Google has recently acquired Cameyo, a company specializing in virtualization tools for running Windows applications on ChromeOS devices. The amount for which the acquisition occurred has not been disclosed. Cameyo’s CEO, Andrew Miller, and Google product leader Naveen Viswanatha stated in a blog post that this move will offer ChromeOS users improved access to Windows applications without the hassle of complicated installations or updates.
The goal behind Cameyo’s creation by co-founders Miller and CTO Eyal Dotan in 2018 was to develop a platform that could virtualize Windows applications for use on non-Windows devices, including web browsers. This involves virtualizing the application and delivering it from various cloud environments, such as AWS or on-premises data centers.
Last year, Google collaborated with Cameyo to introduce features like Windows app local file system integration and delivering virtual Windows apps as progressive web apps or apps hosted in hubs. This partnership set the stage for the recent acquisition. As Google aims to promote ChromeOS in business and education settings, Cameyo’s technology could provide a more appealing alternative to traditional Windows systems, especially with the growing shift towards cloud and web-based applications.
Cameyo’s impact is already evident, with numerous organizations, including school districts and financial institutions, relying on their software according to their website. The integration of Cameyo’s virtualization tools with ChromeOS is seen as mutually beneficial, with Google expanding the capabilities of their operating system and Cameyo reaching a broader user base through the acquisition.
Overall, the acquisition of Cameyo by Google signifies a strategic move towards enhancing the functionality of ChromeOS and meeting the evolving needs of businesses and educational institutions seeking more flexible options for running Windows applications on non-Windows devices. As technology continues to advance, virtualization tools like those offered by Cameyo are becoming increasingly vital for organizations looking to modernize their IT infrastructure while maximizing existing software investments.
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https://techcrunch.com/2024/06/05/google-acquires-cameyo-to-bring-windows-apps-to-chromeos/