Chrome OS's Linux integration exits beta in next OS update

Chromebooks have become versatile little machines over the past several years, and one excellent tool is finally leaving Beta. Chrome OS’s Linux integration will finally become a fully-fledged feature with the next update.

Chromebook fans may be familiar with Linux on Chrome OS. With essentially the flip of a switch, a Chromebook can run native Linux software via a terminal or windowed environment. We’ve tested the feature in Chromebook reviews and found it to be a nice addition that greatly expands the usability of the plucky laptops.

Now, Linux integration will finally leave beta development in Chrome OS 91, making the feature available in the Stable channel of Chrome OS. New features coming to Linux on Chrome OS with the update include a new terminal app, improved USB support, port forwarding, and synchronous updates between the operating system and the Linux container installed on the Chromebook. (In the past, the Linux container would independently update roughly 10-15 minutes after an OS update.)

Linux’s push into the Stable channel on Chrome OS should widen the use and development of the feature, which should result in faster and more useful improvements over time.

Future updates to Chrome OS will also include support for Android 11 and a dark mode.

What are your thoughts about Linux on Chrome OS? Have you used the feature? Let us know in the comments. 

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