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Google has announced that it will delay the launch of its eagerly awaited laptop, powered by the Chrome operating system. The laptop will now be released in 2011 due to a number of bugs and unfinished features. Meanwhile, a pilot programme will be put in place for early adopters, developers, and users who are used to working with beta software. They will be given an unbranded black notebook, called the Cr-48.
Google Chrome OS differs from traditional operating systems such as Windows and Mac OS-X by using cloud computing technology aimed at users who spend most of their time on the Web. Based on Linux, Chrome OS will not be available as a download to run and install. Furthermore, it’s user interface will take a minimalist approach similar to that of the Chrome Web browser.
In a bid to make the operating system “the most secure OS ever shipped to users”, security will be top priority, with regular and automatic updates for users. In addition, Google intends to use a program called “verified boot” on Chrome OS devices, so as to prevent modification and compromise of the system. However, unlike Microsoft’s Windows OS, the Chrome OS will be given free to Google’s hardware manufacturing partners. Thus, consumer devices from Acer and Samsung are expected on the market when the operating system is released for sale in 2011.
Talking Point
Can Google successfully challenge Microsoft and Apple in the operating systems market?