Update: I sent invites to the first 10 people to comment. However, anyone can now download the pre-beta for Jolicloud here. Enjoy!
There has been much attention given to Google Chromium OS over the last few weeks (here at OnSoftware as much as anywhere else). This is hardly surprising, given that a lot of netbook owners share the dream of an ultra light, fast-booting OS targeted at the web.
As we've seen from trying Chromium OS out, Google have a long way to go before they've got anything that vaguely resembles a functioning operating system. So while you wait for a workable beta (hopefully some time next year) - why not try the best alternative on the market?

Jolicloud is a light, fast web-focused Linux distro based on Ubuntu. It has a fairly smart one-click-to-install user interface, fast boot times and relatively low power consumption. It feels more 'built for netbooks' than Windows 7 and is simple enough for even the most novice of users. We've been testing Jolicloud for a few months now and we really like it.
Unlike Chromium OS, Jolicloud lets more advanced users do what they want, so key elements of the Gnome/Linux OS are still accessible via the terminal. Another big criticism of Google's OS is its insistence on being connected to the Internet all the time. Jolicloud, meanwhile, supports more local storage options and lets you install VLC Player along with other powerful offline apps.

We've got 10 invites for the Jolicloud alpha, so to get your hands on this cool little OS, simply leave a comment below telling us what you're planning to do with your smart new Jolicloud-powered netbook.

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I plan to get the most out of my battery and atom processor using the slim-lined yet aesthetically pleasing Jolicloud. I have hungered for something with a small footprint, but with functionality without sucking the life out of my battery. I truly believe that Jolicloud is the answer. I have been using 2c for sometime now and Im very interested in taking 3alpha for a spin.
I also plan to test out the battery and put it to its full potential. It will be a good comparison to the NetBooks from my school. I have become very intrigued by the way these netbooks operate. Having such a small pc, yet it is all packed into one tiny thing. This Jolicloud seems like a good new experiment to play with and see what its got! Also like stated in the article above, it seems like it will be a good time being able to have though extra options, or being able to go deeper into the system.
JoliCloud is a very promising web OS for netbooks, and I intend to get an invite, so I can run it and offer a first impression to the public. Actually I was working on a design for a netbook OS, but this is the best I've seen. Of course, I'll then use it and test it, and I've got a feeling this is going to be an exciting experience. This seriously whacks Google Chrome, too. Also, this version of Linux intrigues me. This might be an opponent of Ubuntu.
I'd love to try out Jolicloud on a more dated Toshiba laptop to see just how compatible and fast it is.
I am making the switch from running windows on my netbook, to something more streamlined that doesn't take 5 minutes to get to the desktop. I have avoided Linux for many years, but these new netbook versions look special. Jolicloud looks the most fully functionable, so it would be great to have a play (and for a toe dip into Linux). I don't need all the gubbins windows throws in on a netbook, I just want to get on the internet, quick!
Hello im running windows 7 and would like to try out Jolicloud to see if it has better powery consumption, and im interested in trying new Operating Systems.
I have looked at reviews of many netbook linux distributions and Jolicloud gets the strongest recommendations. I would love to install on my eee 1005HA! (now has XP) I have been a linux user for 4 years and love the philosophy/innovation from open source!
I have had the opportunity to try out another linux-based software (maemo on nokia's latest) and was very impressed with it. I'm quite eager to find out if the look and feel of this little OS will provide a similar experience.
Hello! i would be very very interested in an invite! I'we been waiting for Google Cromium OS now for a while, but today i discovered something new, even better, Jolicloud! Please, take me under consideration :) With love, from Sweden. Patrik J
I just want test this OS, it looks cool but I have to try before I say something.
Looking up for an alternate OS for my outdated PC. Kinldy send me an invite.
I have had personal and prolonged experience with all of the MS offerings from Windows 95 including several Windows 7 applications. I spend several hours daily between my desktop and notebook. I'm on the verge of leaving MS in search of something that is both resource and user friendly. The sheer variety of Linux distros available leaves me at a loss. I want an o.s. that doesn't require gig-anything in order to show its capabilities. Google seems to be dragging its feet and losing its sense of direction. Jolicloud is available now, complete and ready to use. I'd love to be able to check it out. I'm 62 and there are many senior geeks in similar personal searches.
I just like new technology. I would like to take Jolicloud to school with me in the fall.