Chrome OS slated to merge with Android

Google is now officially set to consolidate two of its best-known operating systems soon. The move might ensure that Chromebook users can benefit from the best features of Android, while smartphone owners might be able to do things like run Linux apps on their handsets. 

The merger is reportedly confirmed in the course of a TechRadar interview by Google's Android Ecosystem division president Sameer Samat. 

It might indeed be the next logical step on from milestones such as the successful Chrome OS port for Pixel-series devices and support for Linux via virtual machine as a new feature on the latest major upgrade to Android.

The executive hinted that the hybrid OS might mainly affect Chromebooks and how they are used, although it might manifest in the form of changes such as a more effective desktop experience on smartphones. 

It is also projected to act as Google's ultimate answer to Apple's iPhone/Mac/iPad ecosystem 'magic'. Then again, Samat did not mention an exact timeline for the upcoming OS "combination".