Google on Friday outlined changes to its Chromebook subscription model for business and schools, along with other details. Based on feedback from organizations such as schools and businesses, it has changed its three-year plans to one-year cycles to better match their annual budgets. The three-year plans will still be offered, however.
The organizations can now pay upfront for one-year of access to the web-based admin management console, phone support and hardware warranty coverage. Educational facilities can buy the Wi-Fi system for $449 with the 3G version for $519, while businesses will be charged $559 for the Wi-Fi model and $639 for the 3G version. For years two and three, schools need to pay $5 per month per Chromebook for management and support, while businesses will get a $13 per month bill for the same service.
Google also added group policy management, shipment tracking, and asset management features to the web-based management panel.
