HP Chromebook 11 G5 is an affordable touchscreen laptop with Android app focus

Chromebooks are wonderful computers for many reasons. Besides often being affordable, they are based on the Linux kernel, which creates a rock-solid foundation. They feature a largely malware free experience thanks to its focus on the web rather than local storage. With that said, Google's delivery of the Play Store and locally-installed Android apps to the web-based platform is going to change everything -- maybe for the better. From a security perspective, it could be for the worse.

Today, HP announces the Chromebook 11 G5. This all-new Chrome OS laptop is extremely affordable, starting at less than $200. The real news, however, is that this low-cost machine can be equipped with an optional touchscreen, which HP is offering as a way to future-proof for eventual Android app usage.

"The new HP Chromebook 11 G5 is the first of HP’s 11.6 diagonal Chromebooks to offer a touchscreen -- an inviting new experience for the many touch-enabled Chrome and Android applications in the Google Play Store that is planned to be compatible with Chrome OS later this year", says HP.

The famed manufacturer further explains, "although feather-light starting at just 2.51 lbs., the 11 G5 speeds through spreadsheets, videos and Hangouts with the power from an Intel Celeron N3060 processor that quickly launches apps, allows for speedy web browsing, and efficiently manages the battery for up to 11 hours on a touchscreen and up to 12.5 hours on a non-touchscreen device".

While the Celeron N3060 isn't Intel's most powerful processor, it is hardly anemic. This x86 processor should handle the Linux-based Chrome OS like a champ. HP is a bit mum on RAM, but I expect both 2GB and 4GB options -- I recommend the latter.

HP seems to be bullish on the Android+Chrome OS future. Anna Wu, product manager for Chromebooks at HP sharess, "the demand for Chromebook in education continues to grow as schools take full advantage of the benefits of Chrome -- manageability, simplicity, and security. The functionality of Android apps -- many of which are touch-centric -- are adding more versatile learning experiences to the classroom with a host of new education-focused apps".

I agree with Ms. Wu; Chromebooks are a dream for education, and the addition of Android apps and touch will only make them better. This is why it would be wise to opt for the touch variant. That screen is made of Gorilla Glass, which should fight damage caused by less-than-careful young students too.

The HP Chromebook 11 G5 with its 11.6 inch IPS screen, starts at $189 and will be sold through limited channels starting in July. The company promises to have it in traditional retail stores starting in October. This is a bit disappointing, as this means it will miss the back-to-school shopping season. D'oh!

Are you excited for the Chrome OS+Android revolution? Tell me in the comments.