Google PixelBook with Google Assistant, pen support announced

Google at its Pixel 2 event in San Fransisco, announced a high-performance Chromebook called Pixelbook. It is the first Chromebook to feature built-in support for Google Assistant and has a dedicated key to trigger the Assistant. 

It also supports pen input, and flaunts a convertible 360-degree design, that lets the Chromebook to be used in four modes such as laptop, tablet, stand or tent. For example "you can fold the keyboard underneath to easily watch your favorite show, read your favorite book or take notes in tablet mode when you’re on the go, or prop it into tent mode as you follow along with a recipe in the kitchen." 

The Google Pixelbook features 12.3-inch (2400 x 1600 pixel) touchscreen display with 3:2 aspect ratio, and is powered by seventh generation Intel Core i5/i7 processor. It come with the option of 8GB or 16GB RAM, and 128GB/256GB/512GB storage.

Google's Pixelbook has a USB Type-C port that can be used for both data transfer and charging, and there is support for fast charging as well. Google says you should get up to two hours of battery life with a 15 minute charge, and battery life of up to 10 hours on a single charge.

Other features include backlit keyboard, stereo speakers, 720p webcam and 3.5mm audio jack. It has a thickness of 10.3mm and weighs 1.1kg.

There's also an optional Pixelbook Pen, which lets you sketch and write on the screen. It uses machine learning for handwriting recognition, and has 60-degress of angular awareness and 2,000 levels of pressure sensitivity.

Google will offer the Pixelbook in three configurations, with prices starting at $999 in the U.S. The Pixelbook Pen will cost $99. Both will be up for pre-order in the U.S, UK and Canada starting today, and will be available in stores from October 31. The Chromebook will be available from Google Store, and major retailer including Best Buy.