Today, Google announced what may turn out to be a dramatic shift in the way we all operate via the computer, Google Chrome OS. Actually, that is bit of a lie; we will still operate the same way. It is how we interact with the computer and the internet that may change based on this announcement. Google Chrome OS is a lightweight operating system developed initially for secondary devices. Here is the official announcement from Google:

Google Chrome OS is an open source, lightweight operating system that will initially be targeted at netbooks” and “most of the user experience takes place on the web.” That is, it’s “Google Chrome running within a new windowing system on top of a Linux kernel” with the web as the platform. It runs on x86 processors (like your standard Core 2 Duo) and ARM processors (like inside every mobile smartphone). Underneath lies security architecture that’s completely redesigned to be virus-resistant and easy to update.

What Does All That Mean

Basically, GCOS is an operating system that runs through your browser. EVERYTHING will be run through the browser in what are now called web applications. Because everything is run through your browser, almost all content will be stored on the web, or in the cloud as it is often called. Google calls this “Stateless.” An example of this that we currently use is Google Docs.

The benefits of this is that you will never have to update a program again. When a program is set to be updated, it will do it automagically in the cloud. So the next time you boot up your computer, which will only take about 10 seconds by the way with the GCOS, when you launch your browser, all your programs will be up to date.

How Does It Look

It looks just like the Google Chrome browser. You can find it here. Programs are separated into “tabs” and each tab is independent of each other. Meaning, if an issue arises in one tab, just close it and continue working in your other tabs.

When and How

Based on Google’s announcement, the OS is set to release next year. Because the GCOS is primarily designed for the web, Google plans to only introduce it on netbooks. In fact, they are working with netbook partners to create larger netbooks with full-size keyboard, larger screens, and better touchpads. The project is open source, and Google has released the code for developers.

Final Thoughts

Google is changing the way we think about organizing our information, The GCOS looks to be a first step in migrating our information from a local-based world, to a world where we can do anything we want from where ever we are. In the meantime, Google has put together some videos that better explain the experience of GCOS.

[Google Chrome OS Blog] [Official Google Blog]