After recall, Google releases updated HP Chromebook 11 with newly-designed power adapter

Google recalled the power adapters to its popular little HP Chromebook 11 last week after an investigation by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission said that some of the AC adapters were overheating and could be dangerous. Google had previously pulled them off the shelves of various retailers pending the results of the investigation.

The recall was an unfortunate stain on rep of the little guy which we loved in our review (and didn’t see any overheating on) – especially since the revolutionary feature of the device was its ability to be charged by ANY micro-USB cord from almost any USB port, battery or charger (including other laptops).

Today, Google sent me an updated HP Chromebook 11 with the new power cord which actually looks like a smaller version of the Chromebook Pixel’s power supply with a micro-USB tip. The power supply is made by LITEON in China and send 5.25V of power to the Chromebook at 3.0A. That’s a lot more than your average micro-USB charge, which will still power/recharge the battery of the HP Chromebook 11, albeit at a much slower rate.

These should be shipping out to retailers and online soon. Google’s Play store still says “Coming Soon” but I imagine if I have one, Google’s Store will soon have them as well.

The new adapter works as advertised in the little amount of time I’ve given it and we can again give the green light to those who might want to pick up a last minute $269 holiday item.