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What Is Chrome OS Flex?
Chrome OS Flex is the successor of Neverware’s CloudReady: a Chromium OS-based operating system that was created to bring Chrome OS to older computers. In 2020, Google acquired Neverware and gradually transformed CloudReady into Chome OS Flex. At this point in time, Chrome OS Flex is a stable OS available to everyone for free. Think of it as a mix of Windows and Linux, as it boasts a simple user interface, is backed by Google, and can even run Linux apps (in some cases.)
Chrome OS Flex Requirements
While almost anyone can use Chrome OS Flex, there are a few device requirements you should be aware of before proceeding.
4GB of RAM (or more) – while this is the recommended amount, you could try installing it on a device with 2GB of RAM. 16GB of free hard drive storage. USB stick – you’ll use it to install Chrome OS Flex on your PC in a similar fashion to installing Windows from a USB stick. An x64 Intel or AMD processor – machines with ARM processors can’t run Chrome OS Flex just yet.
If you’re unsure whether your device is a good fit, Google has published a list of Chrome OS Flex-certified devices. If minor issues are reported, you can still try it, since it’s possible to test the OS before replacing your OS with it. If you can’t find your device on the list, but it meets the hardware requirements outlined above, you may try installing it. Case in point, our test device was not on the list, but we managed to install and run the OS smoothly. Even if your device does not meet the hardware requirements, you can still try installing Chrome OS Flex, but bear in mind that some key functionalities may not work.
1. Flashing Chrome OS Flex on a USB Stick
Google has managed to make this process very easy. Get the process started by connecting a USB stick to your PC. If you recently purchased a Chrome OS laptop, make sure you know how to secure your Chromebook to keep its content private.
2. Booting and Installing Chrome OS Flex
The first thing to know is that booting into Chrome OS Flex won’t affect your Windows OS, as there’s an option to try the OS first when it’s still on the USB stick. To proceed, restart your device, then invoke the boot menu. You’ll need to quickly press the boot menu hotkey specific to your PC manufacturer before the Windows logo appears. Check online to see which one you need to use. Now, you can use Chrome OS Flex right from the USB stick and explore all of its features.
3. Switching to Chrome OS Flex
Once you’re ready to switch to Chrome OS Flex for good, make sure to back up your data, as your hard drive will get wiped. Note: you’ll need a high-performing USB stick for this. Although this method is doable, it is not recommended due to its unreliability. Have a more powerful Chromebook? Here’s how you can install Steam and take advantage of your game library on Chrome OS.
4. Installing Linux Apps (Optional)
In essence, Chrome OS Flex is basically a glorified browser, where almost every app is a browser shortcut. What’s more, it also offers partial Linux app support. Here’s how you can enable it. Note: “Linux Development Environment” is still an experimental feature on Chrome OS Flex. As a result, it may not work on some devices or models due to hardware limitations. But since you’ve come so far, there’s no harm in trying. Note: the Linux environment may not work properly when using Chrome OS Flex via a USB stick. For example, to install LibreOffice: Note: installation may take some time. VLC, for example, took 10 minutes, as Linux installs the required libraries too. Google Play Store stopped working on your Chromebook? Here’s what you can do to fix it and start downloading apps again. All screenshots by Mustafa Ashour.
