Google’s Chrome OS is a rival to Microsoft’s Windows 7 package.

New developments this month in the IT sector include the launch of Google Chrome OS – a rival to Microsoft Office, which has begun to take pre-orders for its Windows 7 system, the cheapest version of its software yet.

Google Chrome OS follows the launch of the Google Chrome web browser in October 2008, which more than 30 million people already use regularly. The OS version is initially targeted at netbooks, and in 2010 Google will open-source its code for everyone.

The organisation said: “Speed, simplicity and security are the key aspects of Google Chrome OS. We’re designing the OS to be fast and lightweight, to start up and get you onto the web in a few seconds. The user interface is minimal to stay out of your way, and most of the user experience takes place on the web.

“And, as we did for the Google Chrome browser, we are going back to the basics and completely redesigning the underlying security architecture of the OS so that users don’t have to deal with viruses, malware and security updates. It should just work.”

Pre-ordering for the new Windows 7 – which replaces the eight-year-old systems of Windows XP and Vista – began yesterday (15 July). Benefits of the new system include the ability to watch and record TV on a PC, faster start-up and shutdown, and quick hardware and network setup.

Windows 7 will go on sale on 22 October, and it is currently being sold at some outlets on a pre-order basis for just £44.99 for the Home Premium E version.

The two operating systems will rival each other for users. However, as Microsoft reportedly has a current OS market share of around 90% and Google Chrome OS is currently only available for netbooks, it may take time before the industry becomes truly competitive.