Google Chrome OS Flex turns your old PC into a Chromebook

February 15, 2022 Luisa Rey

Google has suggested Chrome OS Flex, which is a modified version of Chrome OS that you can run on a Windows or Mac computer. The software can boot from a USB stick. Currently, Chrome OS Flex is available in early access.

Chrome OS Flex

At the end of 2020, Google acquired the company Neverware, which are the developers behind the CloudReady software. With CloudReady you could install Chrome OS on an old Windows PC and now it forms the basis for a new operating system called Chrome OS Flex, which Google announces on the Chrome Enterprise website.

Google is marketing Chrome OS Flex as a way to breathe new life into your old computers running Windows or macOS. A solution that should also prevent unnecessary e-waste, or electronic waste. Chrome OS Flex should primarily appeal to companies and schools that still have old computers on the side, but the software is also available for free to consumers.

Install on a USB stick

Google says it understands that anyone who has an old PC is not eager to just swap his current operating system for Chrome OS. That is why you will be able to put Chrome OS Flex on a USB stick that you can then use to work with Chrome OS from Windows or macOS. Google says it will guide you step-by-step with preparing the USB stick.

Google’s step-by-step plan

If you decide that Chrome OS Flex is not for you, you can easily format the USB stick, but there is also the option to install Chrome OS on your device. Chrome OS Flex is a full-fledged version of the operating system that comes with monthly updates and integration of the Play Store and Google Assistant.

Try Chrome OS Flex

If you want to get started with Chrome OS Flex, you can sign up for early access here. If you previously used CloudReady on your PC, you will simply receive the update to Chrome OS Flex as soon as the early access period is over. That will be the case in the coming months, but when exactly is not yet known.

Chrome OS Flex is not only a solution that can prevent e-waste, but it is a useful way for Google to introduce more people to Chrome OS. Are you going to test Chrome OS Flex? Let us know in the comments at the bottom of this article.

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