ASUS took the veil off a new Chromebook earlier this week at Computex Taipei 2017, namely the ASUS Chromebook Flip C101. As expected from the manufacturer, the new ASUS Chromebook takes the form of a convertible device with a 360-degree hinge. However, unlike other recent Chromebooks including the company’s own Chromebook Flip C302 unveiled at CES 2017, the model showcased at Computex doesn’t support Android applications just yet.
In terms of hardware specifications, the upcoming ASUS Chromebook Flip C101 is equipped with the ARM Rockchip RK3399 chipset officially introduced in February 2016 at Mobile World Congress (MWC), incorporating a total of six 64-bit CPU cores. The CPU can apparently be paired with either 2GB or 4GB of RAM, and buyers will be able to choose between 16GB and 32GB of internal eMMC storage. The 360-degree hinge accommodates a 10.1-inch LED-backlit touchscreen display with a resolution of 1280 by 800 pixels which can be flipped to convert the device into multiple usage modes such as “tablet” or “tent.” The model appears to have been wrapped in aluminum on all facets, including the back of the display and keyboard housing. The convertible is also equipped with a full-sized USB port, two USB Type-C connectors, and a microSD card slot for storage expansion. In overall, the ASUS Chromebook Flip C101 including its 2-cell polymer battery that’s rated for up to ten hours of usage weighs 0.9kg or just under two pounds and measures at 262.8 x 182.4 x 15.6mm.
ASUS didn’t reveal any details as to when the Chromebook Flip C101 will hit the shelves and at what price. The convertible should complement the higher-end Chromebook Flip C302, and it’s logical to assume that the 10.1-inch model showcased in Taipei will enter the market as a budget-friendlier Chromebook compared to the C302 model; although its full aluminum chassis may bump the price beyond the $300 mark. For reference, the ASUS Chromebook Flip C302 that also sports an aluminum case launched for $499.99. The Taiwanese consumer electronics manufacturer will likely reveal more information regarding the availability and pricing of the Chromebook Flip C101 in the near future and is expected to announce more related products later this year.