Google is increasingly trying to break into the software business. When it comes to web browsers, there are really only three -- Internet Explorer, Safari and Firefox. Google is trying to break into the pack, with its brand-new open-source operating system, called Chrome.
The company is pushing hard to get Chrome pre-installed on computers getting shipped directly from the factory. Big computer companies Dell, HP, Acer and Toshiba are reportedly thinking about ditching Internet Explorer and pre-packaging Chrome instead.
The ultimate goal for Google would be to get its suite of cloud computing software pre-installed on computers, further eroding Microsoft's grip on the PC software market. Chrome is launching two new versions next month, compatible with Linux and Mac.
