Chrome OS not a concern for Intel, say they welcome the competition

Earlier this morning I highlighted the current list of launch partners for the Chrome OS from Google and as I mentioned Intel was not on that list. Of course, Intel may have been left off because they have already given their support for another netbook operating system — Moblin. However the announcement of the Chrome OS does not appear to be making Intel nervous.

For those unfamiliar, Moblin is a recent newcomer into the netbook OS market, they are currently at v2.0, which is still being listed as a beta. According to the Moblin.org webpage:

“Moblin is an open source project focused on building a Linux-based platform optimized for the next generation of mobile devices including Netbooks, Mobile Internet Devices, and In-vehicle infotainment systems”

According to recent statements from Michael Chen, director of Intel’s embedded sales group and ultra mobility group in Asia-Pacific:

“Intel doesn’t see Google Inc.’s new operating system built around its Chrome browser as a threat to Moblin”

And furthermore, they are actually looking forward to the competition because it “will drive up more innovations and that’s food for consumers.” Sounds great, and what a way to make some fans, by coming off as they are playing nice. Of course, it would also appear as if they are looking towards Chrome OS as another way to sell a few more Intel chips. So, in this case it seems Intel will have something to celebrate even if Moblin does not beat Chrome OS in the long run.

That said, Moblin is still in beta and Chrome OS is still a long time out, which means at this time both have a long way to go.

Read [Morning Star] Via [Engadget]