How to Turn an Old Mac or PC Into a Chromebook
Before you take your sluggish old computer to the e-waste dump, try getting it back up and running by installing the Chrome operating system. Google has opened the gates to download Chrome OS Flex , a new version of its all-in-one OS, and this could be the perfect solution if your old Mac or PC is having trouble swallowing updates to its native operating system.
Flex is designed to upgrade older computers with a more cost-effective cloud-centric OS. While it doesn’t have all the features of Chrome, Google promises that basically your Mac or PC will look and feel like a Chromebook running Chrome OS.
Google says Chrome OS Flex will provide a “fast and modern experience from anywhere,” which will speed up your device’s boot time, quick access to VDI (Virtual Desktop Interface) and web apps, and prevent it from slowing down over time. Plus, it’s free.
While overhauling your PC with Chrome OS is nothing new – CloudReady came out in 2015 – Flex OS provides more flexibility than more military options by offering dual boot, allowing users to easily switch between operating systems with a simple restart.
Before installing Chrome OS Flex, be aware that it is in early access mode, so there may be bugs/instability. Also, it won’t do everything Chrome OS does – some features depend on the hardware you’re using to run the OS, and the Google Play and Android apps aren’t supported at all. (Here’s a Google list of differences between Chrome and Chrome OS Flex if you need more info.)
How to Install Google OS Flex on a Laptop or Desktop Computer
- Get a USB drive – 8 GB or more.
- Register yourself .
- Read (and follow) the instructions for creating a bootable Chrome OS Flex USB drive.
- Restart your computer with the Chrome OS Flex USB stick inserted.
- Enjoy your Chrome based computer.
I tried it and the installation was as easy as promised. I offer you the above photographic proof that my 12 year old iMac is now an iChromeFlexMac (or something like that).