Acer debuts new rugged Chromebook Plus Enterprise laptops — shame none of them have a killer feature that would wow Windows enterprise buyers
New Acer rugged laptops target hybrid workers
Acer has lifted the wraps off two new Chromebook Plus Enterprise laptops designed to boost the efficiency of cloud-based workplaces.
Revealed at Computex 2024, the Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise 515 and the Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise Spin 514 aim to offer strong performance and security in a package that’s designed to withstand the stresses often imposed by hybrid workers.
In a nod to the evolving demands of digital-first workplaces, Acer’s new ChromeOS-based laptops will also feature built-in AI functionalities that are set to offer productivity boosts during online collaboration sessions.
Acer Chromebooks
Acer’s more conventional laptop, the 515, makes use of a large 15.6-inch 1920x1080 IPS display, which it hopes will appeal to those in finance, retail and service, thus it has been equipped with a dedicated numeric keypad.
The laptops will be available with up to an Intel Core 7 processor 150U and up to 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM.
Second in line, the Spin 514, comes with a smaller 14-inch 1920x1200 display and 360-degree hinges, allowing it to transform into a tablet.
Recognizing that hybrid working remains prevalent and that many workers spend hours each week on video conferencing apps, Acer has also included Google AI-powered video call tools, including clarity and lighting enhancements, noise cancellation and background blurring.
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Built with an ML-STD 810H-compliant durable chassis, the laptops also look to be able to withstand a fair amount of abuse, such as being thrown in and out of bags.
Other noteworthy features include up to 10 hours of battery life, fast charging, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, HDMI and USB-C ports, and Gorilla Glass on the Spin model.
Available this month, the Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise 515 will cost $649.99 / €579. The tablet-style Acer Chromebook Plus Enterprise Spin 514 will be available from August in the US, priced at $749.99, and July across EMEA, priced at €679.
A separate, non-enterprise Chromebook Plus Spin 514 will also be available alongside the enterprise-focused model, costing $549.99 / €679. Acer positions this as a model that’s suitable for educational settings.
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With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!