Everex is launching its gPC “Google PC” today at Wal-Mart stores for the low price of $200. The gPC runs off of a mix of Ubuntu Linux, Google Applications and Open Source software like OpenOffice to offer fully functional applications at an affordable price.
The gPC runs off a 1.5GHz Via C7-D processor, Via UniChrome Pro IGP graphics core, and offers 512MB of memory, an 80GB hard drive and a DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive.
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But 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.
Move over Microsoft, here comes something meatier.
The world has been waiting for a Google PC offering, possibly a free one with search advertising offsetting the price, but for $200, this PC is more or less free and delivers some very useful tools to the masses, who may not usually download such applications.
