In a bid to extend the life of Chromebooks, Google has unveiled a decade-long commitment to continuous software updates, set to kick off in 2024. But as is often the case with Google, the rules are intricate.
For those who own a Chromebook released in 2021 or later, there’s no need to fret – you’re automatically entitled to the full ten years of support. It’s a straightforward deal. However, for those with devices dating back to before 2021, the option to “extend automatic updates to 10 years from [a] platform’s release” is on the table, but things get a tad convoluted. Here’s the catch: Google’s definition of “platforms” varies from one Chromebook to another, depending on their unique mix of hardware components and software. So, what might work for an HP Chromebook may not apply to a Lenovo, and vice versa.
To discover just how many years of support your laptop is in for, you’ll need to dive into the Auto Update policy page on Google’s Help Center website and look up your Chromebook model.
For instance, the HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook will be enjoying security patches until June 2032, while the HP Chromebook G2’s update journey concludes in June 2028 – provided you accept the offer. Even if you choose not to opt in, Google assures users of their “strong, built-in security features” for data protection.
But that’s not all – Google is rolling out new features in the coming months. If you happen to own a compatible Chromebook, you’ll benefit from improved energy efficiency. First on the list is Adaptive Charging, designed to slow down charging speeds and help preserve your battery’s health. Additionally, Battery Saver will be introduced to turn off energy-hungry processes.
In a related move, Google is simplifying the repair process, allowing authorized repair centers and school technicians to fix Chromebooks without the need for a physical USB key. This development might be linked to Google’s motivation behind the extended software support.
Flashback to early August, when the US PIRG (Public Interest Research Group) Education Fund criticized Google for failing to update Chromebooks, leaving countless students across the nation with obsolete laptops. Google initially pledged eight years of security updates, but by the time school districts acquired Chromebooks, that timeline dwindled to just five years. This left the devices without upgrades, essentially rendering them as plastic bricks. Responding to the PIRG’s call to “double the life” of their hardware, Google delivered.
While this move towards longevity is commendable, one question remains: is this 10-year initiative limited to the United States or will it reach a global audience? The announcement doesn’t make that entirely clear.
