Google Inc. unveiled a laptop that runs its Chrome operating system, providing an alternative to computer software from Microsoft Corp. and Apple Inc.

The unbranded device boasts a 12.1-inch screen and includes mobile-Internet connection options from Verizon Wireless, Mountain View, California-based Google said during a conference and on a blog today. The Chrome computer is available for tests by some consumers and businesses, Google said.

By designing a browser-based operating system to power netbooks and laptops, Google poses a challenge to Microsoft’s Windows, the market leader, and Apple’s Macintosh computer operating system. Chrome notebooks will be available from Samsung Electronics Co. and Acer Inc. in the first half of 2011.

“With Chrome OS we have the development of a viable, third choice in real operating systems,” Chief Executive Officer Eric Schmidt said at the event.

Companies and agencies including Virgin America Inc. and the U.S. Department of Defense will test the new laptops, Google said. Windows, Microsoft’s flagship product, runs about 90 percent of the world’s personal computers.

Schmidt said in July Google’s operating software will eventually be on millions of personal computers. The laptop has Wi-Fi and 3G Internet connectivity provided by Verizon Wireless, the mobile phone company owned by Verizon Communications Inc. and Vodafone Group Plc, Google said.

Chrome Upgrades

It takes 7 seconds to boot up Chrome OS and 3 seconds to log in, Google has said. Chrome OS will use the Chrome browser that Google made available last year. Google also said it improved browser speed, simplicity and security, and that its user base has grown this year to 120 million from 40 million.

The company also said today that there are 500 applications in its Chrome Web store, which opens today and was announced in May. Amazon.com Inc.’s Kindle books can be purchased and read within the browser’s store. National Public Radio also has an app in the store.

Source:Bloomberg