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Google and Back Market Sell $3 ChromeOS Flex USB to Revive Aging PCs

The tiny kit gives non-technical users an easy way to keep older computers secure after Windows 10 support ended.

Overview

  • Google and refurbished retailer Back Market are offering a reusable USB stick preloaded with ChromeOS Flex for about $3 on Back Market.
  • The kit installs Google’s web-first operating system on older PCs or Macs, giving owners a simple path off unsupported Windows 10.
  • The package includes step-by-step guides and video tutorials, so users do not need to download or build the installer themselves.
  • Devices receive ongoing security updates with ChromeOS Flex, though there is no Android app support, no Google Play Store, fewer security chip features, and no Parallels Windows virtual machines.
  • Google pitches the effort as a sustainability move that extends device life, citing 19% lower energy use on average and a partnership with Closing the Loop, with GB News noting many PCs still run Windows 10.