Google is building an OS that will finally merge ChromeOS and Android

Google is working on a new operating system, codenamed Aluminum, that will fully combine the ChromeOS and Android platforms for laptops. According to court documents released amid the ongoing antitrust case involving Epic Games, the full launch of the system is not expected before 2028, with closed testing set to begin at the end of 2026.

The main goal of the project is to enable all native Android apps to run directly on Chromebooks, freeing users from relying on web versions of services and compatibility limitations. Currently, ChromeOS depends heavily on the Chrome browser for most tasks, which creates hurdles for offline use and specialized software. Leaked details from 9to5Google suggest Aluminum’s interface will borrow elements from Android designed for larger screens, including an updated taskbar optimized for laptops.

However, the documents show Google has no plans to ditch the core components of its ecosystem. In December 2025, US District Judge Amit Mehta exempted ChromeOS from some restrictions applied to Android, ruling that the Chrome browser is a “necessary component” of this OS. This implies Aluminum will likely maintain deep integration with Chrome and the Google Play Store, allowing Google to keep tight control over the platform.

Google’s leadership previously announced plans to unveil a new version of ChromeOS in 2026. Samir Samat, head of Chrome, confirmed the timeline in September 2025, while Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon described the system as “incredible” after seeing a personal demo. Yet, during court proceedings, Google representatives spoke cautiously, saying they “hope to launch in 2026” but acknowledging a full release could slip to 2028.

The question of support for existing devices remains unresolved. Google guarantees 10 years of updates for Chromebooks, but with plans to phase out ChromeOS entirely by 2034, many current models might not receive a full upgrade to Aluminum. This raises concerns for the education sector and enterprise customers, who have heavily invested in Chromebooks expecting long-term support.