Where's My Google PC? (Your Browser as Your Computer)

Slate ^ | July 3, 2006 | Paul Boutin

[PJ-Comix]

For a sneak peek at the future of computing, go to YouOS and click "Try a Demo." Your browser window turns into a desktop of its own, with sub-windows for e-mail, chat, and Web browsing. There are also links on the YouOS desktop for a sticky-notes program and a rich-text editor. But these programs aren't on your hard drive—they're running somewhere in the vast unknown Internet.

[PJ-Comix]

I just signed up with YouOS. It seems kinda kewl but where is the word program? If the browser is supposed to work like a PC shouldn't there at least be this program or will that be coming later. If anyone else signs up with YouOS, let me know what you think of this system. Also will this make it so the type of computer you have is beside the point (assuming you have a fast connection)?

[PJ-Comix]

FYI. Would like to read your thoughts on this.

[Michael Goldsberry]

Do you even know what an OS is?

[PJ-Comix]

Yes. What is this some sort of quiz? I don't answer right and I LOSE the trip to Hawaii?

[Michael Goldsberry]

Yes, it is a quiz. If you answer incorrectly, the DUmmies make fun of you.

[djf]

Apple will sue them. You can't have a trash bin. That was part of some of the original Apple OS's, that's why MS calls it a "Recycle Bin"

[PJ-Comix]

Well, check it out. Easy sign up at YouOS.Com. Mainly they need more programs. Of course, they are inviting folks to upload their own programs for general use.

[Michael Goldsberry]

Incorrect answer.

[randog]

If I have to rely on "web developers" for all my computer apps then just shoot me now.

[Khepera]

Heres the deal... that is not an operating system it is an application you still need an operating systen to boot your computer and tell it how to perform. Secondly after they get you using it be ready to have to pay a yearly subscription.

[PJ-Comix]

Well, I'm going to check to see what kind of aps they add on.

[ThePythonicCow]

you still need an operating systen to boot your computer and tell it how to perform.

True - though all I'd need would be an operating system capable of running a modern web browser. That can be alot less maintenance and cost than running the apps yourself.

Secondly after they get you using it be ready to have to pay a yearly subscription

You always pay somehow. Impoverished programmers pay with their time. Others pay by using advertisement funded services (such as Google search is now ;). Others pay with new versions of Windows every few years, plus a handful of virus, spam, spyware, rootkit and maintenance software, to keep their system from getting overrun with malware. Others just get the new version of Windows, and pay with reduced performance and reliability, after they get overrun with malware. Others spend the time and download bandwidth, or dollars at the store, to get a copy of Linux. Others pay increased hardware prices to Apple, for the included operating system.

Please spare me your outrage at the thought you might have to pay for something.