Google first introduced Chrome OS as a browser based operating system for netbooks in late 2009, with plans to launch by the end of 2010, and the search engine will likely do just that at its Google Chrome event today.  The market for netbooks is not as good as it was a year ago because smartphones, tablets, and handsets have since gained in popularity.  Google then, is likely to say that it has since been using Chrome OS devices in-house and announce that it will partner with hardware companies to launch Chrome OS devices early in 2011.

A Chrome OS netbook computer will use the Linux kernel and a customized version of the Chrome web browser for its interface.   Gmail, Google Docs, Google Talk, Google calendar, and other Google applications are much more integrated with the platform, and a Google account is needed to sign in.  An online store for web applications will probably launch with Chrome OS devices so that third party software using web standards like JavaScript and HTML5 can be purchased.

Chrome OS netbooks will use mobile processors and can operate on Intel’s atom chipset, or other low powered chips used in many smartphones and tablets.  Chrome OS netbooks will use flash memory for local storage instead of a hard drive, which will allow it to boot up in about 5 seconds.

A Chrome OS device will have some offline functionality, but it is meant to be used mainly while online, probably via a Wi-Fi network.

About David John Walker

Dave has a B.A. in Mathematics, loves writing and reading about the latest developments in technology and social media, and has been working as a freelance writer for five years.