Google may merge ChromeOS with Android to compete with the iPad: Report

Chrome OS Android

Chrome OS is a separate operating system (OS) from Google that is used to power its Chromebooks. Since its inception in 2011, the OS has come a long way from being just a web-based OS and now is powering millions of devices globally. However, ChromeOS’ growth trajectory hasn’t improved much as it still has less than 3% of the total users, and according to a new report, Google is planning to embark on a project to fully turn ChromeOS into Android to develop a product that finally competes with the iPad.

Google could kill ChromeOS

According to a new report by Android Authority, Google plans to merge ChromeOS into Android for the development of a hybrid platform that may compete with Apple's iPadOS, which powers the iPad. It is part of its efforts for more efficient management of engineering resources and better compete with the iPad, by providing a more unified operating system.

Instead of merging Android and Chrome OS to develop an entirely new platform, the report claims that this move will result in the availability of more apps on Android and more money for developers due to an increased number of users. This merger could also create a truly powerful and unique platform for low-end laptops or tablets that could finally give Apple a run for its money.

One of the first devices to run on this hybrid platform could be the Pixel Laptop, which could come with high-end internals. The report mentions that it has currently been codenamed “Snowy,” and Google aims to provide improved features on it to give a desktop-like experience, similar to iPadOS.