San Francisco: Google is releasing its cheapest Chromebook laptops yet, two versions priced at USD 149 aimed at undercutting Microsoft's Windows franchise and gaining ground in even more classrooms.

Various PC manufacturers have been working with Google to design lightweight laptops running on the Chrome operating system since 2011. The newest versions are made by Hisense and Haier. Hisense's Chromebook can be ordered beginning on Tuesday at Walmart.com and Haier's version can be bought at Amazon.com.