Why Chrome?

Why Chrome Won’t Crash Windows

There has been considerable attention this past week about Google’s new web browser – Chrome.  I have to admit, I am a bit confused by this move by Google.  Google’s claim is that they are introducing their own browser in an attempt to defend itself from Microsoft possibly making changes to the IE platform.  I’m not sure I buy that rationale.  Google already has a hedge against Microsoft…the opensource FIrefox browser.  So, my question is why would Google develop its own brower, rather than enhancing Firefox.  One answer may be becuase they can.  Google has lots of money and lots of brainpower and they can afford to release small pilot projects without a complete understanding of why they are doing so.  Another reason may be more nefarious – becuase they want greater control over online advertising.   A Google browser could either a) provide another channel for advertising outreach or b) could be optimized to enhance Google’s existing advertising model.  I suspect the truth is somehow a combination of both factors.  If someone has a better explanation, though, I’d love to hear it.