It’s been news for some time that ChromeOS will be merging with Android. Google is embroiled in a DOJ case where they’re being asked to sell Chrome partly due to their seacrh monopoly. This spells a lot of uncertainty for ChromeOS, as it’s entirely based on the Chrome browser installed on a lightweight Linux base.
Android apps are already available on ChomeOS as a container layer for higher-end Chromebooks, as are Linux apps (also in their own walled container). I don’t really take advantage of this feature on my ChromeOS devices since most of my needs are met by web apps. Also, in my experience, many Android apps don’t feel optimized for desktop usage, even on my touchscreen Chromebook.
The Value of Minimalism and Security from Malware
It’s too soon to tell what this merger might look like since I’m an end user who doesn’t work in IT. One of the strongest selling points of ChromeOS is its bloat-free, instant-on, and no frills secure OS-stack. In my opinion, this straightforward and minimalist OS structure adds to ChromeOS’ security and protects it from junk apps and malware that you might find on Android.
A migration to Android might open ChromeOS up to an ecosystem of security issues. One of the main benefits of ChromeOS (especially for schools, older adults, and organizations) is its low-maintenance requirements. Merging the full Android stack might increase tech support costs and create support headaches that weren’t there before. A casual stroll to the T-Mobile subreddit makes the point of how much junk people mess up their Android phones with.
Without the minimalism that makes ChromeOS fast on even low-end hardware, my other concern is that total integration might make it feel like yet another bloated OS. Right now, it’s nice to have the choice to install the Google Play store as an option versus an integrated part of the OS.
Locally installed apps often have more features, but they can bog down system resources much more than speedy cloud-based web apps. This might bring up the price and minimum hardware specs of Chromebooks.
Sustainability and Reducing E-Waste
Many Chrome devices are promised updates for 10 years, with many current devices promised updates until 2034. Reducing e-waste and making sure schools and organizations can increase the longevity of devices is an important issue so that these Chrome devices don’t become abandon-ware or so that they can at least be salvaged by allowing a light Linux distro to be installed on them at the end of their support life. That said, it’s very unlikely that this merger will happen in the immediate future, but it’s an important factor to consider.
Possibility and Opportunity
One of the possible positive outcomes of ChromeOS migrating to Android, is of course, the channeling of development resources to just one platform instead of two. If Google does this transition well, it can cement itself as a strong third competitor to Windows and Mac OS with its large availability of apps and device form factors (tablets, 2-in-1s, laptops, and even desktop Chromeboxes).
I don’t necessarily see ChromeOS replacing other Linux distros as the Linux “desktop king,” since they have different target markets. Even on the consumer desktop market where ChromeOS and Linux might overlap (e.g., Mint and Zorin), I think it’s important to still have libre distros that don’t depend on one company for its ecosystem. Plus, Linux will always have the added benefit of privacy and open source values). Choice is good, and this would be another choice that could encourage more competition.
Chromebook Reviews 