Nearly half a year has passed since Microsoft ceased support for Windows 10. Consequently, numerous laptops are now lacking crucial security updates, making them more vulnerable to cyber threats and malware 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 predicament can opt to continue using their unsupported laptops, pay for extended updates (ESUs), or invest in new devices that come preloaded with Windows 11.
For those uninterested in the aforementioned choices, there is now another option available for older PCs to prolong their lifespan and prevent them from becoming electronic waste. Google has partnered with refurbished electronics retailer Back Market to introduce a USB kit that revitalizes old laptops by installing ChromeOS Flex software.
ChromeOS Flex serves as a lightweight operating system compatible with numerous older computers, effectively transforming them into Chromebook-like devices. Once installed, users can access various services such as Chrome, Gmail, Docs, and the Android app store without the need to purchase a new laptop.
Although ChromeOS Flex has always been available as a free download from Google, the new USB kits aim to simplify the installation process. Users can even test the system directly from the USB drive before committing to a full installation. These kits have gained popularity, with high demand causing them to be currently out of stock.
In a blog post, Google stated, “Last October marked a turning point for hundreds of millions of computers. Microsoft Windows 10 reached its end of support, putting those computers at risk of obsolescence. This left many people with a difficult decision: spend hundreds on a new device, or continue using an insecure, outdated one.
“To provide an alternative solution, Google has collaborated with Back Market, a reputable refurbished electronics provider. Starting today, a new ChromeOS Flex USB Kit is accessible on their platform to assist users in installing our fast, secure, and cost-free operating system to modernize their existing PCs or Macs.”
The kit is priced at approximately £3, and the USB stick is reusable, contributing to further electronic waste reduction. Despite the high demand, the item is currently listed as out of stock on Back Market.
Beyond rejuvenating old laptops, Google suggests that ChromeOS Flex could offer environmental advantages. “The production process of a new laptop significantly contributes to its carbon footprint,” Google noted.
“ChromeOS Flex enables prolonging the use of already-manufactured devices, preventing hardware from ending up in landfills and avoiding the emissions associated with creating new devices. Furthermore, ChromeOS consumes an average of 19% less energy compared to similar systems.”
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