We’ve seen a lot of spins on the classic laptop formula over the past decade, like two-in-one laptops, where a laptop can double as a tablet, and detachable laptops, where we have essentially a tablet that can be docked and used as a laptop. The latter segment has largely folded into tablets, but we still see the occasional “detachable laptop” launch now and then. Now, ASUS has released a Chromebook that’s more like a “Chrometab” of sorts and helps blur the line between Android tablets and ChromeOS.
ASUS has unveiled the ASUS Chromebook CM30 Detachable (CM3001), a versatile 2-in-1 laptop and tablet that, according to the company, is designed for study, work, and play. It comes with a 10.5-inch touchscreen, a garaged two-way push-pop stylus for quick note-taking, front and rear-facing cameras, and up to 12 hours of battery life, as well as a magnetic stand, cover, and an optional keyboard that allows you to seamlessly transition between tablet and laptop modes.
As for the specs, the laptop comes with a MediaTek Kompanio 520 processor, 8 GB of memory, and 128 GB of storage. It’s not the best or most powerful Chromebook out there, but the specs should be good enough for most of your basic needs. As for the cameras we previously mentioned, we have a 5 MP front-facing camera that’s okay for online meetings and a 5 MP rear-facing camera. ASUS also says that this device weighs just under a kilogram, or 2.20 pounds, with its accessories attached.
The tablet also complies with US MIL-STD 810H standards, so it’s also pretty tough. Its case is also made from 30% recycled aluminum and manufactured using renewable energy sources. The packaging is eco-friendly, compliant with FSC certifications, and designed for responsible forest management.
Perhaps more importantly, with it being a Chromebook, it has ChromeOS, offering access to Google Play for a wide range of apps, games, music, and more. This means that the laptop should run the same apps that an Android tablet would run, making it potentially an alternative to Android tablets if you’re used to ChromeOS (or if you don’t love how Android works on tablets).
ASUS hasn’t confirmed pricing or availability information for this model, so keep an eye on ASUS’s online store or your favorite retailer if you’re interested.
Source: ASUS
