Google is developing Aluminium OS, an Android-based desktop to rival Windows. With built-in Gemini AI and native apps, early tests run on Snapdragon X devices.
© E. Vartanyan
Google looks poised to roll out one of the most significant updates to its ecosystem in years. According to Android Authority, the company is actively building an Android-based desktop operating system under the working name Aluminium OS. The scope of testing suggests the project has reached a penultimate stage of development.
Rumors around the effort have circulated before, but this is the first time the Aluminium OS codename is being cited. The work is underway with Qualcomm, and the aim is to adapt Android for laptops, desktop PCs, 2‑in‑1 hybrids, and tablets—positioning it as an alternative to Windows, which still grapples with power efficiency and optimization on ARM.
There are indications that Google is already trialing the new OS on devices with Snapdragon X chips. Tests are also running on Chromebooks powered by Intel Alder Lake and MediaTek Kompanio. That hints the system could land on some existing models, while ChromeOS may remain an option—still a fit for those who prefer its current look and feel.
Google is putting the spotlight on artificial intelligence. Aluminium OS is expected to ship with built-in Gemini from day one, setting it up as a direct rival to Windows with Copilot. Another promised advantage is native Android apps without UI compromises and without compatibility layers in the middle.
The name could change by the time it’s announced. Leaks point to a debut at I/O in 2026, with the first devices arriving later that year. If the project comes together, the market could finally get a full-fledged Android-based alternative to Windows laptops. Earlier attempts fell short, but with powerful ARM chips in play and Google’s experience scaling Android, the timing this time feels different.