Google appears to be preparing for a major resurgence in the PC market with Android. Reports citing a now-deleted LinkedIn job posting indicate that Google is developing a new operating system codenamed "Aluminium OS" (AlOS), based on the Android architecture. This plan not only signifies Google's renewed ambition in the PC market but also reveals its intention to replace the existing Chrome OS with this new system in the long term, with AI at its core.
"AI-centric" and targeting the high-end market
According to an earlier leaked job posting for a "Senior Product Manager for Android, Laptops, and Tablets" (with the hiring location in Taiwan), Google is pushing forward with the development of "Chrome OS and the Aluminium platform." The new system will technically revert to Android, echoing earlier statements from Android head Sameer Samat.Regarding the statement "Retaining the Chrome OS interface, but integrating with Android at the underlying level"..
More importantly, Aluminium OS, like Google's Android XR for head-mounted devices, will emphasize an "AI at the core" design philosophy. Furthermore, Google seems determined to shed the past image of Chromebooks as inexpensive and primarily for the education market, clearly shifting its development focus to "Premium" devices and experiences.
Supports laptops, tablets, and set-top boxes, offering diverse hardware options.
The job posting also reveals that the hardware lineup supported by Aluminium OS will be quite extensive. The team is required to build a product portfolio covering a variety of form factors, including:
• Laptops
• Detachable devices (i.e., 2-in-1)
• Tablets
• Boxes:Mini computers similar to Mac Mini or Google Chromebox
The product tiers will also be further divided into entry-level (AL Entry), mass-market premium (AL Mass Premium), and top-of-the-line (AL Premium) versions, signifying Google's ambition to dominate the market across all price segments.
Will Chrome OS be phased out?
While Google initially seemed to intend for Chrome OS and Aluminium OS to coexist, the job description explicitly mentions the need to develop a strategy and product roadmap for the transition from Chrome OS to Aluminium, and to ensure business continuity. This strongly suggests that Chrome OS will face retirement in the long term.
It remains uncertain whether existing Chromebook devices will be able to upgrade to Aluminium OS in the future, or if they will only be able to maintain their current system until support ends. However, Google has confirmed that this new operating system project, codenamed Aluminium, is expected to officially launch in 2026.
