Ajax is making great strides in bringing desktop-like, low latency apps to the browser. What if we take it all the way and bring Ajax to the desktop? Nay, make it the desktop. The next logical step for Ajax, the Web, and computing is the so-called “Web OS.”
The Web OS would be an extremely stripped down kernel (i.e., Linux) simply running a web browser (i.e., Firefox) in full screen mode.
The traditional “start page” is becomes your desktop. The web page would be customized much like your Start or Apple menu to load pre-defined shortcuts (i.e., Webmail, or even another browser). You could even run things like word processors or spreadsheets, without the fear of being without your data when you travel.
Think about it: all of your “desktop’s” settings are stored on a central server (ahem, Google), making data accessible from anywhere. If you are using a machine without the OS, a web browser would suffice to access the same data in the same way (ala VNC.)
From a development standpoint, it gets even better. You no longer have to worry about users performing (or not performing) software updates because updates to the code are seen in real time. Versions are thrown out the window because everyone is using the latest version (no more “Have you updated to 2.0 yet?”) Simple bug fixes can be performed with no hassle in shipping another product.
So who wants to start?
10/2/2005: Update: It’s here.
