Tag: Aluminium OS

  • Google Aluminium OS Leak: Android Alternative to Windows & macOS

    Google Aluminium OS Leak: Android Alternative to Windows & macOS

    Key Takeaways

    1. Aluminium OS, codenamed “ALOS,” is Google’s new desktop version of Android, built on Android 16.
    2. The operating system features an optimized interface for larger screens, including a taller taskbar and a new menu bar displaying battery and WiFi status.
    3. Users can manage windows similar to Chrome OS, with options to minimize, maximize, and close apps easily.
    4. Aluminium OS allows flexible window positioning and resizing, enhancing user experience on Chromebooks.
    5. While the release date is unclear, internal testing suggests that Aluminium OS may soon replace Chrome OS on Chromebooks.


    Google’s Chromium Issue Tracker has shared fresh insights about Google’s Aluminium OS, but access to this part of the site has since been restricted. Fortunately, 9to5Google managed to capture and release the information and videos just in time. The report states that these videos were recorded on an HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook running “ALOS,” which is the internal codename for Aluminium OS, the desktop version of Android developed by Google.

    Features and Specifications

    This operating system is built on Android 16, as shown by data in Google Chrome. Aluminium OS has been optimized for larger screens when compared to the desktop version of Android 16. It features a taller taskbar and a new menu bar that shows details like battery levels, WiFi status, and active background tasks such as screen recording.

    The interface of Google Chrome varies from the Android desktop edition, including an extensions button located beside the address bar. Window management is reminiscent of Chrome OS, where you find buttons for minimize, maximize, and close features in the top right corner, while the name of the app is displayed on the upper left.

    User Experience

    Users can position windows anywhere on the screen, as well as resize them or utilize a full-screen view. Although the launch date for Aluminium OS remains uncertain, Google’s internal testing of a working version based on Android 16 indicates that a release might be on the horizon. This new operating system is anticipated to take the place of Chrome OS on Chromebooks. It is yet to be seen if Google’s new software will attract more users away from Apple and Microsoft.

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  • Google’s Aluminium OS: New Details on Android-Based Desktop OS

    Google’s Aluminium OS: New Details on Android-Based Desktop OS

    Key Takeaways

    1. Google is entering the desktop operating system market with the project codename Aluminium OS, developed in collaboration with Qualcomm.
    2. Aluminium OS aims to merge ChromeOS and Android to compete with iPadOS, with upgrades expected for many eligible Chromebook devices.
    3. The new OS will be ‘AI first’ and integrate strongly with Google Gemini, targeting competition with Windows Copilot devices.
    4. Aluminium OS is expected to be compatible with various device types, including laptops, tablets, mini-PCs, and detachables.
    5. A reveal at Google I/O is likely, with the anticipated launch of Aluminium OS projected for 2026.


    Earlier this year, we first saw signs of Google’s entry into the desktop operating system realm. Qualcomm is set to assist Google in this venture, leading to devices powered by Snapdragon X that will run Android. Recently, Android Authority has discovered more details about this initiative.

    The Project’s Name and Purpose

    The project has been given the codename Aluminium OS, aimed at merging ChromeOS and Android to create a competitor to iPadOS. The future of Chrome OS looks unclear, but it seems that most devices that qualify will likely get an upgrade. Testing is underway for Chromebooks featuring Alder Lake and MediaTek Kompanio processors, which might be among the first to receive this new system. Furthermore, users who prefer sticking with Chrome OS will have the option to continue using it.

    Features and Compatibility

    Aluminium OS is described as an ‘AI first’ operating system, featuring strong integration with Google Gemini, and is expected to rival Copilot devices from Windows. The final name of the OS remains undecided. However, it is anticipated to be compatible with a broader range of devices, including laptops, tablets, mini-PCs, and even ‘detachables’. In terms of a release timeline, it’s projected to launch sometime in 2026. Since the project is approaching its final stages, a reveal at Google I/O seems probable, followed by a complete launch soon after.

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