Google announces Chrome OS Flex, a new version of Chrome OS that focuses on enterprises and schools and is compatible on PC and Mac.
Chrome OS Flex gives old laptops and desktop PCs a second life. You can install the new version of Chrome OS on any Windows- or macOS-compatible device. According to Google, installation only takes a few minutes.
At first glance, there is no difference between Chrome OS on a Chromebook and Chrome OS Flex. Both have the same code base and also follow the same update cadence. Depending on the device you install Chrome OS Flex on, there is a chance that some specific features may not work. For example, consider the Google Assistant permanently ready (and listening) in the background or synchronization with Android phones.
Those who suddenly think their old PC or Mac can become an Android machine have to be disappointed for now. Today, Chrome OS Flex does not yet support Android apps unlike Chromebooks, but Google is leaving the door open for potential future integration.
Neverware acquisition
Google is not officially confirming it, but it seems that Chrome OS Flex is the result of its acquisition of Neverware in the late 2020s. The latter sold an application called CloudReady to convert old PCs to Chrome OS systems to give them a second life in enterprises and schools.
Those eager to try Chrome OS Flex for themselves can visit the Chrome Enterprise website. Keep in mind, though, that this is an early version and potentially still contains a lot of bugs. Doubting to install it directly on your PC or Mac? You can install a version on a USB stick to get a taste already.