Google's Aluminum OS merges ChromeOS and Android for laptops

Google is developing a new operating system codenamed Aluminum, which aims to completely erase the boundary between ChromeOS and Android on laptops. Information about the project emerged in court documents from the Epic Games antitrust case, revealing tentative launch timelines: closed testing is planned for late 2026, with a full release potentially not arriving until 2028.

The core idea behind Aluminum is to run native Android apps directly on Chromebooks, eliminating workarounds and browser dependency. Currently, ChromeOS relies heavily on web applications and Chrome, which limits offline work and professional software use. The new system will feature an interface adapted for larger screens, with a redesigned taskbar and Android elements optimized for laptops.

However, Google doesn't plan to abandon its current ecosystem entirely. In December 2025, U.S. federal judge Amit Mehta ruled that Chrome is an "essential component" of ChromeOS, exempting the system from certain restrictions applied to Android. This suggests Aluminum will likely maintain tight integration with the Chrome browser and Google Play Store, allowing the company to retain platform control.

Previously, Google representatives mentioned an updated ChromeOS version arriving in 2026. Chrome head Sameer Samat confirmed these plans, and Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon called the future system "incredible" after seeing a demo version. But court documents use notably more cautious language—Google emphasizes that timelines could shift, with a full launch possibly delayed until 2028.

Another issue is the fate of existing devices. While Google promises 10 years of updates for Chromebooks, plans to gradually phase out ChromeOS by 2034 cast doubt on whether many current models will receive a full upgrade. This could pose challenges for educational institutions and corporate clients who purchased Chromebooks in bulk expecting long-term support.