Google targets globetrotters with travel promo

In a bid to tout its recently launched Chromebook as a "great travel companion," Google has teamed with an airline and a hotel chain to offer free use of its netbook during the summer travel season. Google said passengers who fly Virgin America in at least four areas may avail of free use of a Chromebook and free Wi-Fi at the terminal and on the flight. "When you fly Virgin America from San Francisco, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth or Boston, look for the Chrome Zone near your departure gate. Check out a Chromebook for free and browse away with complimentary Wi-Fi in the terminal and on your flight," product marketing manager Heaven Kim said in a blog post. "Chromebooks arrive this Friday, July 1st at Virgin America and Ace Hotel New York, and are available for the rest of the summer," Kim added. Kim said that the recently-launched Chromebook makes a great travel companion due to its eight-hour battery life, light weight, built-in Wi-Fi and optional 3G connection. Google also teamed up with Ace Hotel in New York, where guests can find a Chromebook waiting in the room. "Use it anywhere, in or out of the hotel, with free Wi-Fi and 3G connectivity," Kim said. Google also developed two new Web apps to promote the hotel - with an Ace New York Field Guide giving tips on the hottest spots in town - and the Chromebook itself with a "Beat the Boot" game. The "Beat the Boot" game challenges a player to get the highest score possible in eight seconds - the time it takes to boot a Chromebook. — TJD, GMA News