ASUS today announced the all-new ASUS Chromebook CM30 Detachable (CM3001) - the perfect portable companion for study, work and play, with a versatile 2-in-1 design that allows it to transform seamlessly between laptop and tablet. With a vibrant 10.5-inch touchscreen, a quick-release garaged stylus to quickly capture ideas and notes, both front and world-facing cameras, up to 12-hour battery life, fast WiFi 6 connectivity and outstanding military-strength durability, ASUS Chromebook CM30 Detachable is an effective, fun and freeing everyday partner for students, households and frontline staff in retail and beyond.

Versatile mobility
ASUS Chromebook CM30 Detachable offers superb versatility for abundant possibilities. The included magnetic stand, cover and optional keyboard allows seamless transition between tablet and laptop mode, making it the ideal partner for distance learning or productivity. The snap-to-connect stand is engineered from strong, stain-resistant leatherette, and can be set at almost any angle - providing the freedom, flexibility and comfort needed for modern on-the-go lifestyles. ASUS Chromebook CM30 Detachable also features a two-way, push-pop stylus option that quickly and automatically charges when garaged, keeping it ready for use and providing a safe place to store it. The stylus enables quick, precise movements for unleashing creativity and productivity, empowering users to take notes, transcribe orders, sketch down ideas or capture those moments of inspiration quickly, simply and intuitively.

TrendForce reports that the second quarter revealed notebook inventory channels displaying healthy levels. Both North America and Asia-Pacific regions are demonstrating a healthy appetite for mid and low-tier consumer models. This isn't just a race to restock; it's a strategic move to gear up for the anticipated back-to-school wave in the third quarter. And here's the zinger—just as Google prepped to roll out its licensing fees, Chromebook shipments hit a peak. This surge propelled Q2 notebook shipments to 42.52 million units, marking a 21.6% quarterly leap. However, a look at the overall picture reveals a total of 77.5 million units shipped in the first half of the year—down 23.5% YoY.

TrendForce further points out that for 2H23, growth momentum is anchored in the purchasing power of end consumers. However, with the economic outlook of the two major notebook markets—the US and Europe—shrouded in uncertainty, the typical seasonal purchasing demand is muted. What's more, some of this demand was already met in Q2. As a result, Q3 notebook shipments are forecast to witness a moderate growth of 3.8%, tallying up to 44.13 million units. Annual notebook shipments are projected to hit 163 million units, marking a YoY decline of 12.2%.

Today, Google announced its next generation of Chromebook devices, called the Chromebook Plus, said to improve upon the legacy set by Chromebooks over a decade ago. Starting at an enticing price point of $399, this new breed of Chromebooks integrates powerful AI capabilities and a range of built-in Google apps. Notably, it features tools like the Google Photos Magic Eraser and web-based Adobe Photoshop, positioning itself as a dynamic tool for productivity and creative exploration. In collaboration with hardware manufacturers such as Acer, ASUS, HP, and Lenovo, Google is launching a lineup of eight Chromebook Plus devices on the launch date, with more possibly coming in the future.

Each model boasts improved hardware configurations over the regular Chromebook, including processors like the Intel Core i3 12th Gen or the AMD Ryzen 3 7000 series, a minimum of 8 GB RAM, and 128 GB storage. Users are also in for a visual treat with a 1080p IPS display, ensuring crisp visuals for entertainment and work. And for the modern remote workforce, video conferencing gets a substantial upgrade. Every Chromebook Plus comes equipped with a 1080p camera and utilizes AI enhancements to elevate video call clarity, with compatibility spanning various platforms, including Google Meet, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams. Set to be available from October 8, 2023, in the US and October 9 in Canada and Europe, the Chromebook Plus is positioning itself as the go-to device for many users. On the other hand, the AI features are slated for arrival in 2024, when companies ensure their software is compatible.Below you can see the upcoming models.

Lenovo unveils a selection of IdeaPad Chromebook Plus laptops, bringing together elevated hardware components with AI-powered tools for more productivity, creativity, and ease of use.

Lenovo's lineup of IdeaPad Chromebook Plus laptops continues the legacy of showcasing the ideal balance of value and performance, the ability to do more from anywhere, and reliability for peace of mind. Now equipped with more exclusive tools and premium services, the new selection of laptops comes with File Sync to access Google Drive files offline, a 1080p webcam with AI-powered video calling tools for crystal clear video conferencing, and other advanced features including the AI-powered Google Photos Magic Eraser that easily removes unwanted distractions from photos.

ASUS today announced ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34, a compact, lightweight and cost-effective all-rounder 14-inch laptop that's ideal for users seeking enhanced productivity and creativity on the go. Chromebook Plus laptops offer up to double the speed, double the memory, and double the storage—and Chromebook Plus CX34 is the very first Chromebook Plus from ASUS. ASUS Chromebook Plus Enterprise CX34 built with ChromeOS business device manageability will be released this year mid-November.

Powerful, portable and primed to push productivity further, ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 sports a stylish and durable design that weighs a mere 1.44 kg and is packed with features to help users achieve more. These include AI-powered tools and apps powered by an up to Intel Core i7 processor, as well as a 180° lay-flat hinge, expansive 5.7-inch touchpad, fast, stable WiFi 6 and up to 10-hour battery life to enable energetic individuals to power through everyday work and play. The all-new laptop is available in Pearl White or Rock Grey colorways, exuding understated modern style.

Acer today launched the company's first Chromebook Plus laptops, the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 and Acer Chromebook Plus 514, debuting with Google's Chromebook Plus initiative that offers a new tier of Chromebook performance, emphasizing better hardware designs with upgraded displays and cameras, and paired with new productivity, creativity, and multimedia capabilities.

The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 and Acer Chromebook Plus 514 both have the hardware and technology features customers need to stay productive, entertained and connected. These new models are powered by modern high-performance processors, and high-resolution IPS displays and 1080p crystal clear cameras flanked by narrow bezels to keep the focus on the vibrant visuals.

Just like that, summer falls into September, and some of the most anticipated games of the year, like the Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty expansion, PAYDAY 3 and Party Animals, are dropping into the GeForce NOW library at launch this month. They're part of 24 new games hitting the cloud gaming service in September. And the next Game Pass title to join the cloud at launch is Sea of Stars, part of 13 new games this week.

Keep an eye on GFN Thursday to see the next Microsoft titles joining the cloud this month, including Quake II, Gears Tactics and Halo Infinite. Plus, NVIDIA has worked with Google to give Chromebook owners a new offer that includes three free months of a GeForce NOW Priority membership. GeForce NOW cloud gaming ‌goes perfectly together with Chromebooks, which provide up to 1,600p resolution and 120 Hz+ displays.

Elitegroup Computer Systems (ECS), the global leading motherboard, mini PC, notebook, mobile device, and smart solution provider, will attend Europe's largest and the most iconic consumer electronics trade show, IFA Berlin 2023, to exhibit a series of new laptops for education and business.

Optimize Cloud-Based Learning & Teaching: A New Series of Education Chromebooks Can Fulfill Teachers' and Students' Different Needs
After the world enters the post-pandemic era, there are enormous changes in both teaching and learning modes. Meanwhile, digital trend is arising. To meet various requirements from education fields, ECS launches the brand new SG20, SE40, and EP20 education PC series. These thin and ultraportable laptops feature rugged chassis certified by MIL-STD-810H tests. Equipped with Chrome OS, their battery life can last up to 10 hours. Besides, they support 4G LTE and Wi-Fi 6, which is ideal for remote learning.

VisionTek Products LLC (VisionTek), a recognized leader in the field of high-performance upgrades and accessories for PCs and Macs, today announced the introduction of the VisionTek VT4950 KVM docking station. This innovative product is the upgraded successor to the previously celebrated VT4900 KVM docking station and is designed to enhance the workflow of users in today's professional and remote work environments. The VT4950 enables users to seamlessly swap between two connected Windows, Mac, or Chromebook host systems with up to three 4K displays, accessories, and peripherals through a single USB-C connection to each.

"The VT4950 simplifies the process of switching between systems, saving users valuable time and making their workflow more efficient," said Nick Bill, director of product development and product marketing. "This frees these users from the tedium of unplugging and reconnecting everything as they switch between systems, resulting in significant time savings."

TrendForce has predicted a noticeable recovery in the global notebook market for 2Q23. Shipments are projected to hit 40.45 million units—a QoQ increase of 15.7%. This marks a pivotal turnaround after six consecutive quarters of decline. However, despite this growth, shipments are still down by 11.6% YoY. TrendForce expects this upward trend to persist into the third quarter, estimating global notebook shipments to reach 43.08 million units, albeit at a decelerated growth rate of 6.5%.

Notebook brands were primarily focused on reducing excess terminal inventory in 1Q23, which led to slower procurement and subsequently impacted ODM sell-in sales. However, as Q2 unfolds and inventory levels of finished products and components start to stabilize, supply chain pressures should ease, triggering a wave of restocking demand. This trend is expected to extend into Q3—a season typically characterized by robust sales due to back-to-school demand and shopping promotions, further stimulating inventory demand and fostering further growth in global notebook shipments.

A range of Acer devices received the 2023 Red Dot Award and were recognized for their design quality and ingenuity. The Predator Triton 17X, Predator Helios Neo 16, and Acer Chromebook 516 GE gaming laptops, as well as the Acer Swift 14 and the Acer TravelMate P6 14 make up the suite of laptops awarded by the Red Dot jury. A pair of environment-friendly products also made the list with the Acer Vero CB3 series monitor and the Acer Vero PL2520i laser projector. The Acer Aspire S all-in-one PC, Acer Connect Enduro M3 5G Mobile Wi-Fi Router, and the Acer Halo Swing Smart Speaker round up the winning entries chosen by the Red Dot body.

As an internationally established design competition, the Red Dot distinction is bestowed on outstanding designs which has helped increase global visibility and credibility for various products and brands through the years. A panel of 43 design experts from different industries and practices conducted an on-site assessment of the products for the first time in three years, based on the criteria of product design, quality, and innovation. The Acer devices were among more than 7,900 entries for this year, with participants ranging from around 60 countries globally.

ASUS today announced the all-new 14-inch, 16:10 Chromebook CM34 Flip, delivering an exquisite blend of powerful performance and versatility to empower both work and study. This stylish laptop features up to an AMD Ryzen 5 7520C processor, and WiFi 6 and a long-lasting battery, so it's well-equipped to breeze through everyday tasks anywhere.

The versatile 360° ErgoLift hinge means Chromebook CM34 Flip has the flexibility to function in a diverse array of modes, while the optional garaged stylus enables intuitive input to jot down notes or capture ideas. To top it all off, military-grade durability, one-touch fingerprint unlock and a physical webcam shutter for instant privacy offer peace of mind—at home, in the office or classroom, or exploring the world.

Today, AMD announced the new lineup of AMD Ryzen and Athlon 7020 C-Series processors, bringing modern performance and technologies to everyday Chromebooks. With speeds of up to 4.3 GHz, up to four cores and eight threads built on proven "Zen 2" architecture, and powerful AMD RDNA 2 integrated graphics, these processors are engineered to deliver fast and responsive performance for modern productivity, video conferencing, learning apps, and streaming applications.

Built on advanced 6 nm technology, AMD Ryzen and Athlon 7020 C-Series processors enable excellent power efficiency with up to 19.5 hours of expected battery life on Athlon Silver 7120C processors and up to 17 hours of expected battery life on Ryzen 3 7320C processors so Chromebook users can browse, work, and learn unplugged. Meant for productivity and multitasking workloads common to educational and front-line workloads, AMD Ryzen and Athlon 7020 C-Series processors are designed to run faster and longer than previous ChromeOS processors.

The versatile ASUS Chromebook CX34 Flip lets you enjoy both work and play! The 16:10 14-inch aspect ratio display will make your viewing experience more immersive. The device also features an Intel Core processor, WiFi 6E and a long-lasting battery.

ASUS Chromebook CX34 Flip offers an exquisite blend of powerful performance and versatility to empower the way you work and play. This stylish laptop features a robust Intel Core processor, WiFi 6E and a long-lasting battery to ensure you're well-equipped to breeze through everyday tasks, wherever you are. Thanks to a 360° ErgoLift hinge, you can use ASUS Chromebook CX34 Flip in any mode, and an optional garaged stylus allows for intuitive input when it's time to jot down notes. To top it all off, military-grade durability gives you peace of mind when using ASUS Chromebook CX34 Flip on the go.

Last week the US Public Interest Research Group (US PIRG) Education Fund issued a report titled "Chromebook Churn", and the technology press was quick in its reading and analysis of this PDF document - filled with unfavorable findings. The main focus of the consumer watchdog's investigation was on a great uptake of Chromebooks in the education sector - schools in the United States of America have been providing a high percentage of their students with the relatively cheap ChromeOS-based laptop computers - especially during the pandemic period. The PIRG's Churn report cites numerous sources regarding disappointing Chromebook lifespans - schools are experiencing a high rate of hardware failure and technical issues relating to software updates - and as a result of these problems, irreparable devices are piling up as e-waste.

PIRG has called on Google and its manufacturing partners to effectively "double the life of these widely used laptops, saving schools money and helping the environment." Chromebooks are considered to be a cost effective entry into computing, but the watchdog reckons that a nice starter price tag does not reflect well when stacked up against the product's long term prospects. Schools are experiencing a high rate of Chromebook failures, especially once devices hit a three year long usage mark, and the required repair process is said to be problematic. PIRG states that warranty terms are unfavorable beyond the manufacturer set lifespan, and schools are having to pay for third party renovations and sourcing of spare parts (which is a complicated process in itself). The watchdog posits that schools in the USA could save a total of $1.8 billion (for taxpayers) - if Google doubles the lifespan of Chromebook, not accounting for extra maintenance costs.

Today Logitech International announced the launch of Zone Learn, wired headsets designed for K-12 learners. Zone Learn features comfort optimized for younger learners with smaller heads, durable architecture and replaceable ear pads and cables. These new headsets, designed with a scalable fit, were built for a deeper, more sustained focus and long-term use to keep students in their learning zones.

Logitech worked hand-in-hand with educators and students—from concept to final prototype—to build an education-first product, resulting in a headset designed, engineered and tested to support learning that happens, anytime, anywhere, in any style and is Works With Chromebook (WWCB) certified. Zone Learn purposefully adapts to every size and shape of learning to make it more accessible, meaningful and impactful.

ASUS, a global technology leader renowned for continuously reimagining today's technologies for tomorrow, today announced new education laptop solutions that feature rugged, serviceable and convertible designs to keep students engaged and put their safety at the forefront no matter where they are learning. With only 40% of learning taking place in schools, educators are looking to create more adaptable hybrid operations and campus models. As institutions adopt these new digital learning initiatives, they face new challenges in allocating resources, running online classrooms, integrating new devices and managing IT. Upgraded, student-centered laptop solutions from ASUS are designed to meet today's digital education ecosystem and enhance immersive learning and collaboration to help students thrive in the digital age.

From hybrid learning to IT management and student collaboration, ASUS enables incredible learning experiences with its brand-new BR1402 series. The perfect companion for hybrid learning, BR1402-series laptops feature durable designs for today's active students and an easy-to-service modular build that enables schools to be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Designed to make the digital classroom interactive and easy to use, BR1402F features a 14-inch touchscreen and a 13-megapixel world-facing camera to enable professional-quality photos and videos. With up to 16 GB DDR4 RAM and 1 TB SSD, its accelerated computing speed makes for seamless learning and collaboration.

CTL, a leading manufacturer of award-winning Chrome OS solutions, announced today at NCCE 2023 the introduction of a new "Secure" Special Edition of the CTL Chromebook PX11E. "This device's secure, semi-transparent bottom offers a unique and modern design that sets it apart from traditional Chromebooks. It allows users to see the inner workings of the device, which can be a valuable teaching tool and a great conversation starter," noted Erik Stromquist, CTL's CEO. "It also makes it easier to look inside the device to find problems, like loose connections or damage from liquid, so that it can be fixed. The design is invaluable for organizations with security concerns related to on-premise mobile devices."

The PX11E is equipped with an Intel Jasper Lake N4500 CPU, delivering up to 35% improved app performance and 78% better graphics than its predecessors. The device boasts a higher burst frequency and features a Google 'Everything Button,' screen capture button, an HD camera and microphone, multiple USB ports with PD and DP functions, and Bluetooth 5.2 capabilities—opening endless possibilities!

ASUS today announced the ASUS Chromebook CR11 series, all-new, education-focused ChromeOS laptops available in 11.6-inch clamshell form (ASUS Chromebook CR11) for a traditional experience and a convertible design that flips to become an 11.6-inch multitouch tablet (ASUS Chromebook CR11 Flip).

The fresh ASUS Chromebook CR11 models are built to military-grade standards to survive the hustle and bustle of everyday life at home, outside and in the classroom, with clever protective features including an all-round rubber bumper, a spill-resistant keyboard and an optional Corning Gorilla Glass display. There's sufficient battery life to handle a full day's learning and beyond, plus an easy-to-service modular construction and zero-touch enrolment. In addition to all of this, the convertible ASUS Chromebook CR11 Flip benefits from an optional garaged stylus, a world-facing camera for innovative learning opportunities and maximum flexibility, and a physical webcam shutter for instant privacy.

ASUS today announced the newest additions to the ASUS Chromebook family—the 14-inch ASUS Chromebook CM14 and ASUS Chromebook CM14 Flip. With a fresh, stylish look and flexible designs these dynamic laptops are primed to boost productivity and empower fun, all day, every day.

Powered by an efficient MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor and with up to a 15-hour battery life, the new CM14 models deliver the freedom to stay productive throughout the day. These attractive, modern laptops also open a gateway to the best of Google, including the rich library of apps for work and leisure found on Google Play, and benefit from WiFi 6 for fast, stable connectivity at home, at the office, in the classroom or on the go.

Today at MWC 2023, Lenovo unveiled its latest PC and Chromebook solutions to help embrace dispersed hybrid working styles and provide advanced features that empower users across a broad selection of requirements and needs. Encompassing a progressive and contemporary design philosophy, the latest PC solutions, including a comprehensive refresh across the ThinkPad portfolio, focus on improvements in system performance, increased use of more sustainable materials, and continued enhancements to user experience. ThinkPad Z13 and Z16 second generation Windows 11 laptops enhance key areas of hardware and software functionality to help users maintain a creative edge. ThinkPad Z13 also presents a new Flax Fiber top cover, using bio-based materials, for a unique individual look and feel. Lenovo also introduced a redesigned fourth generation ThinkPad X13 and X13 Yoga with narrower bezels, new colors, materials and features to facilitate hybrid work and mobility. The ThinkPad portfolio for 2023 is completed with fourth generation ThinkPad T14s, T14 and second generation T16 workhorse laptops along with the fourth generation ThinkPad L13, L13 Yoga, L14 and L15, designed for businesses with a wide range of mobile computing needs.

Value-conscious businesses seeking focused productivity features can select a fifth generation ThinkPad E14 with new 16:10 displays or a new 16-inch form factor in the ThinkPad E16. Frequent travellers will like the additional protection provided by the new ThinkPad Professional Sleeve, available in 13-inch and 14-inch sizes to support a broad selection of laptops. The highly versatile ThinkCentre Tiny-in-One Gen 5 Monitor offers improved audio-visual capabilities and redesigned features capable of supporting multiple work scenarios. Finally, consumers can enjoy the flexibility offered by the latest IdeaPad Duet 3i, a Windows 11 detachable laptop that seamlessly transitions between clamshell and tablet modes; or relish the ChromeOS eco-system with the latest IdeaPad Slim 3 Chromebook featuring a range of audio, visual, and connectivity upgrades.

On Tuesday, Microsoft and NVIDIA announced the companies have agreed to a 10-year partnership to bring Xbox PC games to the NVIDIA GeForce NOW cloud gaming service, which has more than 25 million members in over 100 countries. The agreement will enable gamers to stream Xbox PC titles from GeForce NOW to PCs, macOS, Chromebooks, smartphones and other devices. It will also enable Activision Blizzard PC titles, such as Call of Duty, to be streamed on GeForce NOW after Microsoft's acquisition of Activision closes.

"Xbox remains committed to giving people more choice and finding ways to expand how people play," said Microsoft Gaming CEO Phil Spencer. "This partnership will help grow NVIDIA's catalog of titles to include games like Call of Duty, while giving developers more ways to offer streaming games. We are excited to offer gamers more ways to play the games they love."

The global PC market has been experiencing a demand downtrend after the cooling down of COVID-19 in 2022. The market saw its shipments decline 15% YoY in 2022 and is expected to see another high single-digit decline in 2023, according to Counterpoint Research's data. However, among all the PC sub-sectors, Arm-based laptops are expected to show a comparatively resilient demand throughout the coming quarters thanks to Apple's success with the MacBook series, increasing ecosystem support and vanishing performance gap with x86 offerings.

Acer today launched four new Chromebooks to meet the needs of students, teachers and administrators, including its first Acer Chromebook Vero model designed specifically for the education market. These new models provide the latest in durability, performance, and features, making them a powerful tool for helping educators deliver better learning outcomes.

"As a leading provider of Chromebooks for the K12 education market, Acer knows what students and teachers need to keep the focus on learning - and these new Acer Chromebooks deliver what's needed and more," said James Lin, General Manager, Notebooks, IT Products Business, Acer Inc. "Our new Chromebooks provide advances in all the areas that have helped establish them as an essential tool for learning: student-focused durability features, reliable performance and advanced connectivity options to support school technology initiatives."

Today at CES 2023, HP Inc is announcing new products and solutions designed to recharge hybrid experiences so people can thrive in today's digital world. "Hybrid provides us with greater flexibility and freedom in our personal lives, but brings its own set of challenges for people to stay productive and connected to others," said Alex Cho, President, Personal Systems, HP Inc. "HP is taking the headache out of hybrid by delivering powerful and best-in-class ecosystem experiences and industry-leading innovations - including the new HP Dragonfly Pro portfolio for freelancers, the Poly Voyager Free 60 Series Wireless Earbuds for exceptional audio experiences, and the HP E-Series monitors to help take productivity to the next level - while ensuring we continue to advance our world's most sustainable PC portfolio."4

Powering Freelancers with HP Dragonfly Pro
The freelancer community continues to grow exponentially, and by 2027 freelancers will make up more than 50% of the total U.S. workforce. That's why HP is bringing the power of its award-winning Dragonfly brand to freelancers wanting elevated experiences in their hybrid lives. This group of consumers wants technology with the power they need for multitasking and heavy workloads, coupled with built-in support and services for peace of mind.