Want a Chrome OS Notebook? Sign Up for the Cr-48 Pilot Program

Whether you like it or not, it looks like the future of computing is going to be in the cloud. There are multiple companies that believe this, but most eyes are turned towards Google, as its Chrome OS looks to have the most potential. Why? Well, the fact that the company offers a bajillion Web-based services that are used worldwide sure helps.

Chrome OS is a Linux-based OS that could see wide-spread reception on the notebook side of things, and quite possibly see some use on desktops as well in the future. It’s meant to be lightweight, and most of the applications people will use will be online, and probably, be mostly Google-developed. The potential is high, and I know a couple of people who can’t wait to learn more, but for most of us, we won’t be able to see much until next summer when products start being released.

There is a chance, however, that you could score an early laptop pre-loaded with the OS, straight from Google. Sound good? This is done via Google’s Chrome Notebook Pilot Program, where you can sign up as a certain type of user (business, education, non-profit, developer and individual), and fill out a large form lots of questions, most optional.

If Google selects you, you will be sent a Cr-48 Chrome notebook, which the company states carries a battery-life of up to eight hours, and includes a webcam, full-sized keyboard and 12-inch display. What’s it lacking? An optical drive, for one, and also a caps-lock key. At just 3.8 lbs, it’s not exactly heavy, either, and I have to admit, I kind of like the ultra-clean design. It’s too bad launch Chrome OS notebooks won’t look like this!

It’s ready when you are, booting in about 10 seconds and resuming from sleep instantly. There’s built-in Wi-Fi and 3G, so you can stay connected everywhere, and a webcam for video chat. The vibrant 12-inch LCD display, full-size keyboard and oversized touchpad let you enjoy the web comfortably. And at just 3.8 pounds with over eight hours of active usage and a week of standby time, it’s easy to take along for the ride.