Google it seems wants to break away from a simple image of a search engine giant. After Gmail, GoogleTalk and much talked about and controversial Google Earth, Google has already geared up to work on version of Ubuntu, called ‘Goobuntu’.

The industry experts are touting this move as Google’s bid to outrun Microsoft in its core business: Desktop software. The search engine giant is preparing big time to launch and distribute its version of highly popular Ubuntu Linux for desktop. The Google’s version, ‘Goobuntu’ is based on the Debian and Gnome desktop. Mark Shuttleworth, the South African Internet multimillionaire funds Ubuntu. His contribution to Linux has already added weight to the growing Linux community.

This desktop OS package has applications such as Google Talk, Google Desktop, Mozilla Firefox, the Trillian instant messenger client, RealPlayer, and Picasa photo management, which can together give a tough competition to Microsoft’s Windows packages. However, the system would still need a lot of work before it can catch up with the ultra-advanced features of Win-XP.

Though Google has confirmed it is working on Goobuntu, they decline to reveal any more details. They have already demonstrated an interest in building a presence on the desktop. However, it is quite possible that the initial version will be for internal use only, used widely on the company's own desktops, as an alternative to Microsoft Windows.