When Microsoft launched Bing , which it positioned as a decision engine opposed to a search engine, all eyes were on Google awaiting their response. Today, the tide has turned and whilst Google have made one of their most exciting announcements yet, it will be interesting to see how Microsoft reacts.
Over the last few years it has been greatly anticipated that Google would launch its own Operating System and finally the announcement has been made. Based on the Chrome browser, the innovative Google Chrome OS will be available towards the end of next year. Although for some this may seem like a long way off, Google said that they decided to make the announcement early as "..we wanted to share our vision now so everyone understands what we are trying to achieve." Initially available on netbooks only the OS will eventually be available across the board to full desk top systems.
With the end user in mind Google is adamant that "speed, simplicity and security are the key aspects" of the new OS. Claiming that current operating systems were "designed in an era where there was no web" they say that they are going to start from scratch so that the final product does not rely on virus software, malware or even security updates. Apparently they have done their research – they know that we all want our email NOW! Our machines to work really fast – just like when we got it out the box! And, finally, someone realised that we do not want to been bogged down in configuring new hardware and obtaining software updates! Yes, our whole office breathed a sigh of relief when they all heard this as well!
For now it remains a far off dream but Google promises updates in the autumn.