It may sound strange, but for users of older Chromebooks, it could be a blessing. Inside the Chrome browser is a Linux distribution called Chrome OS. Kent Duke, a Chrome OS researcher, found that Google is splitting the browser and the operating system into two separate entries.
Why does this matter to us? Every Chromebook also has an expiration date – the Automatic Updates Expiration Date (AUE). This date is six and a half years after the release of that particular Chromebook. You can find the date for your device by going to the Update Schedule section in your Chrome OS settings . You’ll find it under the About Chrome OS section, in the Additional details menu.
Six and a half years is a long time, but Chromebooks, thanks to their very good construction, can have a longer lifespan.
Duke pointed out the following:
Currently, Chrome is inextricably linked to Chrome OS, which means that Google has to create and ship a single, comprehensive update package. While that’s not a problem in itself , the biggest problem arises when a Chromebook reaches the end of its life . Just like an Android phone , when a Chromebook reaches AUE, Chrome OS will stop updating as well. Missing a Chrome OS update means that Chrome itself won’t update, either, which leaves the browser exposed and vulnerable .
Duke continued: “Since this ‘Chrome binary’ will be distributed separately from Chrome OS, Google will be able to easily update the browser independently of the operating system. This means that even if your Chromebook reaches AUE, your browser will receive the latest updates from Google.”
What does this actually mean for you? That you can use your old Chromebook safely!
