."

With new developments in Chromebooks and a number of different hardware partners distributing them, teachers who use computers and technology in the classroom can choose between multiple, compatible machines at an array of prices.