Google has announced a big change for Chromebooks that could help keep them running. Starting next year, Chromebooks will be able to receive automatic security updates for ten years after release.
Any Chromebook released in 2021 or later will receive ten years of automatic updates, allowing owners of older devices to reuse them.
The change comes after it was reported that schools are experiencing a growing number of abandoned and expired Chromebooks.
Chromebooks rely on the Chrome browser to function. Unlike desktop and laptop computers, Chromebooks won't work if the device can't run the browser.
Google currently guarantees eight years of automatic device updates. However, this period begins when the Chromebook is certified by the company, not when it actually reaches the owner.
Given the time it takes schools and businesses to purchase, receive, install and use new computers, these machines typically last only four to five years.
Earlier this year, the Education Foundation, an American public interest research organization, released a report titled “Chromebook Churn,” which sparked widespread discussion about the impact of ChromeOS on the educational environment.
The report estimates that doubling the lifespan of Chromebooks could save taxpayers $1.8 billion, a step in the right direction that could save customers money and reduce the cost of e-waste.
Google also noted in the press release that Chromebooks have improved security features, though they will no longer receive automatic updates.
The company said it also provides patch updates for Chromebooks, allowing technicians to apply software fixes without needing a physical USB drive. The company believes this will make software repairs 50% faster than before.
In the coming months, Google also plans to introduce additional features to improve energy efficiency, including new power saving modes and adaptive charging to keep batteries healthy.
Chromebooks first hit the market in 2012, at a price that helped boost the use of personal computing and made them suitable for the education sector, where schools provide students with simple and secure devices.
In addition, it represents a sustainable option thanks to the use of recycled materials, which reduces its environmental impact, and rehabilitation plans help it maintain its operations for as long as possible.