ASUS has announced a new version Chrome OS-powered mini desktop computer known as the Chromebox.

The Mac mini-like Chromebox 3 is notable due to the presence of the 8th generation Intel Core ‘i’ processors (no word on which yet), which are still yet to appear on a host of popular Windows 10 PCs.

It also includes a USB-C port, for the first time, as well as pair of HDMI ports and a DisplayPort connection.

The device, announced during CES 2018, also offers dual-band 802.11ac Wi-Fi, as well as gigabit LAN. All of that should make 4K video streaming an absolute doddle.

Asus hasn’t announced the full spec sheet, but says the business-focused device will be available later in 2018. Pricing is also still to be confirmed.

Depending on the numbers the bean counters come up with, this could be a decent option as a media streamer as well as a portable desktop PC. Especially considering the relatively recnt addition of the Google Play store to the Chrome OS ecosystem.

The launch of the Chromebox 3 comes as Apple fans’ continue to hope for a new version of the cult favourite Mac mini.

Back in October, an email allegedly sent to a user saw Apple CEO Tim Cook pledge the diminutive desktop was still “an important part of our product line going forward.” At the time Cook reportedly said it wasn’t the right time to share more details.

Source: trustedreviews.com