You Can Now Install ChromeOS On ANY Computer

[@GrdDog]

I'm running Flex on an old Lenovo laptop (with decent specs); gives me limited things I can do, but I only takes this when I'm out and about and do not want to take my tablet, one thing I did notice was the increase in the battery usage length to 7 hours and yes I tested that 5 times, over all a decent o.s. that can get small things done, I like it.

[@moonphoenix9324]

If you want a less limited experience, install a linux distro (like PopOS or Fedora) for very similar performance

[@JohnSmith-xq1pz]

Does Flex have have a dark mode?

[@TheOperatingSystemWorld]

@@JohnSmith-xq1pz It's coming to version 105. The latest version is 104.

[@BotanistOnDuna]

chromeos sucks, get a linux distro based on ubuntu. ubuntu based distros are super easy to use, apt is the easiest package manager ever. it also has more apps and you can even run windows programs on it through wine.

[@TheOperatingSystemWorld]

@@BotanistOnDuna Chrome OS is a ChromiumOS-based Distro. You can install Linux Apps.

[@jayrome8764]

I'm running actual ChromeOS (rammus) via brunch framework on a Thinkpad T550 and I am very happy with it. I can run Android apps and I even rooted the Android container. ChromeOS absolutely flies on this machine (16gb ram, i7). I dual boot it with Windows 11. I get better battery life running on the ChromeOS side, so it is my daily driver. I only boot into Windows to run software unique to Windows.

[@krishnaaryan595]

can you tell me how u did it

[@markhunter1]

what processor u are using ?

[@WilliamShinal]

You might not like the accusatory nature of this statement but this was ORIGINALLY a distribution of ChromiumOS called Cloudready. By purchasing Neverware, Google has dodged making a version of ChromeOS that is based on THE ChromeOS they use on their Chromebooks. They know how to keep their cards close.

[@warthunder1969]

True but they also did alot of "under the hood" tweaks to bring Flex in line with stock Chrome OS. To be honest I owned a Acer Chromebook Cb3-111 and if all you do is stuff in the browser (which is how Chrome OS was born) then its fine for a side machine. I've got it running on 2 older system (one is a lenovo thinkpad L512 and the other is a Lenovo chromebook x131e that became unsupported) and it runs fine on both. Again nothing groundbreaking but good enough for basic computing.

[@Sumire973]

CloudReady turns into CentOS 2.0 basically, epic EEE move from Google.

[@tacokoneko]

im going to be honest i have used chromiumos and i am not really sure what your point is because chromiumos with google apps installed is borderline identical to normal chromeos, probably always better because chromeos can be locked so you don't have permissions to enable developer mode but if you compile chromiumos yourself that does not apply

[@tacokoneko]

in the chromiumos i installed there was even google play store and the android apps worked on x86 CPU which seems to be the big issue for some people, i have a video of it on my channel edit: nvm that is a chromeos build but i used a chormiumos separately and i could post videos of that if someone asks

[@Sumire973]

@@tacokoneko which Chromium OS build are you talking about?

[@StuffOfSonny]

My only guess as to why the Google Play store (and others) might not work is that they might be expecting an ARM based ChromeOS, and not x86.

[@that_leaflet]

Most Chromebooks are x86 and can run Android apps. It's just Google keeping certain features exclusive to the "official" ChromeOS.

[@sunightmc]

@@ilan6291 what features exactly were removed?

[@gblaudio]

This is just google wanting some more user data....

[@edbp7689]

Android programs are written in Java and more recently, Kotlin, they're both interpreted programming languaje (a.k.a. not compiled), so the underlying hardware is irrelevant as long as there's a full featured interpreter (e.g. Dalvik).

[@sorinl8467]

It's a cut edition. Some kind of shareware but buy a Chromebook if you want more.

[@tOSdude]

One note about the media creator: The reason it asks for model numbers is so you can recover other chomebooks, not just flex. All of those other options will install the real chrome OS.

[@mjdxp5688]

This could have a lot of uses that people aren't really thinking of. It could be great for schools with older, out of support Chromebooks which no longer officially received ChromeOS updates. I guess this could be useful for developers as well for testing.

[@mxmobile5619]

Older chromebooks have no support under chromeOS flex due to their locked down boot protocol

[@helloworld145]

@@mxmobile5619 With some modding, you can get past that locked boot protocol on some chromebooks.

[@mxmobile5619]

@@helloworld145 “with some modding”. Yes you can with some modding but realistically most people will look at the underpowered hardware and lack of official support and call it a day.

[@KisameSempai]

@@tanawatjukmongkol2178 You don't understand. in the most recent chromebooks, the bootloader is locked and you cannot install linux or even chromeos flex. that made me not buy a chromebook. I bought a used windows 10 business laptop instead and boot win10, ubuntu, fedora, android and chromeos on it.

[@kevinwong_2016]

@@mxmobile5619 yeah I thought that

[@fexploder3281]

I don't know about you but in my opinion I am like "Who wants to install Chrome OS on their computer" because I don't like Chrome OS but anyways, nice video. Keep it up!

[@aleksandar6056]

I don't like Chrome even as a web browser... Even Edge is better

[@KEN4K]

@@aleksandar6056 which is funny because edge is chromium based

[@affyne]

@@KEN4K without any bloat* under the hood edge is based on chromium sure but i must say that chrome itself sucks, too much memory usage and whatnot. i've been using chrome for like 6-7 years and i am not even a microsoft fan but Edge IS way better than chrome in all aspects. that microsoft who is infamous for the bloat in their apps, for once they are doing good in something lol

[@jean-olivierjanvier6030]

ChromeOS is, to me, the iPad OS of computers

[@n124ajdx]

I'll install Chrome OS just to try it for like a week but I won't stick with it. Just like how I install a random Linux distro from time to time. Edge has the necessary tools that a browser needs without the garbage bloatwares of chrome

[@abaneyone]

I like this but I think doing a fresh install of a Linux distribution, installing Linux over the existing operating system is a better idea. I've installed Linux on old laptops and PCs many times, always 100% success.

[@sticky59]

Now your talking !

[@chemicallust77]

Agreed...the limitations of the Chrome OS don't make it very appealing...I have something like a netbook (definitely more powerful) HP 3105m with 8gb RAM that I run Mint on and it works great...mostly use it for work and music in my den/workshop...I'm kind of curious if a version of the Chrome OS can be made to side load on an older Android tablet 🤔

[@tartara3315]

Just installed Manjaro, Zorin and Mint linux distributions one after another on an old laptop - only one of those worked with internet and that one only recognised Ethernet too (others straight up denied both Ethernet and WiFi), I tried everything but couldn't get it to work although on windows they work just fine so issue is not hardware related. it's a 32 bit based CPU so not a lot of options to choose from (even among Linux distributions), just what's available soo yeah now I'm trying Chrome OS! Btw I tried win 10 32 bit too but it was too slow and laggy and Win 8.1 32 bit was a tad bit faster but still not very good...

[@tartara3315]

Tried windows 7 32 bit too, worked wonderfully but as Microsoft's official Win 7 ISO isn't available, I had to get a 3rd party version with plenty of viruses and trojan on it... so I gave up on it

[@gary4689]

I am happy that google added this functionality, however. I think it might serve as a gateway drug to Linux, considering that ChromeOS is essentially a specialized version of it.

[@Hodenkat]

I personally don't have a reason to install ChromeOS on anything right now, but I can see where it might help those who are not technical and need limited choices like doing everything through a browser. Windows just has too many settings and things that can get a user into trouble. The same applies to Linux. For a lot of seniors this is more than enough.

[@AMKpolka5]

Nice video but for anyone interested installing this on an old desktop or laptop please make sure that the devices motherboard supports UEFI/Secure Boot otherwise, even if it says you installed Flex OS successfully, you won't ever be able to boot onto the OS.

[@breadone_]

google moment

[@KatyushaLauncher]

Not necessarily true, I was able to install Chrome OS Flex on an old HP OEM PC and an old Lenovo Thinkpad both which neither support UEFI or Secure Boot but was still able to boot and tinker around with Chrome OS Flex

[@ericodijk]

My 16 year old laptop runs perfectly, no UEFI or whatever, just standard Bios. And I even managed to let it multiboot with Linux.

[@thelakeman2538]

Just install a linux distro at that point, you will be actually getting a full desktop os, or just stick to whatever old windows os came preinstalled with that laptop unless you wanna use the internet. My advice is to try some lightweight linux distro.

[@durschfalltv7505]

Exactly.

[@Username-xr5bx]

IDK why some people choose spyware over freedom

[@bandiddums]

Honestly I'm only interested because of the possibility of running android apps but since that doesn't seem to be possible it's pretty much useless for me

[@durschfalltv7505]

@@Username-xr5bx they want to give responsibility to someone else.

[@durschfalltv7505]

@@bandiddums wdym you can run Android apps on Linux. There is way droid for Wayland.

[@annonymous3033]

This is clickbait, the dude said chrome OS its actually chrome OS flex, which doesnt have access to playstore like the real chrome OS

[@TheBlueDeclan]

Chrome OS flex is a part of Chrome OS, so it is still Chrome OS

[@lambdaboy9999]

He could've added Almost*

[@Poosaycvm]

girl

[@ThatYahoo]

It is clickbait but you can actually get the real ChromeOS on a selected amount of devices via Sebanc's Brunch If you can't you can choose FydeOS, you lazy

[@allanmacleod1899]

I am ruuning chrome os flex on a 2007 macbook it works great and gave this old laptop new life .I only have 2 gig of ram but it is still fast,

[@m4rt_]

Just use Linux for giving old stuff new life, it is less bloated. Linux is also good for new computers, tbh everyone should use Linux, it's great

[@vaseklepic12]

I'd just like to interject for a moment. What you’re referring to as Linux, is in fact, GNU/Linux, or as I’ve recently taken to calling it, GNU plus Linux. Linux is not an operating system unto itself, but rather another free component of a fully functioning GNU system made useful by the GNU corelibs, shell utilities and vital system components comprising a full OS as defined by POSIX. Many computer users run a modified version of the GNU system every day, without realizing it. Through a peculiar turn of events, the version of GNU which is widely used today is often called “Linux”, and many of its users are not aware that it is basically the GNU system, developed by the GNU Project. There really is a Linux, and these people are using it, but it is just a part of the system they use. Linux is the kernel: the program in the system that allocates the machine’s resources to the other programs that you run. The kernel is an essential part of an operating system, but useless by itself; it can only function in the context of a complete operating system. Linux is normally used in combination with the GNU operating system: the whole system is basically GNU with Linux added, or GNU/Linux. All the so-called “Linux” distributions are really distributions of GNU/Linux.

[@turle8645]

Average Linux user

[@m4rt_]

@@vaseklepic12 you know what I mean by linux

[@m4rt_]

@@turle8645 linux is the best os

[@godlesssociety498]

GNU/Linux is only great for server room trolls and basement dwelling IT goblins. Some of us use computers to make money, literally I quit my day job and now make money off of my pc. There's really no time for "Linux" I installed it last week and lasted 2 days and reverted back to windows. I actually just received a notification that I've been paid for the month, something that would be impossible using "Linux". It's pretty, it's fast and secure (I suffered a ransomeware attack which prompted me to switch to Linux) but none of my upgrades work properly such as my audio and gpu. Nah thanks

[@ynotaz]

I put Flex on an old thinkpad. It works great. Theo is right about it not having a lot of app options. For basic everyday use and browsing it is handy.

[@mla_den]

Tip: you can install chrome os on any drive you want you just have to tinker a little in the terminal You can hit ctrl+alt+f2 Enter “chronos” for the username Type in “sudo fdisk -l” and find the exact name of the drive you want to install on Then you can type in “sudo chromeos-install --dst /dev/DRIVENAME --target-bios efi” and boom Edit: never mind, the shortcut was disabled in the stable release along with shell access in general

[@themonkeyman2790]

But he installed chrome os "flex" in this video

[@mla_den]

@@themonkeyman2790 that doesn’t matter, they’re essentially the same thing just for different hardware, the command still works

[@themonkeyman2790]

@@mla_den 👍

[@kr6to409]

So we gonna go for the Dev one?

[@Puzzlers100]

I find this bizzare, but I never used my school chromebook until my school let me keep it when graduating, where I forced it to run Gnu+linux rather than Google+linux and now I'm really happy with it.

[@Omooze]

If chromeos flex added play store support i would definitely install it

[@pyp2205]

Well it was just released recently, so I guess Google might add Google Play support at some point.

[@AlphaDango]

Just install Android then?

[@barracuda861]

I wonder if Bluestack will work. Then you will have game support. This program works great on my Windows 11 laptop.

[@alvzcizzler]

There's a modified version of Chrome OS that supports Google Play for all computers

[@linuxization4205]

Just emulate an arm64 virtual machine?

[@martinus_mars]

Very few reasons to get Flex. The installation drive issue is critical and so obvious that it's hard to believe that it wasn't done on purpose, but I do not know why they would do that

[@elmariachi5133]

Down dumbing. Today's mainstream consumer is not supposed to being able to do such complicated things like decide between 2(Two!) options.

[@Qwerty-uiop]

If a person is advanced enough to go into boot manager, they can definitely select their boot drive. Maybe google thinks grandmas will install this

[@jen_ate_that]

I’m sure it’s a bug since flex is still in development. Maybe they just automatically install on the drive with more storage (which is still stupid).

[@MKAdamski]

I have a small micro PC (13*13*2cm) that I brought a few years ago. It has a 64 bit processor (Can't remember speed), 4GB RAM, 64GB Storage (Built in to motherboard) and came with Windows 7. The only upgradable part was the RAM. I had installed and used different Ubuntu based OSs and for the past 4 years had it attached to a TV and used it to view KZbin, Amazon Prime, Plex etc. I noticed that recently (last 6 months) it was lagging whenever I was streaming so tried a few minimal OSs. I tried a few different Chromium based OSs and none worked. This version worked perfect. boots in less than 20 seconds, no lag, no BS apps/programs taking space/memory. Like Thio.Joe I can't install anything from Playstore (but I don't need to as everything I need to access can be done via a browser). Thank you for the video

[@sofiaknyazeva]

For me, it'd be much better if I use a lightweight Linux distro, instead this one but still interesting, since I never installed/used it before.

[@famousmwofficial8046]

it's a light weight Linux distro made by Google. give it a shot 😉

[@butlerwm]

I installed it on a 2008 Toshiba laptop. Runs better on that than my Lenovo Chromebook. For all my browsing and streaming needs, it does a very good job. Tried installing only my HP laptop (2002 model) and had problems. Determined it was a bad memory module. Replaced it and installed just fine. I lets me put some machines back in service that had hit end of life.

[@burgersnchips]

I could have sworn I installed ChromeOS year ago on a random PC or a virtual machine when it genuinely was just a Web browser. Today though to revive old tech I'd prefer to just install a lightweight standard Linux distro for the flexibility.

[@encycl07pedia-]

@Matt React It depends. The Web has been built to be a kind of "safe" OS. With HTML5 and all the applications that run on Javascript libraries, you can do quite a lot within your web browser. I've even used a text editor designed to behave like vim attached to Google Drive all in the web browser.

[@kennystrawnmusic]

One thing I’m sure most aren’t aware of is that Chrome OS *is* Linux under the hood - more so than Android in fact because there’s an X server (on older builds) and a Wayland compositor (on newer builds) along with a full GNU stack that the Google stuff is running on top of, not just BusyBox and some obscure Java-based display server in the Android case. When you “install Linux” on a Chromebook you’re really just installing an LXC container. Gentoo’s Portage package manager is even used as part of the build process.

[@BriefNerdOriginal]

You can install Linux on any computer since ages. Don't make Alphabet have still a stronger hold onto your data than what they already have. Break free and support open source, open protocols, open formats, and open mind. Plus, nowadays Linux is very easy to install and works great.

[@kevinwong_2016]

🙋👍🏻

[@kevinwong_2016]

Yes i support oss but alphabet is fine

[@marshall3412]

i installed chrome os flex beta on an old hp 2000 notebook pc and it works very well 7.5/10

[@MarkBarrett]

When I installed ChromeOS a few months ago as an alternate OS, it replaced my backup storage drive. (Thanks guys.)

[@DimusTech]

I tried it on an old macbook at work, honestly, works much better than a new macbook lol. But I'd really wish we could put an ISO of it on Ventoy or something.

[@Gokul_Yt]

The thing that i do with old laptops is install a very small linux or get linux server and install the things Like a Gui and a browser but chrome os is a great way to solve the issue

[@tilsgee]

Same, but i prefer Ubuntu with MATE / xfce UI

[@Gokul_Yt]

@@tilsgee i also prefer xfce as gui and brave as browser

[@Cavi587]

It's not that great actually, it's not fully open source. I wouldn't trust it. I prefer using a lightweight distro on the LXQt desktop enviroment of XFCE.

[@Gokul_Yt]

@@Cavi587 for noobies its good

[@tilsgee]

@@Cavi587 hey, at least it's better than chromeOS Flex, right? XD

[@chriskasprzyk6235]

Watching this on an old low power intel nuc that I threw chrome os flex on. Works great for what I am wanting it to do.

[@KristophM]

Just use an actual GNU/Linux distro. I use Manjaro on my 10 year old Dell laptop and it transformed it as if it was brand new. Screw Windows. I'll have to check out Chrome OS just for the shits and giggles.

[@lafamillecarrington]

I have an old Chromebook that no longer gets security updates, so I installed Cloudready, only to find that the battery had died. Finally got a replacement battery, and discovered that Cloudready had been bought by Google, so now I'll be moving on to Flex! Thanks for the information.

[@garethperks7032]

Great video! I think Android-x86 or an OS based on it might be a more wholesome desktop experience with more app freedom.

[@andrejbartulin]

I installed Android x86 in VmWare once

[@GameMaker3_5]

I believe Remix OS exists which is basically Android x86 with a more desktop friendly GUI

[@GoogleDoesEvil]

Unfortunately, Android is far more locked down than Windows.

[@camtoufan3704]

I believe that installing a full version Linux distro on an old netbook is the better option. I have an 11 year old Acer netbook that have recently installed Linux Mint 21.1 Vera XFCE version on it, and it runs like a charm. It used to have a slow outdated unsupported Window 7 home edition on it.

[@rikimaru1007]

Good info. Not a chrome fan. I'm happy to install a low spec linux on old pc's. Xubuntu is my go to for now.

[@durschfalltv7505]

Maybe also take a look at lxde and wayfire.

[@KISSFanDan1995]

I remember those netbooks. I had one (2010-13) and it ran horribly on windows 7 starter so I just downgraded it to Windows XP Pro and upgraded the Ram from 2 to 4 gigs and it ran flawlessly.

[@jacobeii]

yknow, I feel like any beginner Linux distro would do the trick. chrome is is literally Linux but more locked-down and personally not a big fan of that lack of support

[@jen_ate_that]

It’s better for people who just need to use the internet or older people with no tech knowledge. I would never install this on my computer, but I might on my parent’s pc.

[@HeltonsComputerRepair]

If you know how to change settings in the BIOS, you can manually disable what hard drive not to boot. It will make it easier then having to remove the physical hard drive.

[@ervinnasiri4247]

Hi 😊 I installed it on my HP 250 g3 and it was alright when I enabled the Linux beta but the fact that it couldn't run Android apps sucks 😞 but overall it is good for low end PCs that can't run windows 7 or newer versions

[@stinkyrat8498]

just install a linux distro such as lubuntu or peppermint os i can assure you it will be faster than chrome os

[@sihamhamda47]

There's also a Chrome OS Flex alternative called Fyde OS. It's based on Chrome OS and it supports Android apps. But it requires at least 3rd gen Intel Core CPU or any 64 bit Intel and AMD CPUs released in 2012 and newer in order to run properly

[@kittenzrulz2314]

I recommend installing OpenSuse or Fedora KDE spin. Both are essentically ChromeOS but with a better UI, better app support, and dont have google spyware.

[@ervinnasiri4247]

@@sihamhamda47 I installed it and it's the best chrome os flex alternative 💪

[@rfdiego777]

@@stinkyrat8498 I'm a big Linux user, but for some basic tasks (in particular the internet navigation) I find ChromeOs having better performances on lower specs notebooks

[@chad3328]

Just a note about the list of computer models in the Chromebook recovery utility. All of those aren't computers that Chrome OS Flex will work better on. They're a list of actual Chromebooks and other official Chrome OS devices that run "true" chrome OS which has more features than Flex such as being able to run Android apps. You must select Chrome OS Flex for any computer that is not a real Chromebook or Chrome OS device.

[@radu1337]

Why? Every OS they ever did is focused on advertising. Just install an honest linux distribution.

[@chad3328]

@@radu1337 Because this is a video about Chrome OS Flex and not anything else and I was pointing out a small mistake in the video? You can have your gripes about Google's advertising and data collection policies, but that's literally their business. They wouldn't exist at this point in time otherwise. Flex does a great job of what it's meant to do easily. The demographic for it and Linux are not the same.

[@ranawaqashaider]

ChromeOS Flex is really a nice initiative but I would prefer FydeOS for chromeOS. Its a solid OS for chromeOS flex alternative with playstore and drive features.. By the way Nice Video. Keep it Up bro. Also would like to see your opinion about FydeOS.

[@fluffyspark798]

Today I actually just put manjaro Linux on a 2012 MacBook Pro and it works far better than Mac OS. I might try this as well

[@floppa9415]

No Android Apps is big L. Its in my opinion one of the Key Features of the regular ChromeOS.

[@staidey5994]

and that's exactly why they removed it

[@jen_ate_that]

Literally, I think the only other reason you could install it is for speed or if you mainly use the internet and Google stuff like drive

[@Paasj]

Tried this on an old switch tablet book laptop I gave to the kid... It worked smoothly and was nice and responsive. Dealbreaker is not having google apps store. Think kid will have to have a regular Chromebook if he's gonna use it :) Anyhows! Great review and guide. -And oh, btw... If having trouble writing image to media in edge... Install chrome, and try again ;)

[@hamzapuris]

Great video and an idea! Great for testing and learning about ChromeOS while using old hardware.

[@YasaruDeneth]

7 : 27 in the volume controll you can see the output and input Output :if You using A Headphone something like speaker you can select the output speakers or bluetooth speakers Input : some thing in output option you can select the microphone input one and bluetooth or wired microphone and if you pull the microphone right it will make aloud sound when you recording audio or if you push it left it will low the microphone sound if lower the microphone it means you turned off

[@williamlarson9227]

I've tried it several times on my Dell Optiplex 755 because Microsoft keeps on telling me that it isn't ready for Windows 11. At first, there were several issues with the old nvidia graphics on my computer but with each update, it has improved to the point where the problems are nonexistent. While the computer has not had problems running Windows 10, I'm still looking around for a new daily driver since Microsoft has chosen to stop supporting older computers. Chrome OS Flex doesn't support Linux currently on my Optiplex. I don't understand operating systems, but I have no problem installing the current version or testing versions of Debian on my computer so I'm not sure why I can't install it through Chrome OS Flex. I know it is silly but the most important programs for me on any operating system are Microsoft Solitaire Collection and the ledger command line program. Currently, I can use those programs on both Windows 10 and a Chromebox or Chromebook. As far as Word Processing is concerned, since WordPerfect 6.0 for Dos I've been happy with any Word Processor along with Unix Text Processing systems such as Roff and family.

[@Cavi587]

I think just putting a Linux distribution straight on there would be a lot better to revive that Dell Optiplex system. It saves you all that playing around with ChromeOS which at the end of the day doesn't really give you a lot more possibilities than Linux. Maybe you can't have the actual Microsoft Solitaire Collection on there (although it's possible but needs some fiddling with Wine etc), but there's a lot of alternatives on there too. Linux is great when it comes to compatibility and support for old computers. I have a few old laptops and PC's that would simply refuse to run Windows 10 or even Windows 7 in some cases, but they work perfectly on lightweight Linux distributions that are always up to date and usable.

[@StoneThrower04]

@ThioJoe the list of manufacturers is there because it is the chromebook recovery utility. it was used to recover chromebooks before it was used to download chromeos flex

[@slomellos]

I would install a lightweight linux distro rather than installing ChromeOS. It's also gonna be lightweight and it's functionality would be scalable as well.

[@fantamagier]

A good benefit of Chromebooks are the Support for Android Apps. Linux hast this Feature too but you need more cpu

[@DJ_G-Rod]

Not getting notifications on all your vids, so I had to comment to improve the suggestions so I don't miss your videos.

[@pyp2205]

Well I guess that means I can try Chrome OS again on a virtual machine.

[@schnow265]

This is what I would do instantly

[@ThioJoe]

You can try but it will take some work

[@LauwieTech]

@@ThioJoe i got it working now

[@mjdxp5688]

I tried getting this to work in VirtualBox but had no luck. The farthest I was able to get was a loading screen which got nowhere. Apparently VMware users have had better luck though.

[@VitalVampyr]

@@schnow265 If you haven't done that already you can't do it instantly.

[@LegionIscariot]

Steam and Proton is coming to ChromeOS. And despite not being into ChromeOS at all, this whole thing seems interesting...

[@kote315]

It's funny to see people talking about operating systems for "very old netbooks". I had a total of 4 netbooks. 2 of them had 32-bit processors. One had a 64-bit CPU, but it still refused to boot 64-bit systems (I believe this is a BIOS limitation). Only one of my netbooks actually had a working 64-bit processor. Single core. 1200 MHz. And 1 GB of memory (out of the box). Hmmm, for some reason it seems to me that Chrome OS will not work well on it. In any case, it won't work any better than any lightweight Linux flavor.

[@STONE69_]

You can install Antix Linux lxde on the 32 bit PC, its light with a full desktop and comes with a light weight Browser.

[@josel.flores4617]

Great! I can now upgrade my original Pixel Chromebook 2015, which google discontinued a while ago and no longer receives latest ChromeOS builds.

[@CountryBoy94]

installing a lightweight Linux is better if you know how to use Linux. pop_os is really easy to use for basic tasks like web browsing, video calls, etc.

[@jrdavis1992]

I use Pop_OS myself. Works somewhat good on my Toshiba (Dynabook) Satellite laptop. It even supports a Bluetooth dongle I've been using. ChromeOS Flex doesn't seem to support external BT dongles, AFAIK.

[@radavseta]

The first thing to ask yourself is why would anyone voluntarily do that

[@V530-15ICR]

Yeah

[@miker8225]

I'm hoping that Google will eventually design a decent OS to rival Windows.

[@ericodijk]

I hope not. Windows is already there, if you want to rival that: Linux. ChromeOS and Flex as well, they are perfectly fitted for the job they need to do. Don't let it get too big and allround like Windows.

[@Cavi587]

A big corporation made closed source OS to replace another big corporation made closed source OS? Seems like the same deal for me, just a different brand. Just use Linux, it's already better than Windows in most cases and it's not built to collect data on it's users. Gaming is one thing that still needs to be worked on, but since the Steam Deck came out (it runs on Linux) there's been many breakthroughs in Linux gaming. You can basically play most games comfortably now.

[@encycl07pedia-]

Yeah, the KZbin "app" is just a PWA (progressive web app). It's basically a bookmark with some added features like notifications. It's running on Chrome's browser engine, but in a separate window from Chrome, like a minor reskin with no options to enter URIs. I'm pretty sure most of the "apps" are PWAs. PWAs are better than native apps with website equivalents, IMO. Native apps are heavier and more intrusive/spy-y.

[@_SJ]

Very informative. Will you still make a video about the cheapest Chromebook?

[@ThioJoe]

Maybe, still looking into it

[@runthenumbers9698]

You don't have to take out your drive to select the correct drive. You can disable all drives except the one you want to install to in BIOS

[@UNICORNSF3ProgameplayProRACER]

Great material!

[@splatube]

10:40 Chromebooks have google play built-in, but chrome is flex disables this to force you to buy an actual chromebook (if you want android apps that is)

[@RealThore]

9:45 I'd just like to interject for a moment. What you’re referring to as Linux, is in fact, GNU/Linux, or as I’ve recently taken to calling it, GNU plus Linux. Linux is not an operating system unto itself, but rather another free component of a fully functioning GNU system made useful by the GNU corelibs, shell utilities and vital system components comprising a full OS as defined by POSIX. Many computer users run a modified version of the GNU system every day, without realizing it. Through a peculiar turn of events, the version of GNU which is widely used today is often called “Linux”, and many of its users are not aware that it is basically the GNU system, developed by the GNU Project. There really is a Linux, and these people are using it, but it is just a part of the system they use. Linux is the kernel: the program in the system that allocates the machine’s resources to the other programs that you run. The kernel is an essential part of an operating system, but useless by itself; it can only function in the context of a complete operating system. Linux is normally used in combination with the GNU operating system: the whole system is basically GNU with Linux added, or GNU/Linux. All the so-called “Linux” distributions are really distributions of GNU/Linux.

[@richduerr4471]

I tried it, was going to put it on my 7 year old netbook, just for fun. Tried it on a much more recent laptop first and was very disappointed in it. The version of Chrome would not let many websites work properly, there was no app store to add other functionality. It sucked. AndroidOS for PC was far better than that, it basically made your PC an Android device with an app store and everything. Flex is a big fat fail. Still gave your video a like because it is informative, and others might fine use in Flex somehow.

[@abdullah-_-.]

From what I see, chrome OS flex is basically the last chance you have to save a really old computer to give to a child to watch videos or something or for other use

[@abaneyone]

No. Don't forget Linux distributions.

[@abdullah-_-.]

mean I guess that's cool but I mean, still the rest is pretty much a plan b for anyone wanting to get an old laptop working smooth

[@Cavi587]

I think Linux is the better choice here for both the first choice and the last chance. Linux will just run on everything.

[@abdullah-_-.]

@@Cavi587 but chrome OS is a more mainstream version, allot of people don't know or haven't used linux and chrome OS is a more easier to use program

[@Cavi587]

@@abdullah-_-. I would disagree. 10 years ago I would agree, but as of right now Linux is a lot more friendly to new users. Basically if you've ever used Windows, you'll be able to use a Linux distro with any of the common Desktop Enviroments. Also, ChromeOS isn't completely open source. Linux gives you the freedom any other OS can't.

[@dr.tophat]

Personally I hate ChromeOS and would rather use my old laptop for parts but for the people who do want to reuse an old laptop this is kinda cool

[@nin6246]

Please do some videos on Linux. It may take some time to learn but it's worth it.

[@TirthOdharia]

Just tried flex right before your video went live🤔 what a coincidence!!

[@maddog6620]

You are awesome 😎

[@ThioJoe]

No you're awesome

[@itsmenotjames]

My school gives out m1 macbook airs and the new kids always say chromebooks not macbooks! It drives me crazy!

[@Marcel-dd9ch]

ChromeOS is much easier to use than macOS Monterey. I have both a MacBook Air M1 and Pixelbook Go.

[@psi808]

If u actually want to give an old pc new life then just install Ubuntu or really any Linux distro

[@7xyno446]

Since im still a student this is really helpfull, i have a low end desktop

[@cybercub4367]

Better to install linux on old devices, it's lightweight, no bloatware, better privacy and security.

[@nicholashoi3155]

Running this on my old Dell Latitude amd now it has become my secondary college laptop

[@xE92vD]

Back off, ChromeOS. Linux is the OS that is supposed to bring old computers to life again!

[@richards1708]

Yes. 2022 Will the the year of the Linux Desktop!

[@xE92vD]

@@richards1708 Nah, I'm pretty sure Linux will be more popular once Windows 10's life support ends. Windows 11 has too many requirements and I'm sure people are aware of them.

[@richards1708]

@@xE92vD I could see that. But still when it comes to compatibility it's crazy how well even current versions of windows works.. I've seen Dos Based systems running on Windows 10!

[@Marcel-dd9ch]

Don't forget to setup SELinux and your firewall. ChromeOS would be more secure out of the box.

[@joaocabralpv]

I just installed chrome os flex on anold laptop just to see how it is and this is one of the first videos that poped up

[@MWSfan18]

Might do this on my dad's old laptop. Save him from having to shell out hundreds of dollars on a new computer he really only uses for email and some light office work.

[@kim-hendrikmerk4163]

Have a look around linux systems they are far more versatile if up to date apps are important have a look at fedora or if stability is important have a look at debian or look at any forks of both. They can be lighter faster have more apps and are much more customisable.

[@MWSfan18]

@@kim-hendrikmerk4163 My dad is afraid of starting a nuclear apocalypse just by turning on his system. No way in hell I'm gonna give him a system where you need a masters degree just to launch the web browser.

[@basilcat3111]

@@MWSfan18 What? You don't need a master's degree. Where did you hear that from?

[@JacobP81]

Linux is just as easy as Windows. If he can use Windows he can use most graphical Linux distributions. Put Lubuntu or Kubuntu in it and for most tasks it's just like Windows. Just pin Firefox on the taskbar and he can open the web browser in one click. I installed Linux Mint with Cinnamon on my friends computer (another great easy to use Linux) and she uses it to view photos she takes with her camera with no problem and she was computer illiterate.

[@jorgencreeman546]

Love ChromeOS Flex, although it is far from being perfect. But much better than Windows and Linux Distributions. Very easy, fast and polished.

[@gurusaran7193]

Kind of good I wouldn't rlly use that but if there was options to add more apps then I would definitely try it And yeah I Absolutely Enjoyed the vid good job lol

[@robertaddicott5989]

Google did not develop this, they acquired a company called cloud ready. Cloud ready has been producing a version of Chrome OS that can be ported to PCS for some time.

[@lamborghinigamer]

But why would you when normal Linux distributions exist?

[@Marcel-dd9ch]

ChromeOS is much more secure and easier to use for basic computer users. Any Linux applications can do anything with your data in a normal Linux distribution, if you don't do a lot to block that. On top of that, ChromeOS has sandboxes for everything. With Linux, you may use Flatpak, to reach the same level of security.

[@Yellowcat98]

chromeOS is kinda cool because it could really be a good backup computer

[@cyrilio]

Is this really worth it? Also, request to do a video about browsers. Especially alternatives to ‘data stealing’ chrome.

[@Florianski]

Firefox (and its spinoffs) is pretty much the only good browser left sadly.

[@ThioJoe]

If it's an old computer you're not using maybe

[@kittenzrulz2314]

@@ThioJoe At that point Linux would make more sence (especially OpenSuse).

[@mearetom]

alternatives: librewolf(forked Firefox) Firefox, chromium(open source of chrome. there is more but these are good I know.

[@kevinwong_2016]

@@kittenzrulz2314 why open suse

[@Thomas-cityd5_gixitxs]

That’s really cool for old out dated devices. 👍 nice revamp.

[@Philipp..]

At this point a Linux Distribution is a much better option

[@pyp2205]

Yeah totally, Linux running on an old computer with low ram runs pretty well. Plus there are so many distros to choose from.

[@Marcel-dd9ch]

Not for very basic computer users

[@Philipp..]

@@Marcel-dd9ch Even for them. Times have changed: It's very easy to install, runs very fast, does not sell your data, can run the basic programs needed by a "basic computer user" out of the box, is way more capable and adaptable than Chrome OS.

[@Marcel-dd9ch]

@@Philipp.. But you Linux apps collect and use your data in common linux distributions after a normal installation, until you harden your system. And no, not all Open Source tools are secure. Take logj ss an example.

[@Marcel-dd9ch]

I use normal Chromebooks privately for everything and as a Digital Content Creator (Bloger, KZbinr, Writer, etc). I just need my MacBook Air for Video Editing and very seldom, complicated Photoshop edits. That may change in the future. LumaFusion and the first Chromebook with a dedicated Nvidia Chip are on the way. Maybe Davinci Resolve will be a thing, also! 😉

[@skelebro9999]

just use linux mint or antix linux, much better and powerful than chrome os

[@Marcel-dd9ch]

only if you have some Linux knowledge. ChromeOS is much easier to use.

[@skelebro9999]

@@Marcel-dd9ch Yes but gaining Linux knowledge isn't even that hard. But you're right since it's made for schools and stuff.

[@stevenadams9915]

Hey bro, I really enjoy your content fantastic work.

[@Whising]

Well for bad computers, ChromeOS will be the best to go for and for school

[@HearMeLearn]

I wonder if you could use chrome os flex on OLD chromebooks that technically aren't supported anymore, so that you can have them be up to date lmao

[@V530-15ICR]

Xd

[@AbominableHuman]

I already don't like Bill Gates snooping in on me, why would I want Google doing it even more than they already do?

[@barracuda861]

Use VPN to help keep your info safe. Plus go change settings so less info is shared.

[@linuxization4205]

@@barracuda861 a VPN doesn't automatically fix everything, quit believing those nordvpn sponsors, normie.

[@MV60]

@@barracuda861 They still get your info, they just know it's coming from a vpn server instead of you, plus they still don't know where I am, on location based pages like google maps or even the ads fed through FB they think I'm either on the other side of town or even in any other state as I've never gotten a local relevant ad ever yet. Hooray to our nbn along with virtual isp's. Also vpn's log everything you do and will hand that info to the authorities with zero resistance as they know where you are and where you go.

[@Profile-pictureX]

THANK YOU FOR SAYING THAT I CAN INSTALL THIS ON ANY DEVICE. NOW I CAN GIVE MY LAPTOP THE LATEST VERSION OF AN OS

[@Profile-pictureX]

oh look here welp i guess i can use a personal version of chrome os

[@singletona082]

Right now i"m regretting that hte screen on my CR48 died. Be interesting to see if Flex would install on it. Pity Flex appears to not allow installation of Android Apps. That? honestly would be pretty amazing in terms of breathing life into hardware. I love the ChromeOS Interface, but the inclusion of x86 capible apps? That would open so many possibilities.

[@fmphotooffice5513]

Great point. I forgot you can install Android on a PC. That might be more flexible than turning the old hardware to a chrome book. Might experiment with that when I have the time...

[@glenmarshall7470]

Thanks!

[@ThioJoe]

No problem!

[@321sas]

Who’s still using Windows? EDIT: OMG GUYS THIS WAS A YEAR AGO I DONT EVEN REMEMBER COMMENTING THIS SO STOP COMMENTING ON MY STUPID POST

[@qpstrafe]

Gamers

[@panzervpanther-y1b]

Me

[@Windows3ServicePack1]

Michael MJD

[@TrainerGre3n]

Me

[@EarthboundUser100]

Me

[@JacobP81]

0:17 ChromiumOS is a version of ChromeOS you can install on any computer.

[@33yoal]

Why not just install Linux and get a full grown o/s instead of Chrome WITHOUT Google play! Complete waste of time in mho...

[@RichardKingADI]

"Install on ANY computer" ...but only if it is 64bit!! I have several old 32bit machines which I'd hope to use Chrome OSFlex on - but no such luck!!

[@Animeexplainmaster]

Even its doesn't have Google Play Store 😂😂

[@chadhanna9674]

Joe those options aren’t for Chrome OS Flex those are to recover actual chromebook’s firmware

[@prowler1567]

Thanks for the heads up Joe.