Buyers will pay a premium when Google releases its new Googlebooks on October 4, with preorders available now and the entry model listed at $899 while most variants are above $1,000.
The Googlebooks effort represents a renewed push by Google to move beyond phones and budget Chromebooks and to place Android on larger, more capable laptops. Google positions the new line as full‑featured computers, packing native apps and developer tools intended for on‑device use.
Several long‑time Chromebook manufacturers are selling the first Googlebooks, signalling partner support for the new category. Hardware moves deliberate‑ ly away from the inexpensive plastic of many Chromebooks; the new devices feature bright OLED panels, metal chassis, and large haptic trackpads. Each model also carries the Glowbar, an illuminated strip on the lid that currently shows boot and battery status.
Google plans to release an API for the Glowbar so third‑party developers can add functionality, potentially turning the light strip into a new surface for system or app notifications. Beyond that, Google is touting development tools and on‑device apps as part of the pitch that these machines should be treated as “real” laptops rather than low‑end browser boxes.
Price will be a clear dividing line for consumers deciding whether to upgrade from existing Chromebooks or to consider alternatives running macOS or Windows. The company appears to be targeting premium buyers with higher‑end hardware and deeper smartphone integration instead of competing on low cost.
What comes next is now public: preorders for five models are live and shipping will begin around October 4. Developers will get the Glowbar API after launch, and early adopters will reveal how much demand exists for a pricier, Android‑powered laptop category that aims to move Google into the mainstream laptop market.
