Acer has announced a new convertible laptop and two compact desktop computers, all running Google’s ChromeOS, designed for a range of users from students to professionals.
The headline product is the Acer Chromebook Plus Spin 514. This is Acer’s first Chromebook to use a MediaTek Kompanio Ultra processor. A key feature of this chip is a dedicated neural processing unit, or NPU, which delivers significant artificial intelligence (AI) power directly on the device. This enables tasks like real-time automation and photo editing without needing an internet connection. The processor is also efficient, allowing for a battery life of up to 17 hours on a single charge.
The device comes with built-in Google AI features. Users can automatically organize their tabs and files with Smart Grouping, enhance photos with AI tools, and search for information using Google Lens. A special “Quick Insert” key on the keyboard provides one-touch access to apps. Buyers will also get a free 12-month subscription to Google AI Pro, which unlocks advanced features for Gemini, Flow, and NotebookLM, plus 2TB of cloud storage.
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Built with a durable aluminum body, the Chromebook Plus Spin 514 meets a US military standard for durability, known as MIL-STD 810H. Its reinforced ports and 360-degree hinges are tested to last for 25,000 open-and-close cycles, allowing it to be used in laptop, tablet, tent, or display modes. It features a 14-inch touchscreen with Gorilla Glass protection and supports the use of a USI stylus for writing and drawing. Despite its sturdy build, it is lightweight at 1.36 kilograms and thin at 15.5 millimeters.
For video calls, users can choose between a 5MP or 1080p webcam, which includes AI enhancements for better clarity, lighting, and background blur. It also has a physical privacy shutter. The laptop includes stereo speakers with DTS audio and the latest connectivity options like Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. The touchpad is made from recycled ocean-bound plastic.
Acer also introduced two new desktop models, the Chromebox CXI6 and the Chromebox Mini CXM2. These small, stationary computers are aimed at places like school computer labs, small businesses, retail kiosks, and digital signage.
The Chromebox CXI6 can be configured with up to an Intel Core 7 processor. Its main advantage is a wide array of ports, including five USB 3.2 ports, a USB Type-C port, and two HDMI ports. This allows it to support up to four independent monitors at once. It also includes Wi-Fi 6E and a 2.5G Ethernet port for fast internet.
For environments where space is extremely limited or silence is important, the fanless Chromebox Mini CXM2 offers a quiet, compact solution. Powered by an Intel Core 3 processor, it has a similar set of ports and can support up to three monitors. Both desktop models can be mounted on the back of a monitor or secured with a Kensington lock.
For business customers, enterprise versions of these devices will be available. These come with a Chrome Enterprise Upgrade, which provides enhanced security and easier management for companies deploying many devices.