Update (August 26): Here’s an odd addition to this story. A Google spokesperson proactively reached out with this (surprising) statement: “We’re pleased to see Microsoft offer Chrome OS users a more optimized experience and embrace the open web. People love Chrome OS because it provides a speedy, secure, and simple computing experience and helps them stay connected while they work, study and stay entertained.” I subsequently asked whether Google officials were happy that Chromebook users running Office would no longer be able to work offline once Microsoft makes this change. No word back.
