Kogan will release a laptop based on Google's Chrome operating system on June 7, beating Asian PC makers Samsung and Acer as first to release the Chromebook.

Google said that Chromebooks bring all of Google browser Chrome's speed, simplicity and security "without the headaches of operating systems designed 20 to 30 years ago." The Chromebook boasts of an under-5-second boot time and the quickest time for the Chrome browser to start. The Chromebook won't be running on the popular Microsoft Windows operating system but will instead use Google's own Chromium OS.

The Agora Ultra Portable Chromebook has these features:

-- World's First Chromium OS Laptop -- Google Powered Cloud Computing

-- Intel Celeron M ULV Processor (SU2300) - 1M Cache, 1.30 GHz, 800 MHz FSB

-- 30GB SSD storage

-- 1GB RAM (upgradeable to 4GB)

-- 11.6" WXGA Widescreen HD LED Display

-- 1366 x 768 (16:9) resolution

-- 3.5-hour battery life

-- Internet connectivity through Wi-Fi or by turning user's Google Android or Apple iPhone into hotspot

-- No 3G option

-- 1.32kg weight

The Agora is already available for order in Australia for A$349 ($375).

Kogan said in its Web site, "Powered by Google Chromium OS, this super fast device lets you store all your information in the cloud, and boots up in seconds! The Kogan Agora Chromium Laptop helps you truly enjoy using your computer. No longer is it a chore to turn on, switch between applications, and load up big files. From now, your computing is effortless, fast, and simple!"

The Chromebooks

Google Inc. (GOOG) announced last month that laptop computers running on search giant's Chrome operating-system software will go on sale in June, marking a significant step in its effort to compete with Microsoft Corp.

With Chrome OS, Google would be taking a bite at the operating systems market, which is currently dominated by Microsoft.
Samsung and Acer were initially announced to release the first batch of Chromebooks. They are due to release the laptops starting June 15 in the United States.

The Acer 11.6-inch Chromebook will go on sale for $349.

Google said last month that the Chromebooks, which has a low cost and Web-centric platform, will have these features:

* Booting and opening browser to take only "seconds";
* Lasts a day of use on a single charge, for a longer battery life than a full notebook;
* Optional 3G;
* Layers of security built in, making anti-virus software unnecessary;
* Core of each Chromebook is the Chrome web browser.
* Runs on the Chrome operating system;
* Has own software for word processing and other tasks similar to Microsoft's Office suite; and
* Units to be sold at between $350 and $500 each.

Crowded Marketplace

The release of the Chromebook comes as at a time when laptop and desktop sales have slowed down in the past two years while the sale of Apple's iPad and other tablets have skyrocketed.

In addition, not only Google is trying to bring a new product category to the already crowded and saturated marketplace. Intel Corp. (INTC) is promoting a new type of thinner and lighter mobile computer called an ultrabook.

Intel said the ultrabook will marry the performance and capabilities of today's laptops with tablet-like features. The ultrabook has these features:

* Less than 20mm (0.8 inch) thick,
* Tablet-style features such as touchscreens and the ability to start up quickly to let users call up websites without waiting,
* Days of battery life on standby,
* Mainstream pricing under US$1,000, and
* Arrival in three key phases, with the initial batch available during 2011 winter holiday shopping season.