The new Chrome netbooks??

[epatterson]

I presume you have all heard of the new Google Chrome Netbooks the "Chromebook" that are soon to be released. I was just wondering what people though about a Browser releasing a full operation system? That and what your opinions is on Google's decision to directly compete with microsoft something they said they weren't going to do...

I leave it to you I would love to hear your opinions.

[deepsand]

Chrome OS is not an operating system; it is a browser functioning as the GUI for an embedded instance of Linux.

A Chromebook is simply a terminal tethered to a server in the cloud.

[kpmedia]

I want to use one from pure curiosity, but would never trust it with actual data.
I'd much rather just use an iPad.

[kgun]

I want to use one from pure curiosity, but would never trust it with actual data.
I'd much rather just use an iPad.
If you are related to the Ukrainian company http://www.kpmedia.com.ua/ be careful with posts like this. Your branding can be negative for the company. Why not start by introducing yourself and write more informative posts? They are short, but not too bad, though:roll:.

[epatterson]

Chrome OS is not an operating system; it is a browser functioning as the GUI for an embedded instance of Linux.

A Chromebook is simply a terminal tethered to a server in the cloud.

Which system will it be running on then, is it linux based I was under the impression that Google had made the whole kaboodle. Be great if you could clear that up for me.

or if I have missunderstood it isn't really using one, in the conventional sense.

[deepsand]

Which system will it be running on then, is it linux based I was under the impression that Google had made the whole kaboodle. Be great if you could clear that up for me.

or if I have missunderstood it isn't really using one, in the conventional sense.
Chromebooks have a Linux kernel, along with the Chrome browser, embedded in firmware.

You will not be able to use the Linux kernel as as general purpose OS; you will not be able to install and run applications of your own free choosing.

Everything that you do must be done via the browser, using web based applications approved by Google.

[epatterson]

Chromebooks have a Linux kernel, along with the Chrome browser, embedded in firmware.

You will not be able to use the Linux kernel as as general purpose OS; you will not be able to install and run applications of your own free choosing.

Everything that you do must be done via the browser, using web based applications approved by Google.

Hmmm interesting, I can half see the point of it. In your opinion do you think it will be long before they release a full operating system of there own and for that matter none browser sofware/applications?

Seems like they are stepping up there game a bit, I am just interested to see where its all going.

[deepsand]

Hmmm interesting, I can half see the point of it. In your opinion do you think it will be long before they release a full operating system of there own and for that matter none browser sofware/applications?
IMO, not going to happen. Producing and supporting a full blown general purpose platform agnostic OS is neither easily nor cheaply done. And, it is unnecessary to Google's wants.


Seems like they are stepping up there game a bit, I am just interested to see where its all going.
Indeed they are; but, not with regards to IT. Google is actually an advertising company masquerading as an IT services provider.

The real goal of Chromebooks is to grow their legion of Google addicts, in a manner that will further extend their data gathering tentacles in users' activities, so as to be better able to provide targeted advertising.

Think of a Chromebook as being a universal Google Toolbar.

[kpmedia]

If you are related to the Ukrainian company http://www.kpmedia.com.ua/ be careful with posts like this. Your branding can be negative for the company. Why not start by introducing yourself and write more informative posts? They are short, but not too bad, though:roll:.
Not from Ukraine, and have never even heard of that company. I think my posts are fine. Length reflects the thoughts at hand -- sometimes short, sometimes long. I'm not part of the Facebook generation, I value my privacy, and have no inclination to "introduce myself". But thanks for the off-topic criticism anyway.

Back on topic...


Google is actually an advertising company masquerading as an IT services provider.
I don't know that I could even agree with that part. I think Google is out to make money, with whatever technical method currently works. Social media is "in thing" right now, and they've tried several times to break into that arena. The latest attempt is this new +1 button. Phones, computers, email, advertising networks, etc. It's the kind of variation you'd see in an investment firm portfolio.

[deepsand]

I don't know that I could even agree with that part. I think Google is out to make money, with whatever technical method currently works. Social media is "in thing" right now, and they've tried several times to break into that arena. The latest attempt is this new +1 button. Phones, computers, email, advertising networks, etc. It's the kind of variation you'd see in an investment firm portfolio.
Look at their publicly released earnings data; they are overwhelmingly dependent on ad revenues, as fact that they make no attempt at hiding.

[mikmik]

I don't even think you can store data on the hard drive of a chrome netbook, I don't think you can even explore the HDD for folders and files.
I know that you can't install 3rd party software.
Just google (haha) chrome netbook reviews. I haven't seen a good rating yet, or even an 'it has possibilities' consideration. The multimedia is supposed to be very poor and all manner of stuff like that is handled by add-ons and plugins and extensions.
It's not only a thin client, as deepsand remarks, it's nothing but skin and bones - no muscle!

[deepsand]

There is no HD on a Chromebook, only an SSD.

It neither uses a file system accessible to the user, nor locally stores user files; they're all in the cloud.