Don't ever say Google doesn't remember its true friends! Sure, the official retail launch of both the Samsung and Acer Chromebooks is still June 15th, but Google's granting some fortunate Cr-48 owners some early access. The email above has been appearing in lots of inboxes, and as you can see, it offers Cr-48 pilot program participants a chance to buy Samsung's Series 5 Chromebook right now from Gilt Groupe. However, what these special few won't be getting is a price break -- the 12.1-inch, 3G-equipped laptop is available for $499, although, that does include a "limited-edition Chromebook sleeve." It sure is a nice way to get a jump on the product — it says it will be delivered on June 8th — but according to the site, the sale is final and non-refundable. That's a bit disconcerting considering we've only gotten a brief look at it at Google I/O and the reviews aren't out yet, but we guess these are beta-tester friends after all!

[Thanks Justin and everyone else who sent this in]

Update: Turns out some non-Cr-48 users have gotten this invite as well. Hmm...