Taking a look at Google’s very own OS

Google announced last year that they would be releasing their very own open source operating system which will be based on Linux and will run on specifically designed hardware only. Google developers began coding the operating system last year inspired by the idea of an operating System for netbooks which has a low-power consumption, is very minimalistic and can intergrate with Google’s web applications such as Google Docs.

So is Google Chrome OS just like my Google Chrome web browser? Well.. yes it is, seeing as most people only use their computer solely for accessing the internet Google have come up with the idea of having your browser as your OS. Because the typical netbook takes around 45 Seconds to boot, a netbook running Google Chrome OS would have the ability to be up and running and on the internet within a matter of seconds.

The user interface will be using minimal screen space (Just like that of the Chrome browser) by combining applications and standard Web pages into a single tab strip, rather than separating the two. Secondary tasks shall be handled with “panels” which are basically floating windows that dock to the bottom of the screen, ideally for tasks like instant messagers and music players. Split screens are also under consideration for viewing two pieces of content side-by-side, like the feature of Windows 7.

Google will also be integrating a media player capable of music playback, picture viewing etc. into the operating system, and all in all GoogleChrome OS should run very quick and be a pleasurable experience on netbooks.

What about Android? Well, Google class GoogleChrome OS and Android as two very different operating systems: one for netbooks and full internet use, whilst Android is for mobile use, so alot of applications are stripped down due to the lack of memory and processing power compared to a netbook. However they do believe that sometime in the future they may get merged together.

Why not check out Google’s release video on ChromeOS?

Google Chrome OS is set to be on your netbooks sometime this year. I reckon GoogleChrome OS, with the speed and efficiency of all web applications being integrated into the operating system, will be successful. Microsoft now have a big threat towards Windows on netbooks.

Stay tuned to DigiLounge for the latest on Google Chrome OS!