Today, Google released their Web Store for Google Chrome. Do you see that? Web apps! This ain’t your grandad’s apps. These are fancy-schmancy apps on the web FROM THE FUTURE.
Okay, I’m being a bit of a smart-ass, but the buzz around this web store is pretty crazy. In plain terms, the “Apps” you’re installing are pretty much bookmarks to websites. Yes, the web store provides a unified way to pay for access. Yes, these apps can take advantage of the latest and greatest in web standards to provide native-like performance. However, they are essentially just bookmarks to web sites when all is said and done.
I’m not saying that web apps are bad. In fact, I use quite a few in my daily life. My main problem lies solely with Google’s marketing of the concept. In my mind, they’re making out these “Apps” to be something shiny and new. In reality, they’re just putting an icon on your homepage. Is that what one would call a revolution?
In sum, Google has allowed web developers an easier way to reach potential users, and to sell their products. Outside of that, Google is spending their time pointing at the wheel some other guy made, and claiming they re-invented it.
What do you think? Is Google blowing hot air up our skirts? Let me know what you think by commenting on this post.
