Google has made its most direct challenge to Microsoft with the launch of its new operating system, Chrome OS, which aims to surpass Windows. This marks a significant move in the battle for the future of personal computing.
With Chrome OS, users can get online much faster. The system powers up instantly and logs onto the web within seconds. During the first public demonstration in San Francisco, Google showcased that a user could be surfing the net within 60 seconds of turning on their computer.
Chrome OS also brings users closer to storing all their photographs, music, and emails online instead of on a hard drive. These files would be kept in the "cloud" on the internet and accessed from any device with an internet connection.
Eric Schmidt, Google’s Chief Executive, stated, "Cloud computing will define computing as we know it."
The first computers running Chrome OS, made by Acer and Samsung, will go on sale in mid-next year—more than six months behind schedule. Other manufacturers are expected to release devices running the software shortly afterward.
Google also announced a pilot program inviting business and personal users to test the new system, offering free computers to the first volunteers, starting with those in the US. Initially, the system will be installed on netbooks—small, inexpensive computers that outsell more powerful laptops and desktops. Eventually, Chrome OS is expected to be used on more advanced devices as well.
Some commentators argue that Google may have missed its moment, as tablet devices like the iPad are gaining popularity over netbooks. There are suggestions that the second version of the iPad will start shipping from China by February.
Cloud computing shifts the focus of operating systems from controlling desktop PCs to smaller, slimline computers that quickly access the internet. Google has been frustrated by the limitations of Microsoft's Windows software, which was not designed with cloud computing in mind.
Sundar Pichai, head of Google’s Chrome project, said, "People live on their browsers within the web. But if you look at computers today, they have nothing to do with the browser or the web. Most personal computers were designed before the web existed."
The launch will intensify the rivalry between Google and Microsoft. Windows, used on 90 percent of PCs, continues to be a major revenue source for Microsoft, alongside its Office suite, including Excel and Outlook. Microsoft has sold about 175 million copies of Windows 7, the latest version. Revenue from Microsoft's Windows division in 2009-2010 was $18.5 billion, up 23 percent from the previous year.
Chrome is Google's latest venture into Microsoft's territory. Google first launched the Chrome web browser to compete with Internet Explorer. Then, it introduced Android, an operating system for mobile phones and tablets, which has since overtaken Microsoft's Windows Mobile for smartphones.
Google also launched a new store for applications for its Chrome web browser. Offers include reading and shopping apps from Amazon and games from Electronic Arts.
