I think the time is right for a third "PC" OS to get into the mainstream market. Android in the mobile space has proven that a linux OS tweaked for dummies can be highly successful. It would be a doddle to make a PC OS for dummies based around one of the linux distros. All the basics are there in the linux playground: open office, thunderbird, firefox, for 90% of people that's all they need in a PC.
All you need is an attractive package and a catchy name. There's nothing written in stone that says MS must forever be the sole provider of OSs to the mass market non-Apple PC ecosystem. With the right timing, the right product and some good fortune a new OS could come in and secure 20-30% of the OS market on a long term basis.
Not sure Google being that player would be a good thing though. But who else is there realistically who can put something out there akin to Android in the mobile arena?
“The fundamental cause of the trouble is that in the modern world the stupid are cocksure while the intelligent are full of doubt.” - Bertrand Russell
"When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace."
Jimi Hendrix
