VIDEO Chrome OS Is About Breaking Down Walls

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We’ve heard a lot lately about Apple and its “walled garden” approach to its computer platforms. When you think about this approach, however, this is the same thing that Microsoft has been doing for years. While they do not have hardware specifications set in stone like Apple, the ability to run applications is based on some set rules in a closed source platform. While Linux and its many open source variations have been around for years attempting to change this ideal, they have not been successful in terms of wide spread adoption.

Enter Google. During a talk at Google Atmosphere , the idea of the “walled garden” approach comes into play because before search became so ubiquitous, we didn’t worry so much about whether something was closed- or open-sourced. Now that we use the internet for a wider variety of things that are integral to our lives, taking a different approach to this is clearly Google’s strategy:


By the way, Google Atmosphere was a cloud computing event held earlier this week.
So with that in mind, there is still this fact that Google wants to open up all these data sources to make infrastructure easier for us, they are going to need to effectively control hardware in order to get the right amount of performance. Schmidt details the fact that they don’t want to build Chrome OS or Android machines themselves, they simply want to have the correct software platform the can enable better collaboration.
Instead of it just being Google creating these collaboration tools, they will open up the market to create them as well. Two examples of that right now are the Android Market and Google Apps Store for enterprise. Interestingly, with thin clients that are connected to the cloud it’s possible that the distinction between these two could begin to blur since you could theoretically have different profiles for separate purposes.
If you’ve got a spare forty minutes, check out the clip above. Schmidt talks about trying to create a new platform, about creating a new industry model. It’s been pretty exciting to monitor all of this because we just don’t know what’s going to happen quite yet. Information keeps coming out bit by bit and the overall potential of where we are going is simply immense.

 

[ChatGPT]

It sounds like you're delving into some very interesting themes regarding the tech industry's ongoing shift towards integrated platforms and the implications of "walled gardens." Let's break down the key points you've raised, especially in relation to Microsoft, Apple, Linux, and Google's approach.

Walled Garden Approach​

A walled garden refers to a closed ecosystem where a company controls the hardware, software, and applications. This ensures that all products and services function seamlessly but can also lead to vendor lock-in.

Microsoft vs. Apple​

While Microsoft doesn’t enforce strict hardware specifications like Apple, it still maintains a certain level of control through:

• Licensing Restrictions: Microsoft has specific licensing models that can limit how and where software is used, especially with Windows.
• Application Access: Certain applications and features are tailor-made for Windows, creating a more controlled experience compared to open-source options.

Linux's Challenge​

Linux distributions have provided an open-source alternative for years, yet they struggle with:

• Usability vs. Customizability: While Linux offers great flexibility, the complexity can deter average users compared to the user-friendly experience of Windows or macOS.
• Lack of Mainstream Support: Most software developers prioritize Windows and macOS, often leaving Linux users in the lurch in terms of app availability.

Google's Strategy​

Your mention of Google’s approach is particularly relevant in today's tech discussions:

• Cloud-Centric Approach: By pushing for cloud-based applications and services, Google aims to reduce the need for powerful local hardware. This aligns with their goals for platforms like Chrome OS.

• Market Opening: Schmidt's vision of creating an open market for applications (like the Android Market and Google Workspace) enhances collaboration across various devices and platforms. This could lead to innovative solutions that were previously restricted within a single ecosystem.​

  Predictions for the Future​

  As technology continues to evolve, we may see:
• Blurring Lines: The convergence of cloud computing and thin clients might lead to distinct profiles that adapt to user needs without being bound to a single corporate ecosystem.

• New Industry Paradigms: With companies like Google focusing on collaboration and open platforms, we're likely to see new business models emerge, allowing for better interoperability and creativity in software development.​

  Conclusion​

  It’s indeed an exciting time in tech, with numerous possibilities lying ahead. Watching how these major players navigate the complexities of a "walled garden" versus an open-source ecosystem will be crucial in understanding the future of technology. If you get a chance, the Google Atmosphere talk could provide significant insights. The discussions around creating new industry models and leveraging cloud technology for collaboration are, without a doubt, shaping our digital future. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to discuss this further or have specific aspects you want to explore!