Google is allowing companies to automatically install updated versions of ChromeOS on computers that aren't eligible for the Windows 11 upgrade, which could prevent millions of computers from ending up in landfills when Microsoft ends support for Windows 10 next year.
ChromeOS Flex continues to receive regular security updates and features such as data encryption so users can continue using the devices, the company said.
Microsoft has announced that support for Windows 10 will end on October 14, 2025. After this date, regular security updates, bug fixes, or technical support will no longer be provided and customers will be forced to upgrade to Windows 11 or explore other options.
A report published by Canalys Research indicates that the end of support for Windows 10 could send about 240 million computers to landfills, where devices without security updates may be in lower demand.
Many Windows 10 computers may continue to work for years after support for the operating system ends.
ChromeOS is significantly less popular than other operating systems, accounting for 1.8% of the global desktop operating system market as of January 2024.
According to research firm Statcounter, this percentage is very low compared to Windows' share of about 73%.
Google's operating system has been difficult to adapt due to its incompatibility with older versions of Windows applications and productivity suites used by businesses.
Google says ChromeOS allows users to stream legacy Windows apps and productivity apps and makes it easier for them to access devices by running apps in data centers.
Google cites several reasons why users should consider upgrading from macOS or Windows to ChromeOS Flex, including its ability to extend the life of existing devices, its power efficiency, and its flexibility.
“If you use Chrome or have Google Workspace, ChromeOS Flex is a natural fit for your business,” Google said.
The company claims that ChromeOS Flex is approximately 19% more power efficient than Windows and that browsing on ChromeOS Flex is easier than browsing on Windows.