Why Google Gears ?

Andy asks the question : Why google gears ?

Yes with 3G cards and Wifi do we need an offline option. Probably not. (I could potentially use it in planes - but my expectation is that by the time applications comply with an offline option airlines will figure out a better business model around selling internet on the plane. We did have a failed first step).

Here is why IMHO Google does gears
1. Google does stuff just because they are cool so ROI is not necessary when they start working on it. (Example Google Sets)

2. From a business perspective. Google needs to have an offline option to compete with Flash and Java webstart to complete its SaaS stack of GWT , Google Apps , MashupEditor etc.
Google is in the business of SaaS Development for the Enterprise (look at its recent acqusitions like postini). It is creating an alternative to Java , .NET , FLASH etc and make no mistake about it. Yes their revenue now comes from Advertising but I would be surprised to see if it is the same 5-6 years down the road.

So where is the money going to come from for Google after 5-6 years. --> From using there grid. From using there SaaS platform. You might end up paying on a subscription based model OR pay via getting targetted ads served to you.