Since the Chrome OS is basically a browser, it should run the Web-based front end that Simutronics released not too long ago. I'd check it out in a store before I bought it, though.

Play?

Or log in, take care of a few things, maybe monitor chats or sit quietly with friends, and log out?

I ask because I have tested any number of platforms, including tablets, smart phones, etc. In my view, 'play' is not yet possible on a great many of them, even though technology now allows us to connect and interact, for a bit.

In truth, though -- I haven't looked at the Chromebook. . . it's hard to 'play test' one in the store. ;)

Doug

Given Doug's experience, I wouldn't chance it if this Chromebook is going to be your only (or primary) machine. I'd stick with Windows. 8.1 brings back some of the familiarity of previous versions (like the Start button).

I had a Chromebook for about 1 month a few months ago.

The Gemstone internet client did not work for me, but it might have been fixed.

(Instead I installed Ubuntu(On the ACER) and I was able to run pretty much anything I wanted. But in order to have a remotely usable Ubuntu, you have to have an intel based cpu. ARM based cpus(Samsung) don't have very much support inside Ubuntu.

I tested the Samsung ARM and the Acer Intel base book. The Samsung was really the top of the line Chromebook as far as form factor and usability. If it was Intel based I would still have it. The ACER was total garbage. The mouse pad wasn't grounded property so it would cut out if not plugged in. You literally had to hold the VGA port to use it correctly.

Essentially it boils down to this...

Don't get one. I tried REALLY hard to be able to use one and have it do the things I wanted it to do, but they just aren't there yet. I think they might get it right with the next gen ones though.