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Give your laptop a new life with ChromeOS Flex
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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. 1 This left many people with a difficult decision: spend hundreds on a new device, or continue using an insecure, outdated one.
To offer another solution, Google is partnering with Back Market, a leader in refurbished electronics. Starting today, a new ChromeOS Flex USB Kit is available on their site to help you install our fast, secure and free operating system to modernize the PC or Mac you already own. It comes with simplified guides and video tutorials from Back Market to demystify the installation process. While you can always download ChromeOS Flex for free from our website, these kits are designed to make the upgrade even easier.
A shared challenge
Just because an operating system reaches its limit doesn’t mean the hardware has to. Maintaining software support is a formidable challenge, and Google is no stranger to it. For instance, as part of our own efforts, we’ve extended software updates for Chromebooks to 10 years and Pixel phones to seven years. This pilot is yet another way we’re working to offer a more sustainable alternative for expired Windows computers to extend their useful lifespans.
A new life cycle
The manufacturing process of a new laptop is responsible for a large part of its carbon footprint. ChromeOS Flex allows the already-manufactured device to be used for longer, which keeps hardware out of landfills and avoids the emissions of making a new device. Savings do not stop there, ChromeOS also consumes 19% less energy on average than other comparable systems. 2
Together with Back Market, we’re proving that the more sustainable device is often the one already in your hands. This physical kit, priced around $3 or €3, is one part of that effort. The drive is reusable, and our partnership with Closing the Loop further minimizes e-waste. 3
To see if your device is compatible, check the Certified Models List.
