Google is reportedly planning to merge its two operating systems, Android and Chrome OS, into a unified platform, according to a new report.
This ambitious multi-year project aims to transform Chrome OS into Android, creating a seamless experience across tablets and laptops. The move is seen as part of Google’s strategy to compete more effectively with Apple’s iPad.
Currently, Android excels in media consumption, while Chrome OS is preferred for productivity. However, neither platform has managed to combine both strengths effectively.
This merger could resolve those limitations by offering a cohesive experience for users and developers alike. It would simplify app development, ensuring better compatibility for Android apps on larger screens and Chrome OS devices.
Rumors of a unified system have been circulating for years, but recent updates suggest Google is now taking concrete steps. For instance, Chrome OS has already adopted Android’s Bluetooth stack and plans to use its Linux kernel.
Future Chromebooks may run a new version of Android with enhanced desktop-like features such as multi-window support, keyboard and mouse optimization, and external monitor capabilities.
While the project is still years away from completion, its implications could reshape the tablet and laptop markets. A unified Android OS could finally offer a viable alternative to Apple’s ecosystem, addressing key user and developer pain points in the process.