Google (NASDAQ: GOOGL) is reportedly working on a new OS that distances from both the Android and Chrome systems, according to Android Police. The code-sharing site, GitHub, posted the tentative name “Fuchsia“, along with a simple description: Pink + Purple = Fuchsia (a new Operating System).
The Linux Kernel wouldn’t be used to develop the project, and although some specialized media have speculated about its features, Google has not made any official announcements about its purposes or the devices that will handle. However, a Google employee confirmed the company is indeed working on a new open-source OS.
GitHub started to host a series of codes from the alleged “Fuchsia” project today and is currently updating every hour.
Google might be more interested in developing faster device connectivity
Android Police first reported on the OS’s existence and said this might be an attempt from Google to develop software aimed at The Internet of Things, rather than desktop functionality. The possible reason for the company to make “Fuchsia” could be that Linux-based OSes work mostly with computer involvement and Google is focusing more on internet connectivity, according to the fan site.
Linux steps aside, a new kernel is on the rise
“Fuchsia” is built on a Magenta Kernel, a new version of the LittleKernel project. This micro- coding was first designed to handling embedded systems: specialized computers that serve a clear function and doesn’t necessarily rely on an OS, such as the software used in digital watches.
The Magenta Kernel expands on this concept by including a capability-based security model and user modes. Google’s documentation throws some light on the matter as it describes the kernel’s primary target is modern phones and personal computers with fast processors and RAM memory.
GiftHub listed Google’s Senior Software Engineer, Swetland, along with Android TV researcher, Christopher Anderson, as part of the Fuchsia OS developing team.
The project doesn’t seek to replace former OSes, but to unify them
Other rumors surrounding the OS’s features have been circulating recently. Users from Hacker News speculated the system could upgrade augmented reality software, providing a better 3D environment that enhances walking around inside a structure, an aspect most GUIs finding hard to manage.
Besides, Fuchsia could serve as a unifier of the Android and Chrome OSes in the future, using a form of the Magenta Kernel as the base code for the next generation of Google launches, though this scenario is just a possibility, according to an editorial article by PC World’s Nick Mediati.
Although Google has not made any official statements, Brian Swetland did address some of the rumors about Fuchsia’s development during an IRC chat log.
“THE DESICION WAS MADE TO BUILD IT OPEN SOURCE, SO MIGHT AS WELL START FROM THE BEGGINING,” he said.
Source: Android Police