Larry Page, one of the co-founders and product directors of Google, will deliver a keynote speech at CES 2006 this coming Friday, where one of the most intriguing products in history will be “unveiled.”
Google plans to launch a $200 computer that runs its own operating system and will distribute the product through Wal-Mart. All of this information may be “revealed” this Friday.
Yesterday, the Los Angeles Times ran a tantalizing headline, citing anonymous sources. Previously, experts from investment firm Bear Stearns confirmed that Google was preparing to release a “box” capable of streaming all digital media content downloaded from the internet to all the electronic systems in your home, via either wireless or wired connections.
There are also growing rumors within tech circles that Google is about to launch a line of simple, streamlined personal computers named Google Cube. To operate, this PC will need to connect to a server—which explains why Google has been acquiring numerous cable companies over the past year.
This affordable computer will utilize a brand new operating system developed by Google itself, neither Windows nor Linux. Do you recall the recent high-profile recruitment of super developers by the company? According to the Los Angeles Times, this team is busy building a completely new operating system for Google Cube along with all the accompanying applications.
Opportunity for Success
Imagine this: Google will produce millions of small, affordable computers (rumored to be under $200) that can instantly connect with computers, TVs, sound systems, or other electronic devices in your home. All existing issues with VoIP or IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) will be resolved immediately when you have a Google Cube in hand and connect it to the cable network that Google is developing. If this information is accurate, it could certainly revolutionize the market.
However, this information has also raised skepticism among many. In the past, there have been numerous comments suggesting that Google wants to break into the operating system market, but in reality, there hasn’t been a compelling reason to conclude this is a good idea. Google’s core strength lies in internet advertising—most of its revenue comes from this source—and its search engine brand. Whether this brand is strong enough to penetrate into other challenging areas, such as computer hardware, remains an open question.
Can it dethrone Microsoft? Perhaps, but there is still a very long way to go between launching a Google operating system and taking down Microsoft, especially in the desktop sector. Apple has been unable to make significant headway, and Linux has not achieved much success either, despite both companies having tried for many years.
