Google Chrome OS FAQ

Google has made quite an impact by announcing the Chrome OS and its indeed sending waves though the tech world with some saying the OS signals the beginning of the end for the reign of Microsoft and there are others who say that Google will fall flat on its face and fail. Without more specifics only time will say for sure how big of a splash the OS will really make. Google pledges to release more information regarding the OS later this summer.

This leaves us with lots of questions and few answers. Until Google decides to share more, we'll try to make the best of what we've got in this FAQ.

What is Chrome OS?

Chrome OS is a Linux-based operating system developed by Google which promises to focus on Web applications while integrating a fast and simple interface, based off Google's existing Chrome browser.

Who will use it?

Chrome OS is initially targeted at the netbook market, but Google plans to offer the OS for computers all the way up to full-size desktops. Chrome supports both x86 and ARM architectures, which means that most computers and possibly some mobile devices will be able to run Chrome OS.

What will it look like?

As Google says Chrome OS will run a heavily modified version of Chrome browser so it may resemble chrome with a dock full of apps.

What will become of my computer's desktop?

Nothing..period. When it releases,dual boot it :P The Linux kernel is flexible, so anything's possible.

How will my computer stay secure?

Google claims that it will design Chrome OS's security infrastructure so users "don't have to deal with viruses, malware and security updates." It may or may not be possible since protection measures are itself built into Chrome OS itself.But still flaws are always there.

No computer is truly virus-proof. What will happen if mine gets one?

Good question. Its a common perception that Linux doesn't gets viruses but its only because its a low profile OS and its not targeted as much as Windows,but Chrome will make it an attractive target for virus makers. It's not known what security measures will be in place to save a compromised computer. Probably Linux based Anti-viruses will surface from AV giants like Norton and Kaspersky exclusive to Chrome.

Should I be worried about privacy when entrusting my OS to Google?

This issue has already raised eyebrows by some privacy advocates. Earlier, the company took heat for the way it collected data from Chrome users, and had to make concessions. Until Google can explain how an entire operating system won't be any more intrusive than its existing data-collection practices on the Web, privacy is a valid concern.

Will Chrome OS computers resemble Macs or Windows-based PCs at all?

As Google truly intends for Chrome OS to be a Web-centric OS and their official statement states that Google is "working with multiple OEMs to bring a number of netbooks to market next year." We could see a new line of computers built exclusively for Chrome OS.

Will we see applications exclusive to Chrome OS?

Nah..as the operating system stresses Web apps above all (think it like addons for Mozilla Firefox). Furthermore, Google itself says Web apps "will run not only on Google Chrome OS, but on any standards-based browser on Windows, Mac and Linux thereby giving developers the largest user base of any platform."

Will we see applications that won't run on Chrome OS?

Without a doubt. If Chrome OS could perform every task, it'd be another Windows or OS X, and that's not what Google is trying to do. Don't expect to run Crysis, or Minesweeper.

Will "Favorite Application X" run on Chrome OS?

Depends upon the software dev if it supports the OS or if Google is interested in the program.It's conceivable (till date) that Microsoft won't support a Chrome OS-compatible Office suite, but Google could make things going by building out its Docs suite to match.

When will Chrome OS be released?

It will become available later this year, first for outside programmers to begin tinkering. It'll reach the netbook market in the second half of 2010, according to sources quoted in The New York Times.

I m keeping my fingers crossed..Period