Google is reportedly merging ChromeOS into Android: What it could mean for laptops

Google’s ChromeOS is an operating system synonymous with affordable, student-oriented laptops that make for some great value-for-money machines for those who need portable, light computing. However, ChromeOS never quite had the versatility of macOS and Windows, both operating systems which also power laptops.

Now, Google may be fixing that by reportedly merging ChromeOS with the most versatile operating system of all – Android. Here’s everything known about this change, and how it could change the laptop space forever.

ChromeOS merging with Android: What it means

Per an Android Authority report, Google is planning on merging ChromeOS and Android into a unified operating system. This actually follows up to another change from earlier this year in June 2024, when Google had announced that ChromeOS would start using parts of the Android tech stack.

ALSO READ: 5 best Chromebooks to buy in India in 2024

With both ChromeOS and Android being developed by Google for years, it makes sense that the parent company would want both segments to merge into one. This would open the doors to offering a more seamless connected experience, like you see with the Apple ecosystem across macOS, iOS, iPadOS, etc.

We assume this would also make updates and development easier for Google on the backend, as the development could now be focused on one common operating system instead of two, and new features and security updates should be easier to cook.

Could the move finally bring us true Android laptops?

ChromeOS’ shift to Android could finally mean we get true, mainstream laptops running Android, or at least a modified, more powerful version of it. This could make several multi-tasking aspects easier, like quickly sharing files wirelessly between am Android phone and a laptop.

The move would also bring Android’s large library of apps and games to these Chromebook-successor laptops, which could open a whole new world of possibilities.

From enjoying BGMI on the big screen, to using an Android-style photo gallery app with the convenience of a laptop form factor, this could change a lot of aspects around how we use our laptops every day.