The latest update to Chrome OS – Stable channel 69.0.3497.95 – has added a host of new features built in, including bringing the Linux Beta option which has been present as Project Crosstini on Dev and Beta channel to supported devices on the Stable Channel offering access to Linux based apps and functionality.
Back when Chromebooks first hit the retail market, it didn’t take long for developers to figure out the pathway to get Ubuntu on their machines via Crouton, but Linux Beta support adds support for a far higher level, allowing you to run Linux apps from containers with the additional functionality available through a couple of very simple steps:
- Go to Chrome OS Settings
- Open the Linux Beta Tab
- Turn on the functionality
The download will take a while, even on a decent connection but adds a great deal of functionality and the ability to add Linux applications to your device. Even if it’s only to get access to a handful of favourites, its quick simple and well worth the effort.
Among the other updates and features added are the usual security updates, some fixes and functionality additions for Chrome OS tablets and a host of other improvements which (on my Chromebook and current review Chromebox) has improved performance noticeably.
The full change log for Chrome OS is available here
There was already a lot to like with Chrome OS, but with further functionality being added that requires less technical nous to access – it’s continuing to get better.
What functionality needs to be added to Chrome OS for you to accept it as a daily driver?
