Prime Highlights
- Google and Back Market have launched a $3 USB kit that converts old Windows 10 machines into Chrome OS Flex devices.
- The kit targets around 500 million users whose devices cannot upgrade to Windows 11.
Key Facts
- Google is a US-based technology company behind the Chrome browser and Android operating system.
- Back Market is a French platform specialising in refurbished electronics.
Background
Google has launched a low-cost solution for the hundreds of millions of users whose computers cannot run Windows 11. Working with refurbished-tech platform Back Market, Google has released a physical Chrome OS Flex USB Kit priced at just $3, which converts an old, unsupported machine into a cloud-based system without buying new hardware.
Windows 10 officially lost support last October, leaving users with ageing devices caught between two options — continue running an insecure system or spend hundreds on a replacement. Google estimates around 500 million users face this problem because their hardware does not meet Windows 11’s requirements.
The USB kit is designed to be used by people who do not have technical expertise. The product provides instructional materials that include both step-by-step guides and video tutorials to assist users with the installation process. Once installed, devices boot in under 10 seconds, with most processing handled through the cloud.
Beyond cost savings, Google is also pushing the environmental angle. With roughly 61.3 million metric tons of tech waste expected this year, the company says Chrome OS Flex consumes about 19% less energy than comparable systems. The system helps businesses use their own equipment longer, in turn reducing the need for new equipment and keeping old equipment out of landfills.
Chrome OS Flex serves its purpose best as a web browsing platform, which enables users to stream content and perform cloud-based work. The operating system lacks support for Android applications, which limits its functionality. Users dependent on Windows-native software may find it falls short.
The kit is currently part of a pilot programme with limited availability. Google has indicated it will scale production if demand grows.