Google released ChromeOS Flex, a free cloud-based secure operating system for older PCs and Macs in July 2022. Potential users should check if their device is on Google’s list of computers models that are certified to work with ChromeOS Flex. Documentation is available at chromeenterprise.google/os/chromeosflex and at the Chrome OS Flex Help site.
Tag Archives: Operating Systems
Microsoft Build event May 24 to May 26 2022
Microsoft will hold its annual technology Build event from May 24 to May 26, 2022. Registration is free; more information is available at the event FAQ page.
SystemRescue operating system for computer repairs
SystemRescue is a Linux operating system designed to repair Windows and Linux computers. It can be downloaded and started from a CD/DVD drive or USB drive. More information is available in the Quick Start guide and online documentation.
Microsoft releases Windows 11 SE operating system
Microsoft has released Windows 11 SE, a new operating system specifically optimized for low-cost computers for students and schools. More information about this new OS is available at the FAQ page.
Apple releases iPhone 13 models and iOS15
Apple announced the release of several new devices and operating systems at its September 2021 event:
Windows 365 Cloud PC now available from Microsoft
Microsoft released Windows 365, a cloud-based PC service that runs Windows 10 or Windows 11, on August 2, 2021. This new service is based on Azure Virtual Desktop. More information is available at these links:
- Windows 365 Home page
- Windows 365 FAQ (Frequently asked questions)
- Wndows 365 Pricing
- Windows 365 User Dashboard
- Microsoft 365 Admin Center
- Windows 365 Configuration
- Microsoft 365 Admin Center Documentation and Setup
- #Windows365
Microsoft announces upcoming release of Windows 11
Microsoft announced the upcoming release of Windows 11 on June 24, 2021. Windows 11 is set to be released on October 5, 2021.
Some of the changes include changes to the Microsoft Store and apps, as well as a new partnership with Amazon to bring their catalog of Android apps and games to Windows users.
Windows 11 will be available as an update to existing Windows 10 devices that meet its specifications. Windows 11 requires a Trusted Platform Module (TPM 2.0) chip. Minimum hardware and Processor requirements for Windows 11 and other versions are also available. These requirements apply to physical PCs and Virtual Machines (VMs). Users can run a PC Health Check app to see if their current PC is compatible to run Windows 11.
If Windows 11 is installed on devices that do not meet these requirements, security updates may not be available, and kernel mode crashes may occur more often.
Microsoft will end support for Windows 10 Home and Pro on October 14, 2025.
More information can be found at microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-11.
Chromebook adds new features for 10 year anniversary
Google has added new features to celebrate 10 years of Chromebooks as part of Chrome OS 89. These include:
- Phone Hub
- Clipboard
- Quick Answers
- Tote file manager
- Nearby Share
- Select-to-speak enhancements
- Screen Capture and media controls added to Quick Settings menu
Chrome OS is currently the second most popular operating system, according to Google.
A full list of Chromebook keyboard shortcuts may be found here.
Google buys Neverware and CloudReady software
Neverware, which develops CloudReady, announced in December 2020 that it will be soon be part of Google. CloudReady is an operating system based on the open-source Chromium OS that is free for home use to install on computers that meet its minimum requirements.
Chrome OS automatic updates may not be available for older devices
Google’s Chrome OS is a secure choice for an operating system, but older devices may no longer be supported. When a Chrome device reaches its Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date, automatic updates from Google will no longer be provided.
IFixit has instructions on how to convert a working Chromebook past its expiration date to use CloudReady.