With CES nearly here, even before the official start of the year’s largest consumer electronics event, Samsung has unveiled a major announcement: the arrival of the Galaxy Chromebook 2. Considering the circumstances of 2021, traditional event markers seem less significant.

This two-in-one device launches almost exactly one year after the original model was introduced. It retains many of the appealing qualities of its predecessor, but features a considerably more accessible price. The new Chrome OS-powered laptop begins at $549, a reduction from the original’s $999 price tag.

Battery performance was a concern with the original, and remains an area of interest with this new version. The device now includes a QLED display—which Samsung claims is the first of its kind in a Chromebook—instead of the original’s 4K AMOLED screen, potentially leading to improved battery life.

The differences between the first and second generations demonstrate that manufacturers are still refining their understanding of what constitutes a “premium Chromebook.” Not long ago, the term seemed contradictory. Samsung’s computing General Manager, Shoneel Kolhatkar, effectively captures this evolving perspective in the official announcement.

Samsung’s approach mirrors Google’s transition from the Pixelbook to the Pixelbook Go. With Google currently remaining relatively quiet regarding updates to the Pixelbook line, a significant opportunity is opening up for Samsung in the market.

The Galaxy Chromebook 2 will be available later this quarter, featuring a 13.3-inch display, 4/8GB of RAM, and 64/128GB of storage. It will continue to be offered in “Fiesta Red” as well as gray, for those who prefer a different aesthetic.