For your computers and laptops that are sitting in the corner of the house and no longer receiving updates, a new hope has appeared: ChromeOS Flex. Deciding to re-release CloudReady in December 2020, Google implemented this decision with the release of ChromeOS in February 2022. The stable version of the operating system, ChromeOS Flex, has also been released.
Thanks to this free-to-download operating system, macOS and Windows computers and laptops that no longer receive software updates can be turned into Chromebooks. Devices using ChormeOS Flex will share the same code base and the same features for apps. Background system updates or read-only operating systems will be the same.
Legacy devices meet the common denominator
Features that both Mac and Windows devices will share in common include the Chrome browser, user interface, cross-device integration with Android, cloud sync, and Google Assistant. At the same time, devices with this operating system will have Family Connection, Smart Lock, Instant Wireless Connection Sharing and Share with Nearby features. Still, ChromeOS Flex has no Android apps or Play Store. However, Linux support continues.
ChromeOS Flex can be downloaded from the internet or via a USB device. So you can run the operating system directly and test it. Google’s operating system runs on Intel or AMD x86 processors but lacks ARM support.
Will work even on 10 year old devices
Google stated that over 400 devices are currently using this operating system and that they expect ChromeOS Flex to be compatible with even 10-year-old devices. This certification means that audio inputs, display systems, network systems, components such as USB and webcam will work.
Google ChromeOS Flex system requirements:
- Architecture: Intel or AMD x86-64 bit compatible
- RAM: 4GB
- Storage Space: 16GB
- Bootability from USB device
- BIOS: Full administrator access
- Processor and Graphics: Parts manufactured before 2010 may experience poor performance.
Note: Intel GMA 500, 600, 3600, and 3650 graphics hardware do not meet the performance standards of ChromeOS Flex.
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