Internet Appliances Emerge Without Windows OS

Imagine a computer without a Windows operating system (OS), and you either think of the new Linux or something totally random built in some far-away, little-seen garage or basement.

The gauntlet has been thrown down, and in an effort to take away market share from Microsoft, other well-known computer vendors, including Gateway [1], Dell [2] and Compaq [3], are reportedly beginning to build "appliances" that will deliver the Internet without relying on the Windows operating system.

Think of the possibilities in terms of logistics and longevity in not relying on a behind-the-scenes OS. They also may have something as simple as a fast "on" switch compared to the time it normally takes to boot-up a computer.

Prices could dramatically drop to something as low as $199 to possibly nothing if positioned with an online service contract.