Google has announced the Google Chrome Operating System.
The Chrome OS will be open source and run on x86 and ARM machines. The release date is set for the second half of 2010 and will first appear on Netbooks. The main point of the OS is to build a simple and fast OS that is made to run web apps. A literal translation of the browser is the OS.
So will the Chrome OS run a Mac?
Since the Chrome OS is linux based and works with x86 processors (same as the Intel Macs) there should be no technical reason why the OS would not work. Since the Chrome OS is being billed as open source and open to developers, I’m sure support for the Mac will come quickly. Besides, I’ve been to the Google campus many times and the place is full of Macs.
So why do we need a new OS? Google believes strongly in the cloud computing model. They’ve correctly stated that the foundation for todays operating systems “were designed in an era where there was no web.” This is Google’s attempt to simplify and speed up the web.
Will cloud computing and web apps fundamentally change the way we use computers? Do people want to have their data and apps locally as apposed to on some company’s server? Can web apps ever be as powerful as desktop apps? The Chrome OS may be one step closer in finding answers to these questions.
Either way, I can’t wait to try it out on my Mac.
[ Google Chrome OS ]
Airline travel is not always a fun and relaxing experience (especially in coach.) Between shrinking leg room and reduced amenities, long trips can feel like torture.
When you book online (places like Orbitz) you now have the option of selecting the seat you want in the class you paid for. Even in the same class, the leg room and overall comfort can vary depending on the Airline and specific airplane.
SeatGuru is a website that gives you valuable details on legroom, seat layouts and amenities.
You can search their extensive database by Airline and plane model to see a complete seatmap with legroom specs, power outlets, lavatory access and other details.
I came across the site while looking for what airlines use what power outlets for plugging in my laptop. Some airlines have standard US wall outlets and others use the airline power standard (looks like a car outlet.)
They also have nice compare feature that allows you to compare airlines in the same class. For example, you can see who has the most legroom for international coach between the airlines you’re looking to book with.
SeatGuru is free and is provided through TripAdvisor. Definitely worth checking out before booking your next flight.
[ SeatGuru ]
Running out of battery power on your phone in the middle of nowhere can be an interesting experience, so here’s a way to charge up your phone wherever you have sun shine.
The Solio Magnesium Edition lets you charge your iPhone using solar power. Flip it open to reveal the flower shaped solar cells. The small battery inside stores enough power for two full charges, letting you charge up the Solio during the day and plug in your phone at night.
You can also use the supplied AC adapter to charge the internal battery when you’re at home. Works with a number of other cell phones using iGo adapters. Cost – $169.95
[ Solio ]
