Chrome OS is coming to PC and Mac devices for the first time after Google launched a new platform, hoping to expand the reach of its software to more devices. Designed to run on older machines, the new Chrome OS Flex is designed to give businesses and schools more flexibility in software choice.
The “cloud-first” software looks similar to the equivalent software already seen on Chromebook devices, offering a simplified way to access Google Workspace tools such as Gmail, Meet, Google Docs, and thousands of apps from the Play Store program.
Chrome OS
“End-user computing is complex. For businesses and schools, it’s even more complex,” Thomas Riedl, director of Google Cloud products, enterprise and education, wrote in a blog post announcing the news. “Slow boot times, intrusive updates, security plug-ins, and heavy management of older devices take up valuable time from employees, students, and IT.” “Chrome OS Flex modernizes the devices you already own, allowing you to experience the benefits of Chrome OS.”
Google says that Chrome OS Flex “launches in seconds,” meaning your device doesn’t have to wait long to get ready, and system updates download in the background.
Admins can install Chrome OS Flex on business or school devices via USB or network for rapid deployment, download user profiles via the cloud, and automatically sync their settings, policies and bookmarks.
Chrome OS Flex will also benefit from Google’s regular security updates for the latest threats, and Google also points out that because of its less demanding specs, using Chrome OS Flex means you can keep your existing device for longer, helping reduce electronic Rubbish.
The launch was aided by Google’s 2020 acquisition of Neverware, whose Chromium-based CloudReady operating system helps businesses around the world switch to the company’s software, Riedl noted.
Google says Chrome OS Flex isn’t a finished product yet, but users can now try the new software for free ahead of a wider release later this year.
>>>>>>>>>>Google battery