Google Gears up for off-line browser apps
As a closet fan of all that is ‘Google’, I was wondering when I should make the final step in my transition from Bloglines to Google Reader. I’ve been using both for some time now, which is bit of a pain when I have to add and categorise a new feed since I end up replicating the process twice. However, I think the recent announcement about Google Gears is the tipping point I needed. So, sadly, it’s goodbye to Bloglines, but loyalty only goes so far.
Basically, Gears is a browser add-on that enables web-based applications to run locally whilst off-line. The product is in Beta at the moment, and only supports the Google Reader (RSS feed aggregator). However, we can expect to see support for Google Docs & Spreadsheets, Google Mail, Google Blogger, and in fact any of their applications where there is value to be gained by working off-line and on-line.
Looks like another killer app to me!
5. June 2007 at 10:20 pm :
Good to hear you’ve given up on Bloglines, Steve - that product hasn’t changed much for years, and is lagging behind the leaders.
Gears is, I think, going to be massive, especially now others are getting in on the act already - see http://lgnewmedia.net/blog/2007/06/05/gearing-up/.
6. June 2007 at 8:23 am :
Thanks Dave - looks like this is taking off quicker than I thought. Having ability to use Google docs and spreadsheets in off-line or on-line mode is becoming a more compelling alternative to Microsoft’s expensive and bloated Office products. Mr Gates et al must be getting worried!
8. January 2008 at 3:41 pm :
very interesting.
i’m adding in RSS Reader