The success that Google has had with Android cannot be questioned, since it has managed to position the platform as one of the most used in mobile devices (smartphones, tablets, TV and wearables), while On the desk side it seems that ChromeOS has not managed to stand out as much as Google would like.
It is because of that Google may be considering a change strategic in replacing Chrome OS with a new Android-based implementation, according to information leaked to Android Authority.
It is mentioned that this movement iwould imply deep integration from both platforms, Removing Chrome OS as a standalone system and reimagining it as an interface on top of Android. As such, Google is said to be looking to strengthen its position in the market for optimized portable devices, competing with Apple's iPads.
Besides it Intentions to unify work teams are mentioned, since currently the coexistence of two operating systems (Chrome OS and Android) implies a dispersion of engineering and development efforts, and by focusing on a single platform, Google could focus resources on improving user experience and compatibility Of applications.
It is because of that The idea of ​​an Android-based system, more mature in terms of applications and mobile ecosystem, is being raised, might be more effective for this purpose, as such, Chrome OS is based on a Linux-like architecture, with a tailored kernel, Gentoo Linux tools, and a focus on web applications using Chrome.
Chrome OS supports Android and Linux apps thanks to the use of virtual machines through the CrosVM hypervisor, but, if instead of building on the Chrome OS architecture, The new implementation will use Android as a base. This would simplify integration with Google's mobile ecosystem and allow Chrome OS's core functionality to be maintained through an interface layer on top of Android rather than using virtual machines.
At present, Android 15 includes a desktop mode which enables a more Chrome OS-like experience, with multiple windows, a taskbar, and advanced functionality for devices with large screens. This could replicate, and even surpass, the current capabilities of Chrome OS.
On the other hand, it is mentioned that Google could introduce the new implementation gradually, displacing Chrome OS on new devices, such as Chromebooks, as it is speculated that a new Pixel laptop will be the first device with this hybrid platform.
By making the change to base the platform on Android, Chromebooks will gain more fluid access to the extensive Android app ecosystem, eliminating compatibility issues and taking advantage of a broader user and developer base. This change could pave the way for a new generation of hybrid devices that combine features of laptops and tablets, with a more uniform user experience between mobile phones and computers.
With regards to other side of the coin to replace Chrome OS with Android, there is a possibility that friction could arise, especially among users and organizations that rely on the current system.
Also In the current way Android is used for the desktop, it leaves a lot to be desired, As it requires optimization, it also needs refinements to match the fluid and mature experience of Chrome OS in productivity environments.
In addition to this, for the topic of applications, although having Android as the base of the system opens up a large folder of available applications, the reality is that currently the applications designed for Android versus desktop applications, those of Android are far below the expected performance in productivity environments.
While porting Android to Chrome OS is not a bad idea, Google does need to take into account many factors, including polishing a desktop environment, features, app ecosystem (for desktop), and more.
Finally, if you are interested in knowing more about it, I invite you to consult the original publication In the following link.