My Vision for the Future of Chrome OS
Artem Pozharov
In the future, I envision Chrome OS as an Android-based distribution, adapted to meet the needs of laptop and desktop users. Here is how I imagine its architecture and functionality.
Android Distribution with a Custom Launcher
Firstly, Chrome OS will be based on Android, which will allow leveraging all the capabilities of this platform without the need for virtualization. This means that Android applications will run directly and work as seamlessly as they do on Android smartphones. A custom launcher, adapted for desktops, will provide a convenient interface for multi-window operation with a keyboard and mouse.
Lightweight Containers for the Chrome Browser
The Chrome browser, which is a GNU/Linux version, will be integrated into the system through a lightweight custom GNU/Linux container. This approach will allow leveraging the benefits of containerization for browser isolation, ensuring high performance and security.
It is important to note that multiple containers may be used if different versions of the Chrome browser are installed, such as Beta, Dev, Stable, and Canary. Each container will be isolated, ensuring the independence and security of each browser version.
Container Integration with Android
For the full functionality of the Chrome browser, deep integration of the container with Android system components will be required:
• Access to Camera and Microphone: For online conferences and video calls, the browser will need access to input devices such as the camera and microphone. This can be implemented through specific APIs and security settings that ensure access control.
• File System: For downloading and uploading files, the browser will need access to the Android file system. This can be achieved through bridges and virtual file systems that provide secure and convenient access to the necessary directories.
• Data Exchange Between Applications: For interaction with other Android applications and services, such as email clients or cloud storage, the container will need support for inter-application communication through standard Android interfaces.
Refactoring the System Interface
The concept of the Chrome OS desktop will not change fundamentally, but a refactoring will likely occur, removing remnants of the Chrome browser from the system interface. Currently, ash-chrome is used for the system interface and lacros-chrome for the standalone browser in a container. This refactoring will improve performance and simplify system maintenance.
No Need for Terminal and Package Manager
Since the containers will be exclusively for the Chrome browser, there will be no need for access to the terminal or package manager. This will simplify the architecture and reduce security risks, as users will not be able to execute commands like sudo rm -rf /*.
Integration with Android System Components
Chrome OS will use Android system components and frameworks, improving performance and simplifying the adoption of new technologies. This will allow easy integration of modern technologies related to machine learning and artificial intelligence, as well as tighter integration with the Google device ecosystem.
Update and Security Management
Updates for the Chrome browser and other system components will be managed through standard Android update mechanisms. This will ensure the software remains up-to-date and secure, which is particularly important for corporate users and educational institutions.
User Interface and Experience
The user interface will remain intuitive and familiar to Chrome OS users. The custom launcher will be adapted for working with a keyboard and mouse, providing a convenient and productive experience. Users will easily be able to launch and switch between Android applications and the Chrome browser.
Examples and Analogues
A similar approach is already used in projects like Winlator, which allows running Wine inside a Linux container on Android. Wine is a compatibility layer that enables Windows applications to run on Unix-like operating systems. This example shows that such integration is possible and successful.
Conclusion
In the future, Chrome OS will be based on Android, retaining the key advantages and functionality familiar to users. Lightweight containers for the Chrome browser and native support for Android applications will make the system more productive, secure, and convenient. This vision combines the best features of both platforms, providing users with a seamless and efficient working experience.