HP pulls overheating Chromebook 11

HP pulled its Chromebook 11 from the market because of problems with overheating power supplies. Some reports say the micro-USB supply units were creating a fire hazard. HP’s larger 14 inch Chromebook model is not affected.

The move is unlikely to affect many in New Zealand. HP doesn’t have any stock in the country.

HP has not yet said when or if it will resume Chromebook 11 sales.

Chromebook 11 was part of HP’s move away from relying on Microsoft Windows for its consumer and business product lines. It needs to be less dependent on Microsoft now the software giant is pushing its own Windows-based Surface 2 and Surface 2 Pro tablets.

It was competitively priced. The Google US site still lists the HP Chromebook 11 at US$279 – about NZ$400 after conversion and GST – although it says the model is not currently available.

HP isn’t the only hardware band loosening its Microsoft ties. Lenovo, Samsung and Acer all offer Chrome-based hardware. However, HP is the most visible. And there are reports its Chromebook lines were selling well before the overheating problem was apparent.