Google is shaking up the virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) market by acquiring Cameyo, a company that streams applications to browsers, particularly Chromebooks. This move puts Google in direct competition with industry giants like Citrix and VMware. Cameyo’s technology allows users to access legacy applications without installing them on their device, a feature traditionally provided by VDI solutions.
While Google’s acquisition of Cameyo is a strategic one, it’s worth noting that Citrix and VMware already offer clients for streaming applications and virtual desktops to browsers, including Chrome OS. Google’s head of ChromeOS product management, Naveen Viswanatha, highlighted the partnership between Google and Cameyo in delivering a seamless virtual app delivery experience on ChromeOS.
The timing of Google’s entry into the virtualized applications market couldn’t be better, as recent changes in licensing by Citrix have left organizations looking for alternative solutions. With Citrix’s future operating model under its new owner, private equity firm KKR, many may turn to Google for virtual app delivery.
This acquisition also sheds light on Google’s efforts in the enterprise market, where its Chromebook business has struggled to make a significant impact. Despite offerings like Chrome Enterprise and Chrome Business Premium, Google has yet to fully capture the attention of enterprise buyers. The addition of Cameyo’s expertise to Google’s portfolio signals a renewed focus on delivering an optimized experience for virtualized applications, potentially attracting more enterprise customers.
In summary, Google’s acquisition of Cameyo marks a significant step in expanding its presence in the VDI market and catering to the needs of enterprise customers. By leveraging Cameyo’s technology and expertise, Google aims to position itself as a competitive player in the virtual app delivery space, challenging established vendors like Citrix and VMware. With a focus on optimizing the user experience and providing secure application access, Google is set to shake up the VDI market and make a stronger push into the enterprise segment.
Article Source
https://www.theregister.com/AMP/2024/06/06/google_acquires_cameyo_vdi_challenge/