05 May 2010 | Author: D. Warburton Search Copywriter

Google acquires 3D desktop software for Chrome OS

Adding to its ever-growing portfolio of acquisitions, Google has bought one of the most talked-about technology start-ups in Canada - makers of 3D desktop organising software that the Mountain View giant may be looking to utilise in its Chrome operating system.

BumpTop allows users to convert the traditional desktop into a 3D environment in which files, photos and documents can be stacked and sorted, rather than simply laid out side-by-side. The Vancouver Sun reports that the software was originally developed as part of student (later Bump Technologies Inc. CEO) Anand Agarawala's master's thesis at the University of Toronto, and aims to recreate the experience of stacking books and folders on a physical desktop.

Both companies are keeping tight-lipped about the deal, which is believed to have cost Google between $25 million and $35 million (£16.5m to £23m) according to Toronto financial company Wellington Financial LP. The BumpTop website now presents visitors with an announcement, informing long-time users: "Thanks again for all your support over the years. Despite our change in strategy, we remain as passionate as ever about helping shape the future of computing!"

As far as Google's side of the deal goes, a company spokesperson would only say: "We're happy to welcome the BumpTop team to Google, but we don't have any specific information to share."

However, industry analysts believe Google was eyeing the 3D desktop technology for use in its Chrome OS on a forthcoming tablet computer to rival Apple's hugely successful iPad.


Image: Wikipedia

Google unveiled a tentative design of a tablet computer in March that is believed to be a prime contender for its new open source operating system, expected to launch in the second half of the year. The BumpTop desktop software - which is generally viewed as being too cumbersome for mobile devices, but well suited to larger platforms - would be a good contender for inclusion.

Home | Careers | RSS | Contact Us | Newsletter

International sites: