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News Analysis: Apple's iPad might not face any worrisome competitors just yet, but as Google possibly prepares Chrome OS to take on Apple's tablet, it might be time for Apple to worry about the search giant's Web-based operating system. With an attractive feature set and ready access to Web applications, Chrome OS tablets could end up cutting into the growth of Apple iPad sales.
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1. It's Google
The search giant knows what it takes to be successful in the tech industry and it is a company that should be feared.

2. Multitasking
One of the major problems with Apple's iPad is its lack of multitasking.

3. Web-Based Means Something
Chrome OS affords several luxuries, including off-site storage, availability whenever (and wherever) a Web connection is available.

4. Chrome OS Is Built for Lightweight Design
Google's operating system is designed specifically for netbook users who require a lightweight operating system and basic functionality, like Web surfing and basic document editing.

5. Google Knows How to Make Touch Work
As the company's Android platform has shown, Google can be successful at delivering a touch experience to users.

6. Apple's iPad Isn't Groundbreaking
There are other tablets on the market that can boast several of the iPad's features. We also can't forget that the device lacks multitasking.

7. The Web Is the App Store
Users can surf to Pandora to listen to music and can go to Facebook to check in on friends. If they want sports updates, they can head over to ESPN. Apps wouldn't be as important on a Chrome OS tablet as they are on the iPad.

8. The Built-In Software Is Just Fine
Google Docs is widely recognized as the best Web-based Office alternative on the market. And based on experience with both products, Google's software is far better.

9. It Could Hit the Right Price Point
Google has specifically designed Chrome OS to be lightweight and affordable.

10. Ubiquity Is Key
Chrome OS has one advantage that might prove to be Apple's biggest obstacle: It can run on any vendor's computer. Apple's software will run only on the iPad. That's important. The more vendors that offer Chrome OS, the more likely the market will try it out. If users like what they see, they might just opt for a Chrome OS machine, rather than an iPad.

Relevant Links

• eWeek.com - 10 Reasons Why Chrome Tablets Pose a Threat to Apple iPad