Google Readying Touchscreen Devices Running Chrome OS

From DailyTech: Google is currently taking a two-pronged approach when it comes to operating systems: it has Android for tablets and smartphones and Chrome OS for notebooks/nettops. Several manufacturers are already offering Chromebooks that run the Google Chrome OS, particularly for the education market where a low price is very appealing.

Now, sources claiming to be familiar with Google's plans are reporting that the company has developed the first touchscreen laptops running Chrome OS. These machines will reportedly be on sale later this year and are the latest attempt by Google to go toe-to-toe with Microsoft in the computer industry.

Considering there are number of touchscreen [convertible] Android tablets on the market already, Google will be competing against its own operating system in some respects.

The unnamed sources made no mention of which hardware manufacturers the company is working with, but it’s safe to say that current partners like would Samsung, Acer, and HP, would be included.

Microsoft's latest operating system, Windows 8, is heavily focused on touch capability. Analysts say that one fourth of all Windows 8 laptops sold in the United States during January were equipped with touch screens. This could be another reason why Google is now adding touch capability to its Chrome OS.

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