The Google PC For Only $200.00?

Well here's something new. According to PCWorld, the new, low price pointed gPC goes on sale at WalMart today. The budget model desktop is running off a mix of Open Source software like OpenOffice, Ubuntu Linux , and certain Google Applications. Use of these software applications is the reason that PC maker, Everex, was able to keep the price so low.

But what about the hardware you ask? It doesn't seem to shabby. The package consists of a "1.5GHz Via C7-D processor, Via UniChrome Pro IGP graphics core, and comes equipped with 512MB of memory, an 80GB hard drive, a DVD-ROM/CD-RW combo drive, and has built-in Ethernet." Now I am sure that most of the components are integrated and I wouldn't be surprised if you weren't able to upgrade it, but it is a great entry level computer for a baby booming first timer or even children.

Ramon McLeod from PCWorld goes on to say - "...the real secret sauce is a software suite that begins with what the company calls its "gOS," which turns out to be a customized Ubuntu Linux kernel. The software bundle includes open source desktop applications highlighted by OpenOffice, GIMP photo software, the Xing DVD and video player, and Rhythmbox music management software.

Additionally, the PC's user interface includes icons pointing to popular Google applications such as Documents and Spreadsheets, Calendar, News, and Maps. Also pre-installed is the Firefox web browser, Meebo IM, and Skype."

This is a pretty exciting development in the PC world. To think, that I paid over $2200.00 for my first Cybermax 233 computer with a 1G hard drive. AND I had to buy a printer seperately.

This really opens the doors for individuals who were previously unable to afford a computer. There are 2 things I will be watching. Total sales of the gPC and reliability of the new box. It will be interesting for sure.

Coupled with speculation about the new Google Phone, I wonder if this has anything to do with with the $700 Google stock price?