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Google rolls out ChromeOS Flex as an enterprise option to replace operating systems on old ones Macs and PCs, allowing users to turn their legacy hardware into Chromebooks.
As computers get older, many issues can arise that affect performance and stability. This usually leads companies to completely replace a computer rather than suffer from poor performance.
With ChromeOS Flex, Google hopes to help businesses keep older computers running for longer. The lightweight operating system is designed to work well on older hardware to extend the life of a product, which can lead to less e-waste.
The operating system can be quickly deployed via a USB stick or via a network connection. Systems running ChromeOS Flex can be managed through a Chrome Enterprise Upgrade using the Google Admin Console.
Google has approved 295 devices so far for ChromeOS Flex. However, it can be installed on other hardware, but uncertified hardware may experience performance issues.
The officially supported Macs include:
| Model Name | Current status | End of support |
|---|---|---|
| 21.5-inch iMac (2010) | Certified | 2024 |
| 21.5-inch iMac (2011) | Minor issues expected | 2024 |
| Mac Mini (2014) | Certified | 2026 |
| MacBook (2010) | Minor issues expected | 2023 |
| MacBook Air (2012) | Certified | 2025 |
| MacBook Air (2014) | Certified | 2026 |
| MacBook Air (2015/2017) | Certified | 2027 |
| 13-inch MacBook Pro (2012/2013) | Certified | 2025 |
| 15-inch MacBook Pro (2013/2014) | Certified | 2025 |
Google notes that the webcam is not functional for the MacBook Air (2014) or MacBook Air (2015/2017) models.
Users can install ChromeOS Flex and replace the original operating system, but it is also possible to partition the hard drive and install it as a separate operating system. This is a system intended for deployment on legacy enterprise hardware and is only available through: sign up for early access, for now.