Why Google's OS Won't Beat Microsoft

Move from XP may require external hard drive, patience

(NEWSER) - The latest Windows incarnation beats Vista and XP, but don’t expect a smooth transition: upgrading from XP to Windows 7 is an ordeal, writes Walt Mossberg in the Wall Street Journal. “In fact, the process will be so painful that, for many XP users, the easiest solution may be to buy a new PC preloaded with Windows 7,” Mossberg notes. More»

Fast-booting Chrome may push Vista out of the market

(NEWSER) - Google has doubled down in its battle with Microsoft. The search giant announced it is bringing out an open-source operating system, named Google Chrome OS, that looks to go head-to-head with long-dominant Windows. Chrome OS is Google's biggest push yet onto traditional Microsoft turf, reports the Financial Times, following free web-based applications, mobile phone platforms, and email. More»

Ubiquitous OS seen as security risk

(NEWSER) - Google has had it with Windows. Ever since the company's Chinese operations were hacked in January, it's been trying to tighten up security, and the Microsoft OS is the first casualty, workers tell the Financial Times . “We're not doing any more Windows,” said one, “It's a security effort.” New recruits can choose to work on a Mac or a PC running Linux, and the CIO must give special permission before employees can get a new Windows machine. More»

(NEWSER) - Google’s latest project, a Web-based lightweight OS to rival Windows, sounds pretty cool at first. “But that’s why you should be worried,” writes David Lazarus of the Los Angeles Times. The search giant has simply become too powerful for comfort. “Google accounts for an ungodly share of the money that flows through the Web,” says the antitrust lawyer who spearheaded the case against Microsoft. “That creates a lot of concern.” More»

Free upgrades for Vista PC buyers starting Friday

(NEWSER) - A pre-ordered upgrade to Microsoft’s Windows 7 operating system will cost US customers $49 or $99 from tomorrow until July 11, depending on version: Home premium or Professional, CNET reports. Also starting tomorrow, anyone who buys a new Vista PC will get a free upgrade to Windows 7 when it’s released in October, the AP adds. Full versions will sell for $199, $299, and $319 for Ultimate. More»