Chromebooks now with 10 years of support

Google has announced a big change for Chromebooks that could help them last a few years longer. Starting in 2024, ChromeOS devices will be eligible for automatic security updates for up to 10 years after their release. Chromebooks released in 2021 or later will receive all updates. Owners of older devices will have the option to manually select individual updates.

The company currently provides eight years of automatic updates for Chromebooks. But that period starts when the company certifies the Chromebook, not when it's actually in the owner's hands. Because of the time it takes for schools and businesses to purchase, receive, set up, and deploy new computer systems, they typically only get four to five years of real life from Chromebooks.

A report titled “Chromebook Churn,” published by the US-based Education Fund in the Public Interest, has sparked a major debate about the environmental impact of ChromeOS in the education sector. It estimates that “doubling the lifespan of Chromebooks could save taxpayers $1.8 billion.” While two extra years isn’t doubling, it’s certainly a step in the right direction, potentially leading to significant savings and a reduction in e-waste.

Google also states in its press release that “Chromebooks still have strong built-in security features, even if they no longer receive automatic updates.”

Google says it's also rolling out updates to its Chromebook repair program that will allow technicians to perform software repairs without a physical USB key. The company estimates this will speed up repairs by "more than 50%."

In the coming months, additional features will be available to improve energy efficiency, including adaptive charging to maintain battery health and a new power saving mode.