Google has been quietly adding features toChrome OS, like the ability to runAndroidapps and eveninstall Linux.
These instructions apply to Chromebooks running Chrome OS 53 and above.
Once set up, your Chromebook will automatically unlock when a paired phone is nearby and unlocked.
kaboompics/Pixabay.
Your Chromebook must also be running Chrome OS 40 or later and support Bluetooth.
Navigate to the bottom right of the screen and select theStatus area.
UnderConnected devicesin the right panel, underAndroid phone, selectSet up.
verify Bluetooth is enabled on your phone, then select your phone under theSelect a equipment dropdown.
drop your Google password and selectDone.
SelectDoneagain to complete setup.
choose the newly added gear and choose the toggle next toDisabled.
type your password and selectConfirm.
Smart Lockshould be enabled.
Select either option for further customization.
Installed Android apps integrate with Chrome OS, but functionality may differ by app and gadget.
Not all Chromebooks support the Google Play Store and Android apps.
Google maintains alist of all supported Chromebooks.
SelectGoogle Play Storeand toggle it on.
In the window that opens, selectMore, read the Terms of Service, then selectI Agree.
Browse the Google Play Store and install apps as you would on an Android rig.
Updates include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features.
Before rolling these out to all users, they test them in the Chrome OS Developer and Beta channels.
As a result, these channels are considered unstable and may not be suitable for daily use.
Scroll to the bottom of the menu and selectAbout Chrome OS.
UnderChannel, selectChange channel, then select eitherBetaorDeveloper.
(Or to go back to the original setting, selectStable.)
SelectChange channelto confirm your choice.
Link Cloud Services for Easier File Management
Chromebooks typically have low storage capacity.
This is intentional, as Chromebooks are designed to be online and primarily cloud-connected.
However, there’s a way to enable this integration for other cloud storage services too.
Navigate to the shelf and openFiles.
Select thethree dotsat the top right of the window, then selectAdd new service.
Supported services will be shown in a popup window.
When you locate your chosen service, selectInstall.
In the confirmation window, selectAdd app.
This is in recognition of blue light’s potential impact on your sleep.
The Night Light feature can be scheduled in your Chromebook’s prefs.
you could also toggle the Night Light on or off at any time from the Status area.
Scroll toDevice, then selectDisplays.
UnderNight Light, use the toggle to unlock the feature.
Use the slider to adjust the Night Light’sColor temperature.
Go toNight Light>Schedule, then use the drop-down menu to selectNever,Sunset to Sunrise, orCustomized.
Powerwashing permanently erases all data on your gear.
As most Chromebook services are cloud-based, this shouldn’t be too much of a problem.
However, you should still double-check you have backed up all your data before continuing.
Scroll to the bottom of the page (if needed) and expandAdvanced options.
UnderReset tweaks, selectPowerwash.
Confirm the Powerwash by selectingRestart.
