What is Chrome OS and how do I install it?

Chrome OS has established itself as a viable alternative to Windows and macOS, particularly at the entry-level. Google is now allowing everyone to install Chrome OS on their PCs and Macs. Chrome OS Flex is a Windows and Mac operating system that allows users to try out Chrome OS or even install it on their PCs.

Brief Overview

Chrome OS Flex is a new Chrome OS version. Neverware, the firm that created CloudReady, was purchased by Google in 2020. CloudReady is a Chromium OS-based operating system that transforms any computer into a Chrome OS device. Google has integrated CloudReady into its Chrome OS software package, making Chrome OS Flex effectively the next generation of CloudReady.

As a result, Chrome OS Flex is poised to become the preferred method of installing Chrome OS on a PC or Mac. Because it’s designed for easy mass deployment and control, Google is targeting companies and schools with this version. Regardless, for many individuals, it’s still a terrific method to obtain Chrome OS on their existing devices.

Additionally, Chrome OS Flex is available for Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux. According to Google, most gadgets released in the previous 10 years or more should be ok and able to carry out everyday tasks; running apps such as photo finder. While Google only guarantees the operating system’s operation on authorized models, Chrome OS Flex can be installed on other devices. The following are the minimum system requirements for installing Google Chrome OS Flex.

• x86–64-bit Intel or AMD compatible device
• 16 GB internal storage, 4 GB RAM
• BIOS with full administrator access that can be booted from a USB device

Google warns that CPUs and graphics cards dated before 2010 may cause problems. Additionally, the graphics technology in the Intel GMA 500, 600, 3600, and 3650 does not match Chrome OS Flex performance specifications.

How To Install Chrome OS

To install Chrome OS Flex, you’ll need a USB drive with at least 8GB of storage space to build a bootable device. Some Sandisk drives may not function properly. You’ll also need Google Chrome installed on a Chrome OS, Windows, or Mac computer to make the bootable. Follow the instructions below.

• Open your Chrome browser and go to the Chrome Web Store to download the Chromebook Recovery Utility.
• Select Manage extensions from the Extensions button in the upper right corner.
• Ensure that the toggle on the Chromebook Recovery Utility card is switched on, i.e. to the right.
• Click the Chrome Recovery Utility extension under the Extensions icon to open it. To begin, click the Get started button.
• Select a model from a list using the Select a model from a list option.
• Scroll down to Google Chrome OS Flex and pick it under Select a manufacturer. To locate Chrome OS Flex, go to Select a product and scroll down (Developer-Unstable). Select it with a click and then continue.
• When asked, insert your USB drive.
• From the selection menu, choose the USB drive. Continue by pressing the Enter key.
• Now press the Create button.
• When Chrome Recovery Utility indicates your recovery media is ready, remove the USB drive from the device.

While the device is turned off, insert the USB drive into the machine you wish to install Chrome OS Flex on. To enter the boot menu, turn on the machine by pushing the power button and immediately start tapping the boot key. The boot key on a PC is often F1, F2, F9, F12, Delete, or Esc. It’s the Option key on a Mac.

Boot into the disc by selecting the bootable USB installer from the list as the boot device. To set up Chrome OS Flex, complete the remaining steps on the screen. However, you may use Chrome OS Flex directly from the USB device without having to install anything.