Tags : cloud computing, computers, desktop, Internet
The Cloud vs. The Desktop: An Irrelevant Argument
These days, tech pundits and futurists can’t go a week without pontificating on the future of computing, wondering (and arguing) whether the computer will be merely a tool to access “the cloud” or as an application set. Even the most inconsequential software release (or failure) sparks this argument – the most recent example is the release of the Opera browser’s repackaging of a personal webserver.
Companies and individuals alike have been heralding the death of the computer as we know if for years, claiming all applications, data, and other innovations will live in a decentralized fashion across distributed networks - Google’s office suite offerings are an example of this. Everything from instant messaging clients to word processors, video editors to photograph storage, and email to computer programming tools can be found as browser-based applications. But just because they exist doesn’t mean they should, as not everything needs to be achieved inside the browser.
Some activities, such as photo or video editing, are best left to desktop tools that aren’t reliant on crude Javascript or Flash plugins, and still others have no reason to exist “in the cloud”. The essential test is this: does existing in the cloud add value to the tool, allowing easier multi-computer interaction? Or maybe it’s a service that allows users to connect and interact with each other?
If it doesn’t pass these tests, the application/tool doesn’t need to be cloud-oriented. It is precisely for this reason that the computer will never be just a gateway to the ‘net – besides the obvious hardware and software complications with “the browser is the future operating system” arguments. With the ridiculously marketed release of Opera’s twenty-year-old technology, a claim of “the desktop isn’t dead, and we’re the real future!” rung out through some circles… this isn’t the answer either.
These arguments are irrelevant, useless, and ultimately nothing more than a well marketed fist-fight. Computing’s future is likely a combination of desktop and cloud, making intelligent choices between the two based on the needs and value of any given application. The real issue is going to be the interoperability and real-world use/abilities of the cloud – a highly relevant and critical issue only just achieving any semblance of discussion.
Kyle Brady is a contributing columnist for the Inquisitr, an entrepreneur, and has a future in science fiction. He can be found at his blog, via email, or on Twitter.
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