What is ChromeOS flex and how is it different?Solved

Hello @tommy , 

ChromeOS Flex is actually different from the regular ChromeOS. While ChromeOS is specifically designed for Chromebooks, Chromeboxes, and Chromebases, ChromeOS Flex is intended for older PCs and Macs. It’s a lightweight version that lets you repurpose old devices by turning them into ChromeOS-like devices. Since it’s a cloud-based OS, you just need a reliable internet connection to get the most out of it. One of the main advantages of ChromeOS Flex is the fast boot time and automatic updates, ensuring your device stays secure and up to date. It’s a great way to give life to older machines that no longer receive official OS updates, while still having access to Google’s web services for a smooth, browser-based experience. 

Hey @cameron ,

So, is it just like ChromeOS but for devices other than Chromebooks, or is it different? Does it offer any less features?

Hello @tommy ,

ChromeOS Flex offers most of the benefits and features of ChromeOS, but it is not exactly the same. There are some important differences between ChromeOS Flex and ChromeOS. Some major areas where you can find changes are:

Security: Security is somewhat reduced on ChromeOS Flex compared to standard ChromeOS. Features like Google’s security chip, automatic firmware updates, and hardware-level security checks for TPM by Google are missing in ChromeOS Flex.

Supported Virtual Machines and Apps: ChromeOS Flex does not support Android apps or Google Play, nor does it support running Windows virtual machines (VMs) using Parallels Desktop. Support for the Linux development environment varies depending on the specific device model.

Hardware Support and Performance: Only certified models enrolled in the Google Admin console are eligible for support. Keyboard layouts and shortcuts may differ from standard ChromeOS. Some hardware features, like CD drives and fingerprint readers, are not supported. Performance, including boot speed and battery life, may vary compared to ChromeOS devices.

You can refer to the following page for a clear idea:

https://support.google.com/chromeosflex/answer/11542901?hl=en

Hey @cameron ,

I have an old MacBook air running Monterey, and also a Windows 8 PC (yes, I know, we exist). How do I know if these devices are compatible with ChromeOS flex? May I also get any info on how to install the OS too.

Hello @skylar-a ,

It is a good idea to put your old devices into use. As devices get older, they stop receiving OS updates, making them laggy and unusable. ChromeOS Flex, being a lightweight OS, can easily turn your system into a useful machine. There are minimum system requirements to get the most out of ChromeOS Flex:

• Software Architecture: Intel or AMD x86-64-bit CPU
• RAM: 4GB
• Internal Storage: 16GB hard drive space
• Access to BIOS (to make adjustments if any issues occur while booting)

Google provides a list of certified devices that support the installation of ChromeOS Flex. Unsupported devices might work, but functionality and stability could be compromised.

To install ChromeOS Flex on your devices, you need a USB drive with 8GB of free storage and another device (PC or Mac) to prepare the USB. Follow these steps:

1. Create your USB installer with the ChromeOS Flex image.
2. Boot your device using the USB installer.
3. Install ChromeOS Flex on your device, or temporarily run ChromeOS Flex using the USB installer.
4. Set up and enroll your ChromeOS Flex devices.

You can check the following documentation for a clear step-by-step guide on how to install ChromeOS Flex:

https://support.google.com/chromeosflex/answer/11552529

Hello guys,
Is there a way to manage ChromeOS devices remotely?

Hello @bram ,

Thank you for reaching out. In response to your question, yes, we can manage ChromeOS devices remotely, and Hexnode will be introducing support for ChromeOS management soon. You can enroll your devices and add them to the Google Admin console. Once your Hexnode console is integrated with Google Workspace, the devices in your Google Admin console will automatically sync to Hexnode, allowing for direct management.

Regards,
George
Hexnode UEM