Google's Schmidt: Chrome OS devices should be affordable

If you're a fan of the cloud computing concept, trust that Google will keep your data secure, and will be in the market for a Chrome OS-based netbook in the near future, pay attention as it looks like Google plans to keep the cost down for the average consumer.

On Monday at the Atmosphere Cloud Computing Summit, Google CEO Eric Schmidt talked about plans to make Chrome OS devices "completely disposable." What that means, according to Engadget, is that we are looking at "netbook-esque price points of between $300-400," per device. Another talking point at the forum was the possibility of pricing based on contracts with various wireless carriers (think Clear or the big four carriers here). This is something we're already starting to see with select carriers where one can purchase netbooks and or laptop sticks for various rates. Additionally, on off-contract items such as the iPad, one can purchase connectivity without such an agreement, having paid full price for a device independently of any carrier.

Chrome OS is slated to launch toward the end of this year and companies such as Acer have already made it known that they plan to support the OS. With the launch of the iPad and several other tablet devices coming down the pike, Chrome OS will have a good deal of competition, however, they'll be the first to fully utilize the cloud for the majority of user data.