Almost half a year has passed since Microsoft discontinued support for Windows 10. Consequently, numerous laptops are now missing critical security updates, making them vulnerable to cyber threats and malicious software that steal data. While some newer devices can be upgraded to Windows 11 through Microsoft’s update service, older PCs often do not meet the necessary specifications, leaving users with a challenging choice.
Users facing this dilemma can opt to continue using their unsupported laptops, purchase extended updates (ESUs) at a cost, or invest in new devices that come with pre-installed Windows 11.
For those uninterested in the aforementioned options, there is now an additional solution available for aging PCs to prolong their lifespan and prevent them from being discarded. Google recently revealed a collaboration with refurbished electronics vendor Back Market to introduce a USB kit that revitalizes old laptops with ChromeOS Flex software.
ChromeOS Flex serves as a lightweight operating system compatible with numerous older computers, effectively converting them into Chromebook-like devices. Once installed, users gain access to various services including Chrome, Gmail, Docs, and the Android app store without the need to buy a new laptop.
While ChromeOS Flex has always been downloadable for free from Google, the new USB kits are designed to simplify the installation process. Users can even test the system directly from the USB drive before committing to a full installation. The kits have been highly sought after, with current unavailability due to high demand.
In a blog post, Google stated, “Last October marked a pivotal moment for hundreds of millions of computers. Microsoft’s end of support for Windows 10 put these computers at risk of becoming obsolete, leaving many individuals with a tough choice: invest in a new device or persist with an insecure, outdated one.”
Google further added, “To provide an alternative, Google has partnered with Back Market, a prominent refurbished electronics provider. As of today, users can access a new ChromeOS Flex USB Kit on their platform to facilitate the installation of our fast, secure, and cost-free operating system, enabling the modernization of their existing PC or Mac.”
Priced around £3, the kit includes a reusable USB stick, contributing to the reduction of electronic waste. Demand for the kits is evidently high, as they are currently listed as out of stock on Back Market.
Beyond the revival of old laptops, Google highlighted that ChromeOS Flex could also offer environmental advantages. Google mentioned, “The production process of a new laptop accounts for a significant portion of its carbon footprint.”
“By extending the use of already-manufactured devices, ChromeOS Flex helps in keeping hardware out of landfills, reducing the emissions associated with producing new devices. Moreover, ChromeOS consumes 19% less energy on average compared to similar systems,” Google explained.
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