Google to Offer OS Upgrades for Older PCs Post-Windows 10 Support Cutoff
Google’s Plan to Enable OS Upgrades for Older PCs
Google has announced that it will allow businesses to install an auto-updating version of the Chrome operating system to Windows devices after Microsoft ends support for Windows 10. The move aims to prevent millions of PCs from becoming obsolete and ending up in landfills, as parent company Alphabet revealed on Wednesday.
Benefits of ChromeOS Flex
ChromeOS Flex, the auto-updating version, will continue to receive regular security updates and include features like data encryption. This will enable users to keep using their Windows 10 systems even after Microsoft ends its support next year.
Effects of Windows 10 Support Termination
Microsoft’s decision to terminate Windows 10 support by October 2025 could lead to around 240 million PCs being discarded, according to a report from Canalys Research. Many PCs with Windows 10, however, could still remain functional for years after the end of OS support.
ChromeOS Market Share and Challenges
ChromeOS currently holds a 1.8% share of the worldwide desktop OS market, significantly lower than Windows’ approximately 73% share. This is mainly due to ChromeOS’ struggle with wider adaptability owing to its incompatibility with legacy Windows applications and productivity suites used by businesses.
Google’s Solution to Compatibility Issues
Google has addressed the compatibility issue by allowing ChromeOS users to stream legacy Windows and productivity applications. This innovation aims to deliver these applications to devices by running them on a data center, ultimately enhancing the adaptability of ChromeOS.
(Article Condensed)
