Using a Chromebook as a Developer

While Windows/MS-centric developers (.NET) have their OS decided for them, developers that deploy to Linux environments have a choice as to what their development rig will run. They can run Linux natively (Ubuntu is a good choice) or they can run a setup close to their production setup, but on a Mac. It seems like a recent trend is to move to a MacBook and Mac OS for developing when the target is Linux. Unfortunately this means spending $1,000 or more on your personal hardware. But Chrome OS and a Chromebook offers another alternative.

Using a Chromebook for software and web development has become quite popular. At a mere $200 (the Acer C7 Chromebook), getting your local development machine up and running can be very inexpensive. Check out how @zackfieldman set his up and helped University students avoid spending over a grand on Apple's hardware: Setting Up A Chromebook Development Laptop.

Acer C7 Chromebook Review

The Acer C7 Chromebookis one of the cheapest laptops you can get, anywhere. You'd be hard-pressed to find a used laptop for the price of this Chromebook. But, even though it is very inexpensive, the C7 has a lot going for it. Would I say it's the best value for your money? Read on to find out.

Chrome OS, the worry-free OS
First, the C7 Chromebook is quite different from your normal, run-of-the-mill laptop. The big difference is that it doesn't come with Windows or Mac OS. Those two operating systems are likely the only ones you've ever used, and it likely wasn't that great of an experience. How about a system that just feels like your using the internet? No more worrying about antivirus programs or backing up your data. Chrome OS and the Acer C7 Chromebook have that handled. You can't get a virus or malware with Chrome OS and all of your data is backed up to your Google Drive account. You get to just use your laptop, and not worry about anything. It also updates itself without bothering you, so you never have "Updates are ready!" or "Your computer will reboot in 5 seconds to update." popping up in your face every few days.

No Slow Downs
Have you ever noticed how a new laptop will become slower than a sloth over its first year or so? This is due to a bunch of cruft building up in your operating system. Windows does this, Mac OS does this. Heck, even some Linux OS's do this. But the Acer C7 Chromebook won't slow down. It will continue to be as fast as the day you bought it. This is because Chrome OS doesn't need to store a ton of information about every program you install. All of that info is stored in the account on the web that is associated with that program.

Light and Portable
The Acer C7 Chromebook is very light and easy to transport. It ways a mere 3 pounds and is only 1-inch thick. Most laptops weigh around 7 pounds and are much bulkier than this Chromebook. So if you're looking for a great laptop that can easily be put in your backpack or purse to take anywhere, the Acer C7 is your friend.

The Acer C7 Chromebook is the perfect computer for someone looking for a fast, light, and easy to use computer. Check out this site for a sale: Acer C7 Chromebook sale, only $199.

No more Cr-48's. For now...

And that's the end. Google has shipped the last of the Cr-48 demo units out to it's happy owner. That totals up the suspected 60,000 Chrome OS laptops that Google had built and sent for free to willing testers. Sadly, we did not receive one here at Chrome Techa. It seems that only those with the loudest voice in the media realm were deemed worthy by Google. Anywho, the Product Management VP at Google, Sundar Pichai, said they're all gone, for now.

It looks like manufacturers like Samsung and Acer are geared up to release Chrome OS notebooks to the market this summer. That's some good news, as Sammy is usually pretty good about making nice hardware. Perhaps they'll keep it simple yet sophisticated, like the Cr-48? We'll see.

Chrome OS' open source pays off, NVIDIA Ion now supported

As you might have read earlier (here), Hexxeh released another build of Chrome OS, named Flow. I covered the major new features of this open-source release, but one such feature warrants another look.

Hexxeh built in NVIDIA Ion graphics support ino Flow, with full hardware acceleration. This is one of the first major signs that Google's choice to make Chrome OS' source code open is paying off. Without open source, Chrome OS would not support NVIDIA Ion, unless Google chose to do so. And if Google didn't want to do that, Ion users would be left out in the cold. But, thanks to Hexxeh, Ion users can rejoice and Chrome OS is a stronger operating system in the end.

If Google wants Chrome OS to take on the big dogs, this might be just the way to do it. While Google's own devs are hard at work making the system better, there are also developers like Hexxeh out there doing the same thing. As they always say, the more the merrier!

Hexxeh releases ChromiumOS Flow

Hexxeh, the creator of Chromium OS images that are easy to boot from USB, has just released the latest version of his work, dubbed Flow. ChromiumOS Flow comes with a slew of new features, such as more video hardware support and automatic updates.

Here is the complete list of new additions, according to Hexxeh:

User-customisable menus (rearrange, add, delete apps on your own menu)

Automatic updates via the Velocity engine (with an all new interface from what you saw in the BETA, it’s now been integrated into the browser)

nVidia GPU support (this includes ION, and it’s fully hardware accelerated)

Realtek RTL8187SE support (RTL8192E is coming as an update soon)

Audio fix

Flash fix

Bookmark Sync fix

Power indicator fix (as long as it worked in Cherry)

Battery life improvements

Increased image size to 2GB (1GB was becoming too restrictive, needed to do this to add more hardware support, sorry!)

Webcam support (to test this, right click on a YouTube video and then click settings)

If you need a guide on how to get Flow running, we have a nice one here: Install Chrome OS to USB.

Simply download the new image and follow the rest of the instructions. Maybe this version will support our video card? Let us know how your experience goes.
You can check Hexxeh's announcement post here: It's Flow time

Chrome OS will handle media with its own player

Many people seem to be worried about what Chrome OS can't do. However, I am more concerned with what it can do. And there's another skill to add to the operating system's list: media playback. In a recent interview with Ars Technica, the directing engineer for the Chrome OS project explains that Chrome OS, without any web app in play, will be able to play your music and videos.

"...You might just have a USB key that has a bunch of MP3s on it, so you want to be able to plug that in and listen to those MP3s. There might not be any controlling webpage for that activity, but it’s clearly something you need to be able to do in any reasonable operating system or browser. So we’re doing a lot of work to make Chrome and Chrome OS handle those use cases really well"

That said, Mathew Papakipos just might have put many fears to bed. While numerous people have said that a "browser" can't do everything they need to do, this shows that Chrome OS will be able to do quite a bit. You can read the full interview here: Google talks Chrome OS, HTML5, and the future of software.

Should Apple and Microsoft be afraid of Chrome OS?

Eric Goh, of egoh.com, has an interesting slant on Chrome OS and its effect on the OS landscape. He wagers that Google's new operating system should have the big players scrambling to get something together. Because, as Goh puts it, "a simple browser based OS that is self-updating and relatively secure would solve 95% of the issues people contact me about".

Goh touches on a point I had in a recent article (which you can read here: How Chrome OS will change computers as we know them).  Chrome OS, when it is production ready, could supplant current Windows and Apple OS' for many users. These users simply want to use the web and Internet for daily routines. They rarely need to edit an image more than resizing it, they don't develop software, and they withhold from heavy video-editing. Chrome OS is perfect for what they need to do. And it will keep them out of virus and malware troubles.

So even though you see many pieces in the blogosphere with authors complaining that Chrome OS is too weak, you don't see your cousin and grandmother writing that the new OS can't do what they want. Because it can and it likely will, if the big dogs don't come up with something fast.

You can read Mr. Goh's post in its entirety here: Google Chrome OS - Microsoft and Apple should be worried

Chrome OS Zero brings new features

Hexxeh, of hexxeh.net, has released yet another customized version of Chrome OS. Chrome OS Zero is once again bootable from a a USB drive, but has additional goodies added on by hexxeh. Here is his description of the new release:

• Newer version of ChromiumOS code
• Major speed improvements for many users
• Reduced Broadcom delay
• New artwork for the boot process
• Full extension support
• Reduced download size, clocks in at under 250MB
• Still fits on a 1GB USB drive despite the new features
• Beginnings of multi-language input (requires a little terminal work to add your language as there is no UI yet)
• Quite a lot more!

You can download the new image here: Chrome OS Zero, and can follow my directions to install it here: Install Chrome OS Zero on a USB drive.

Now don't be shy, let us know how your Chrome OS Zero experience goes in the comments below!

Chrome OS to be supported by Qualcomm

Qualcomm announced at this year's CES that the chip manufacturer has added Google's Chrome OS to its supported platforms list. The company's CEO made the announcement yesterday, which is more great news for future Chrome OS machines.

Qualcomm is the maker of ARM processors, namely their Snapdragon. Google has previously revealed that their operating system will run on ARM CPUs, which are famous for extending the battery life of mobile devices.

Qualcomm also announced the production of a dual-core, 1.5 GHz Snapdragon, which will bring even more power to the architecture.

HTC and Google to make Chrome OS tablet

Rumors are coming in that HTC and Google are collaborating to make a tablet PC. HTC is the mobile device manufacturer behind such gadgets as the myTouch 3G, T-Mobile's G1 and the upcoming Nexus One. It is inferred that the tablet from the two companies will be running Google's Chrome OS and might be shown off at this year's Consumer Electronics Show.

[Via Examiner.com]

Google's Chrome OS-powered netbook specs leaked

As they announced their new operating system, Chrome OS, Google also told us that we would have to buy certain hardware to get it. They said that the machines would be similar to today's netbooks. However, that was about all we knew about Chrome OS clients. Until now.

News has now leaked about Google's Chrome OS netbook, and it sheds a bit of light on what the machine will be like. Here are the specifications of Google's Chrome OS machine:

• 10.1-inch high-definition display with multi-touch input 
• NVIDIA Tegra graphics card 
• 2 GB of RAM 
• 64 GB SSD 
• Wifi, Bluetooth and 3G radios 
• USB sockets 
• Ethernet jack 
• 3.5 mm audio output 
• webcam 
• 4 or 6 cell battery 
• optional GPS radio 

These are quite impressive features for a netbook, namely the 64 GB SSD. But the real kicker is the price, which is slated to be under $300 and maybe even around $200. That's very competitive compared to current netbooks. And it will probably need to be by the time it is released next year (2010). It is also believed that Google will sell the Chrome OS netbook through their own website.

So what do you think? Is this a deal that would entice users to leave Windows XP behind? Or is Chrome OS not all it's cracked? Let us know in the comments!

Google looking to make their own Chrome OS netbook

If you follow the Internet-bred rumours, then you might be looking forward to a supposed Google-released Chrome OS netbook. This differs from previous assumptions that Chrome OS netbooks will be produced and badged by computer manufacturing companies. For example, we were expecting netbooks made by the likes of MSI and Dell, or even the first announced Acer Chrome OS netbook. We didn't expect Google to contract out their own machine build and make a "Google Netbook". However, that is exactly what some recent whisperings are pointing to.

I see this as the perfect long-run marketing move by the search engine company. If Google wants something that people will be flocking to buy, they need to make it perfect. And what better way to make the perfect netbook than tightly controlling how it is built? If Google makes their own Chrome OS netbook, they will be able to dictate exactly how it is made and how it runs. They won't have to rely on HP or ASUS to make a netbook that runs Chrome OS like a champ.

This is a page straight from the book of Apple. The Cupertino-based company has never let another computer manufacturer make a Mac computer. There has never been an officially backed machine running Mac OS that wasn't completely planned out by Apple. And look where they are now: Leading desktop computer sales in October of 2009. And I dare you to find me a Mac doesn't run Mac OS perfectly. This is the future of a Google netbook running a Google operating system.

So what do you think? Is a Google-produced Chrome OS netbook a good idea? Or will the Google end up crawling back to what it does best, powering your searches and serving ads? Let us know in the comments?

Opera wants to put their browser in Chrome OS

It's obvious that Chrome OS will be (and already somewhat is) revolutionary to the world of computers. The operating system from Google will change the industry drastically if it gains popularity, and it looks like it will. However, there are still a few missing pieces of the puzzle for some users.

For example, what if I want to run an application that isn't a web application? What if I don't really want to use the Chrome web browser? Chrome is quick and efficient, but some people are accustomed to another browser and don't want to change. Well, Opera's chief standards officer, Charles McCathieNevile, says that won't be a problem, especially if you want to user the Opera browser instead of Chrome.

Opera says that they will be able to stick their browser in Chrome OS as an addon to Chrome. Then users will be able to use their familiar Opera browser functions and still enjoy a solid, fast Chrome OS. Opera seems to be doing exactly what software companies should do when the face of their industry changes. And that is develop new ways to remain part of the computing equation. Instead of shouting that Chrome OS will be a failure, why not stick your product or service in it and continue on with life?

So what do you think? Let us know in the comments!

Chrome OS Updated (Cherry Version)

Our faithful beast of a hacker, hexxeh, has come through again. And this time, it's you Broadcom wireless users that are in for joy.

Hexxeh announced his new Chromium OS build today, stating that "ChromeOS Cherry released with new Broadcom/Ralink support and many bugfixes! Broadcom WiFi works, but you need to wait about 5 minutes after booting to connect to a network." The new build is deemed "Cherry", apparently following the soda references that the last build (Chrome OS Diet) started.

Pretty cool. Maybe Google should hire this guy for PR? Or even for developing Chrome OS? Well, if you interested in installing "ChromeOS Cherry" you can download the USB image here: Chrome OS Cherry.
And we have some instructions for first time users here: Install Chrome OS to USB
Hexxeh, this better be all-natural cherry, not that artificial flavoring crap. Let us know how this build tastes to you down there in the comments!

First Chrome OS Netbook

The news that Acer will be the first manufacturer to release a Chrome OS netbook is making the rounds about the interwebs. The world's second largest computer manufacturer (HP is number one) has announced that it is backing Google's Chrome OS and plans to ship a netbook featuring the system.

They haven't announced what the hardware will consist of, but I have to agree with Kevin Tofel over at jkOnTheRun.com. He proposes that Acer should wrap that Chrome OS around an ARM-based machine, which is a great idea. Think about it: Chrome OS is web-based, so users will be doing a lot of web browsing, which I do anyways. With its top-notch web-browser, the iPhone and iPod Touch are great little browsing machines. And they're powered by ARM CPUs. Also, they feature impressive battery life while browsing.

So think of a small-form notebook with ~15-hour battery life and a bigger screen than the iPhone for doing all your in-browser action. Sounds like a winner to me. And if Acer doesn't step up, I know another manufacturer will, so it's only a matter of time.

As for Acer's machine, the Taiwan-based company says it will be available to consumers in the second half of 2010.

Install Chrome OS (64-bit version)

Oh how they are coming out of the woodwork now! Here is the latest Chrome OS build, created by our good friends over at Chromiumos64.org. As you might have gathered from their domain name, they have created a 64-bit version of Chrome OS for your enjoying.

However, the installation process seems a bit involved (it includes six 200 MB downloads). I would be happy to take the plunge, but the resident 64-bit machine (an AMD Turion 64 X2) is under lock and key. It isn't owned by me per say (another inhabitant of the Magna Techa group HQ owns it) and I'm not ready to go flipping tape decks on it just yet.

So get on it, you heiresses of the 32-bit era. Let us know what you find down there in the comments!
[Via Chromiumos64.org]

Chrome OS build on 1 GB USB drive

Hexxeh, the original Chrome OS on USB drive-build maker, has brought us a new build. This one does not necessitate a 4 GB USB drive, but fits on the lowly 1 GB drives many of us have lying around. So get your installation pants on and follow the instructions here: Install Chrome OS on a USB Drive.

And don't forget to download the new build here: Chrome OS Diet USB version.

I'll be sure to check it out as well, once the download link starts working... Hmm this seems familiar

Install Chrome OS on Asus Eee PC

After the adventure with the Dell Mini 10v and Chrome OS, some of you other netbook users may be feeling a little left out out. Well, now there is a guide to installing Chrome OS on Asus's Eee PC. I'm not sure if I would do this if the Eee PC is your main man in the computing area, as Chromium OS is still pretty rough around the edges. But if you like to live on the edge hit up this link for the full guide: How to Install Chrome OS on Asus Eee PC 701.
[Via Sampletheweb.com]

Got a Dell Mini 10v? We've got a Chrome OS Image for You!

Recently, some developers at Dell have prepared a Chrome OS specially for the Dell Mini 10v. The Mini 10v is one of Dell's netbooks and is very close to the type of hardware that Google wants to use when Chrome OS is released to consumers.

So do you have a Dell Mini 10v? I don't, but I am downloading the USB image to inspect the changes that the Dell developers have made. Apparently they have gotten the wireless network feature in Chrome OS to play nice with Broadcom hardware. It's pretty cool to see employees of such a heavyweight as Dell playing with Chrome OS.

However, if you don't have a Mini 10v, you have time to buy one. And by that I mean, time to work at McDonald's, save up enough money to buy the netbook, and then wait until Chrome OS' final version is released. Unfortunately, this is due to the dismal download rate of the image. I have been downloading it for 18 hours and it has three days left running at 20 kB/s (it is a 7.5 GB file).

So has anyone tried the image out? If so, do you mind torrenting it and sharing the love? I will be sure to bring you my findings on the custom Chrome OS build as soon as I can get my hands on it. And if you already have, let us know what you think in the comments!

You can check out the post from Dell here:
Chrome OS Wi-Fi Support Running on a Mini 10v... Source Code Available

Chromium OS Testing: Gateway Laptop via USB Install

As you know, I have installed Chrome OS (Chromium OS) to a USB drive. I am now testing it on an old laptop of mine. Here are the specs for the machine:

Gateway MT6729
2 GB RAM
Intel Core 2 Duo CPU (1.6 GHz)
160 GB HDD
Intel Graphics
15.4" screen
Atheros Wireless Internet

So after a few hours of playing around with Chromium OS, I have discovered the things that work and the things that do not work (for my machine).

Functioning Features
- Wired Internet connection
- Log in works as expected
- My Google credentials sign me into all Google web apps
- Flash video (with fullscreen mode)
- Audio works
- Most apps open as expected (malfunctions cited below)- The Books app takes you to a Google Books version of Alice In Wonderland :)
- Chromium OS did detect my USB mouse and it works properly, including the scroll wheel
-Surprisingly, the USB install of Chromium OS actually remembered by bookmarks after shutdown. I'm not sure if this is a "cloud"-based feature or if it is writing them to the drive somehow...
- The power button on the laptop causes a proper shutdown

Non-functioning Features
- The Contacts app oddly brings up Gmail Chat, I was expecting a shot to my contacts in Gmail instead
- The calculator would not load for me
- The "To-do list" brought up the old sign on for an @google.com account (which we do not have)
- Chess did bring up a Flash-powered web app for playing chess
- Wireless networking does not work in Chrome OS on my machine, as of now
-  There's an odd bug that will either sign me out or crash the browser every so often (does not seem to be on a set time interval).
- Other hardware buttons (i.e. volume, mute, media controls) do nothing

The State of Chromium OS: Week 1
All in all, Chromium OS is running much better than I would have predicted. I am using it on unsupported and untested hardware (not the recommended notebook) and it is a very early build. I am quite impressed with the speed of Chromium OS and how well it works even this early in the game. Have you booted your PC with Chromium OS? What did you think about it? Let us know in the comments!

Edit: And as noted in the comments, a reader has booted Chrome OS on an even older (1.8 GHz single-core) rig. Read about his or her experience below.