Google Releases Chrome OS Flex for Macs and PCs; learn how to install

O Google released the stable version of Chrome OS Flex, operating system derived from Chrome OS designed for those who want to extend the life of older computers a little. With the new OS, it will be possible to turn obsolete Windows PCs and Macs into faster, more modern Chromebooks. Free, it comes with support for over 400 devices.

Announced in February by Google, Chrome OS Flex It's a good alternative for older computers that no longer receive software updates or simply can't run newer versions of macOS or Windows. According to the developer, it will have the same update cycle as the traditional Chrome OS, which makes it safe and current for use at home or in the office.

O Chrome OS Flex promises to bring more fluidity to models of various brands, including PCs from Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, LG and several other popular brands; models of MacBook dated 10 years are also eligible. One of the most interesting points is that all devices that run the Chrome OS Flex will be able to share almost all the same features as the full version of the system. With this, you can expect the same codebase, application sandbox, background updates, launch windows and boot time in a few seconds.

Because it is largely based on cloud services and brings great integration with Android, Chrome OS Flex It also supports the use of Chrome browser, Workspace suite of apps, customizable user interface, interaction with Android devices, cloud synchronization for settings and bookmarks, and also incorporates Google Assistant. On the other hand, it doesn't retain the keyboard shortcuts and interface of a Chromebook — instead, these commands are inherited from the previous operating system. The Flex version also doesn't support Android apps, let alone Google's official store, the Play Store.

Minimum requirements to run Chrome OS Flex

O Chrome OS Flex emerges as an evolution of CloudReady, an app that helped turn old Macs and PCs into working Chromebooks. Developed by neverware, the software became the Google after your purchase, in the year 2020. The CloudReady it was a solution focused on companies or schools that wanted to increase the useful life of their computers, a premise that should also be adopted by this new version launched by the Mountain View giant.

Despite there being a list with computers compatible with the Flex version, you can still install it on machines that have not been certified by Google, as long as they have at least, 4GB of RAM, 16GB of internal storage, a bootable USB port and a 86-bit x64 Intel or AMD processor — that is, no ARM yet. These are the minimum hardware requirements for the Chrome OS Flex:

• RAM memory: 4GB;
• Internal storage: 16 GB;
• Bootable from USB drive;
• BIOS: Full administrator access. You'll need to boot from the Chrome OS Flex USB installer and make some BIOS adjustments if you have problems;
• Processor and graphics: Components made before 2010 may result in a poor experience;
• Intel GMA 500, 600, 3600, and 3650 graphics cards do not meet Chrome OS Flex performance standards.

In the case of Macbooks, the Google also released a list of compatible models:

The new OS can be installed by extending the Chromebook Recovery Utility, via the Chrome browser. For enterprise users, you must pay for Chrome Enterprise or Education upgrades for support and fleet management. In the case of old customers using CloudReady, it is possible to migrate to the new experience whenever you want and without additional costs.

How to install ChromeOS Flex

To install the Chrome OS Flex, it is necessary, first of all, install the “Chromebook Recovery Utility” extension in Google Chrome or any other Chromium-based browser (Microsoft Edge, Opera, Vivaldi, etc.) on a PC, Mac or Chromebook. After adding the extension, just click wrench icon to open. A window will appear to “create recovery media for your Chromebook”. Click on “Let's Get Started”, and then click the “Select a template from the list” link.

Next, select “Google Chrome OS Flex” option in the “Select a manufacturer” menu. The same must be done next, in the “Select a product” menu. Then insert the pen driver, external HD or any other USB device with a minimum available storage of 8GB and wait while the process starts.

Finally, just install it on any PC, Mac or Chromebook. Remembering that the boot settings vary according to the manufacturer. Therefore, it is interesting to search for your model and follow the instructions provided by it.

See also:

Also widely used by those who use the computer for study and work, the Google Meet will now allow subscribers to Google One record calls.

Sources: The Verge, MacRumors.