Taking a page out of Microsoft’s book, Google today announced it’s launching its own Chrome OS-based laptop called the Chromebook Pixel.

Previously, Google partnered with the likes of Samsung, Acer and HP to build its Chromebooks, but when thinking about the next generation of devices, the company decided to build its own machine to compete at the higher end of the market. Think of it as a Nexus device for Chrome.

Designed for the power user, the Pixel features a 12.85-inch touchscreen with a 3:2 aspect ratio. It’s the first Chromebook to offer a touch display, but it’s not what makes the laptop newsworthy.

With the launch of Windows 8, many device manufacturers, including HP, Dell, Samsung and Sony, have released a wide range of touchscreen laptops and hybrid devices.

Instead, Google claims the Pixel has the highest pixel density of laptop screen on the market today. It has a resolution of 2,560 x 1,700 pixels at 239 pixels per inch (ppi). By comparison, the 13-inch MacBook Pro with Retina Display has a resolution of 2,560 x 1,6000 pixels at 227 ppi, and the 13-inch MacBook Air has a resolution of 1,440 x 900 at 128 ppi.

Google said the goal of the Pixel was to make the pixels disappear, so users could have the best Web experience.

The laptop is made from anodized aluminum alloy and has a backlit keyboard and a touchpad etched from glass. It’s powered by an Intel Core i5 processor and has a 32 gigabyte solid-state drive.

Google will offer two versions of the laptop. The Wi-Fi version of the Chromebook Pixel costs $1,299 and starts shipping next week. Meanwhile, the LTE version is priced at $1,499 and is expected to be available in April.

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