In September of 2008, Google surprised the world with Chrome, it’s open-source web browser. Earlier this week they shocked the tech world again with a blog post unveiling their newest project, the Chrome OS. The new operating system, which has an expected release of fall 2010, is open-source and aimed at all styles of netbooks. Google has already announced partnerships with some of the largest netbook manufacturers, including Acer, ASUS, Hewlett-Packard, and Lenovo.

The Chrome OS is Google’s attempt to “re-think what operating systems should be.” They hope to establish a light-weight platform capable of running web-apps designed for any browser. Another consideration is that currently, a majority of netbook users are running Windows XP, an eight year old operating system. I’m still not convinced that Chrome is the “Microsoft killer” that some have claimed. As I previously posted, Windows 7 will be released this fall and is capable of running on netbooks. However, Chrome is not without an audience or fan base. I’m confident many will be looking forward to this free, open-source, Linux-based alternative to Windows.

Last year Google launched its mobile OS, Android, which was well-received, but limited by small install base, and phone/carrier support. Chrome is a separate venture that is initially targeted solely at netbooks, but many speculate might develop into a desktop version. Some such as David Coursey at PC World and John Biggs at Crunch Gear are hesitant to declare Chrome a success. As the official release is over a year away, I am also staying in “wait-and-see” mode. Finally, if anyone is running the Windows 7 RC on a netbook, I’d love to hear your thoughts.