Monday, April 27, 2026, 2:00 p.m
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For millions of usethe near end of support for Windows 10 brings an awkward choice. Basically, you either invest in one computer new or you risk being left with a vulnerable system.
In this context, Google proposes a variant that completely changes direction. Instead of upgrading hardware, you can replace the operating system and still use the same PC. The solution is called ChromeOS Flex and is designed specifically for older devices that no longer meet modern requirements or are not compatible with Windows 11.
Simple on paper, more complicated in reality
The idea is straightforward: you install the new system and convert one laptop slow into a fast and safe one. To make the process accessible, Google collaborated with Back Market and prepared an installation kit that includes a USB stick and step-by-step instructions.
The problem is that this kit sold out quickly, which complicates things for users without technical experience. The alternative exists, but it involves going through the installation steps manually, which is not as intuitive for everyone.
In theory, the solution is affordable and cheap. In practice, the lack of a simplified process for the general public can become an obstacle.
But the stake is much higher. Estimates show that hundreds of millions of PCs cannot make the switch to Windows 11, mainly due to hardware limitations. For these users, the options are limited: change the device, continue using an unsupported system, or switch to another operating system.
This is where Google’s strategy comes in. ChromeOS Flex is built around the idea of using in the cloud, with constant updates and a high level of security, even on older hardware.
