Google advertises the Chromebook as the “always-new” computer. A laptop that updates automatically, for free, and doesn’t need long installations in order to stay updated. Is a Chromebook really “always new”, though? Does these laptops ever reach a point in which they are simply too old? Of course.
These will stay fresh and updated for longer, but that doesn’t mean Chromebooks don’t have an expiration date. As Google tries to improve the web and making Chrome more independent, Chrome’s functions will start being more demanding. The web will become more hardware intensive and certain apps will require more power.
As we know, Google is working on native app adoption for Chrome OS. Even if current Chromebooks were supported until the end of times, they will reach a point in which they can’t handle the improved web of the future. It’s simply the way technology works.
When will my Chromebook reach its end of life?
As it turns out, not only does Google know these computers will reach their end, but they can tell you when. Here are the dates:
Be sure to remember these dates are estimates for now, unless the date shows a small “2” next to it. This means only the Samsung Series 5 will reach its EOL (End of Life) on said date, which is January 2016.
It’s also important to note that, for now, these only apply to Chrome OS for Enterprise and Education customers. We can assume EOL dates will be similar for regular consumers, but only time will tell.
You mean my Chromebook is no good?!
Not at all. If we base it on the approximated dates above, most Chromebooks have a lifetime of about 4 years. That is not bad at all, and it’s far longer than I have ever kept any computer.
Most people don’t keep computers for that long, unless they buy a super high-end laptop that they want to use get all the juice out of. Unless you are buying a Chromebook Pixel, though, you are not spending much on a Chromebook.
These are some of the most affordable computers out there. We say keeping them updated for about 4 years is more than fair. What so you think?
Thanks, Jorge!
[Google]
