What is ChromeOS Flex?

ChromeOS is a proprietary operating system from Google that comes by default installed on Chromebooks. However, it is impossible to install on other systems. In fact, there are some projects that allow us to install a free version, Chromium OS. In this way we can have an experience similar to that of Google’s system, but without some advantages offered by this system. Now, Google wants to bring its experience to all users who would like to turn their computer into a Chromebook. And, to do so, it has launched the first version of its system, ChromeOS Flex, for everyone.

Similar to ChromeOS, Flex is an open version of this operating system so that any interested user can install it on any computer. However, those who can take most advantage of this system are companies. Indeed, ChromeOS has very advanced security measures. It also has remote administration functions that, in a home, we are not going to take advantage of.

This new operating system allows us to install the Google ecosystem directly on our computer. This ecosystem runs an instance of Chrome, which we can use to browse the Internet. As for the applications, these are somewhat limited. In fact, we can only download and install those that are available in the application store itself, the Chrome Store. Similarly, we can use any webapp as if it were an application natively installed on the PC.

Google has published a list with more than 400 certified devices on which this new ChromeOS Flex works perfectly. However, we will be able to download and install it without problems on any computer, with any hardware.

Download and install

Google has simplified to the maximum the implementation of its new operating system. All we have to do is download it from the Google website. Once downloaded, we save it to a USB memory to proceed with the installation.

When booting the PC with this USB stick, ChromeOS Flex itself will erase our current system and install itself on the computer without us having to do anything. In just a few minutes, we will have this new Google system up and running. If any user was using CloudReady OS, all of them will be automatically upgraded to Flex when this operating system reaches its stable version.

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Using CloudReady to install Chrome OS.

Before we go any further, I would like to make some considerations. First, Chrome OS is a proprietary commercial operating system. For that reason, it is designed to be installed on specific hardware manufactured by Google’s partners. Consequently, it is not easy to have a copy of Chrome OS as such. However, Chromium OS is an open source project. Furthermore, it can be freely compiled from its source code.

On the other hand, there are many options to run this version. However, the most user-friendly option is provided by CloudReady. This project provides ISO images to run Chromium OS on a computer. But in addition, they already have an OVA ready to virtualize on VMware Player. This way we can enjoy an experience almost identical to Chrome OS. Because Chromium OS is the foundation of that system. Also, since it is already compiled, the installation is very simple.

VMware Workstation Player is a great platform to install Chrome OS on a virtual machine.

We have previously talked about VMware Workstation Player. This free software is used to virtualize operating systems. In fact, in osradar we already teach you how to download and use it. However, today we will use a different method. That is, we will not load an ISO to start running the operating system. Instead, we will use an OVA. Which is a virtual device used by VMware. In addition, this file contains all the files needed to virtualize the operating system. For this reason, the procedure for booting the system is a little different, as we will see later. In the first place, you must download the OVA from this link. Then start VMware Workstation Player and click on the Player menu. Then select File and then Open.

Then select the previously downloaded OVA.

A window will be displayed immediately. Once there, please assign the name for the virtual machine. Also, edit the storage address. After assigning the parameters, please start the import process.

Please wait a few moments while the import process begins.

Next, VMware is ready to start loading Chromium OS.

Editing some elements of the virtual machine.

As mentioned, VMware is now ready to run the virtual machine. However, it is necessary to check some elements so that it runs smoothly. With this in mind, click on Edit Virtual Machine Settings:

The first thing you have to do is verify the configuration of the network adapter. This is very important, since it allows the connection to the Internet. Please note that Chromium OS is cloud-based, so connectivity is essential. Consequently, the network connection must be bridged.

Another aspect to consider is adding a sound card. This way it is possible to play audio from the virtual machine.

Running Chromium OS for the first time

To load the system for the first time, just click on Play Machine. The system will immediately run. On the welcome page, click on Let’s go.

Then check the internet connection.

The wizard then asks for the data collection. You can enable it or not.

Please note that this is a system developed by Google and based on Chrome. For this reason it is essential to enter Gmail credentials.

Then enter the account password.

Finally you are ready to start using Chromium OS.

Finally, you can start using the operating system. The following image shows the Chromium OS Control Center.

Next we will see the Chromium browser running. Also, the system settings.

Please note that this system is cloud-based. So it is necessary to run web applications to get all the potential out of it.

Conclusion

Finally, we have seen how to install Chrome OS in a virtual machine. In addition, CloudReady also provides ISO for installation on any computer. In addition, the experience provided by Chromium OS is the closest thing to Chrome OS. Not including the proprietary element. Very good, until a soon opportunity. Bye!

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The perfect Chromebook

There’s nothing perfect in the world. Things will only be the best for you if those are compatible with you. Depending on your choices and needs, you have to get the best possible Chromebook.

If you’re a budget user, then Chromebook is your right choice. The price range is huge – starting from $99 up to $1600. So, you won’t have any shortage of choice. Keep an eye on the hardware, as it’ll determine the performance and your experience with the device.

Subscribe to Google’s Experimental Channel

Chromebook comes up with Chrome OS (stable channel). Google only provides features & facilities that are proven stable and doesn’t cause any problem. This is alright for casual and average users, but if you want to be adventurous, you can shift to the experimental (Beta or Developer) channels. For expert and BRAVE users, I recommend the Canary channel. Exercise caution here, as Canary channel is highly unstable and not for everyday usage, but you’ll have immediate access to any new feature instantly.

In general, the Beta channel is quite optimal. It’s more stable (except Stable channel) than any other channels. Moreover, you’re getting all the new features pretty easily. It’s also quite a nice option for having a fun life with Chromebook.

Everyday apps

Chrome OS is a not so popular operating system to the community. However, it doesn’t lack the power for everyday usage at all. In fact, there’re lots of tools and apps available! It’s a magic of Google making Android apps available in the OS.

For everyday usage and productivity, these apps will greatly help you out with everything.

• Office suite – MS Office
• Easy notes/lists management – Keep/Evernote
• Google Drive
• Photo editors – Pixlr, Polarr or Gravity Designer
• Games – Asphalt 8, Hearthstone, Minecraft, Alto’s Adventure etc.

You’ll definitely find out more useful apps from the Google Play Store for sure.

Use Linux distros

You might not know, but you can easily use Ubuntu alongside the Chrome OS! It’s a best way to increase your productivity and enhance your Chromebook to the ultimate level.

There are 2 ways you can get Ubuntu into your Chromebook – ChrUbuntu (Ubuntu for Chromebook) and Crouton. The last one is more recommended as it’s safer and doesn’t wipe out all the data out of your Chromebook. For an in-depth setup guide, please follow the respective instructions.

Hopefully, these tricks will definitely make your Chromebook into the ultimate one for you.

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