14 DAY TRIAL // The Chrome OS operating system from Google was originally invented for Chromebook laptops, and there are a fair few of those up for order here and there, but LG wanted to extend the usefulness to all-in-one PCs too.
So here we are, welcoming the LG Chromebase, which is basically an all-in-one PC-shaped access point to Google Drive storage.
You see, Chrome OS is a peculiar operating system in that it does not use native storage much, if at all. Instead, it works in the cloud.
Which is to say, as long as you have the thing connected to the Internet, you'll perform any and all operations on a server.
All programs are in the cloud and all files are saved there as well. It makes it possible to work on your files from any Chromebase or even Chromebook. All you need is the login details.
The LG Chromebase is a 21.5-inch system and, like any all-in-one PCs really, it looks like a monitor, only that it has a keyboard and mouse bundled in the same box.
100 GB of Google Drive storage are provided for free, but you'll have to start paying for the space after two years.
Hardware-wise, we're looking at a 21.5-inch Full HD LCD (1920 x 1080 pixels, ultra-wide viewing angles), a 1.3 megapixel webcam, all driven by a fourth-generation Haswell CPU from Intel.
In addition to writing documents and posting on social networking websites, the Chromebase will let you watch videos, play certain games and do everything else that a normal PC can accomplish. Don't expect to run Skyrim or other games that need high-end visuals though.
Moving on, the Chromebase All-in-One PC has an HDMI port. An HDMI input to be precise, which lets you use the thing as a monitor.
"Personal computers have obviously become central to each member of the family, regardless of age, which is why it's important to have one that's easy to use," said Thomas Lee, senior vice president, LG Electronics USA.
"Google's suite of programs, ability to update software and cloud-based storage allow the LG Chromebase to offer a simple, modern computing experience."
The LG Chromebase bears the part number 22CV241 and will start shipping through Amazon, Tiger Direct, Micro Center, Newegg and Fry's Electronics on May 26. The price is, as we said, $350 / €350. It's unclear if other PC makers will release a Chrome All-in-One or desktop PC to challenge this product, or if the Chromebase will have any success with Chromebooks out there.