If I had known Chromebooks auto expire I never would have bought one. (2024)

FAQs

What does Chromebook auto update expiration mean? ›

Chromebooks automatically manage updates so they always have the latest features, including security updates. But because Google can only guarantee ChromeOS and browser feature support on non-Google hardware for so long, every device currently has a date on which it stops receiving updates -- its AUE date.

Once a Chromebook reaches its AUE date, it will no longer receive automatic updates, including security patches. This implies that the device may become more vulnerable to security threats as time goes on, making it less suitable for secure use.

Keep using your Chromebook

If your Chromebook is working well, you can keep using it. Just keep in mind that it won't get any more software updates. Note: If you're using your Chromebook at work or school, ask your administrator for more information about your Chromebook's auto-update policy.

Starting in 2024, ChromeOS devices will be eligible to receive automatic security updates for 10 years after their release. Chromebooks released in 2021 or later will all receive the updates; those who own older products will have the option to turn them on.

You can continue using your computer but should consider upgrading." Please note that even though you have received that message it will likely be two years or more before certain websites may not load properly due to the Chrome browser being out of date.

The expected useful lifetime for a new Chromebook is 5 years from date of release (note: release, not purchase). This is documented by Google here: End of Life policy. In other words, a Chromebook will receive Chrome OS for at least five years from the date of release.

But that lifespan wasn't extended to all devices — and earlier models were still on a time clock. Now, every Chromebook will be guaranteed to work for a decade, making the laptops' software commitments longer-lasting than any other operating system available today, according to Google.

ChromeOS devices receive 10 years of updates. With every update, your laptop becomes more secure. These improvements automatically help make your Chromebook useful even longer by providing enhanced security and stability for 10 years from the platform release date.

While they can run for years and years -- I have several over ten years still running -- officially, Google and Chromebook vendors only support them until their Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date. That used to be three to five years, then it became up to eight years for models launched in 2020 or later.

Is it worth turning an old laptop into a Chromebook? ›

There's no reason to switch. If your laptop can barely run Windows, or if it is stuck with an version of Windows earlier than 10, then converting to Chromebook might make sense. The conversion is free. Google has just announced an easy way to convert laptops into Chromebook.

Check for updates yourself

At the bottom left, select About ChromeOS. Under "Google ChromeOS," find which version of the Chrome operating system your Chromebook uses. Select Check for updates. If your Chromebook finds a software update, it will start to download automatically.

Once the AUE date arrives, your Chromebook will stop getting automatic software updates from Google; including security updates, bug fixes, and new features. The loss of updates will likely cause apps and browser extensions to stop working properly.

Chromebooks have a built-in expiration date after which Google will no longer support the software. These expiration dates are based on the certification of a given model, not the purchase date. (You can look up the expiration date for your device here.)

Do Chromebooks need antivirus software? Yes, Chromebooks need good antivirus software. Although you are likely to face fewer threats on ChromeOS than, for example, on Windows or even macOS, Chromebooks are still vulnerable.

All Chromebook platforms will get regular automatic updates for 10 years — more than any other operating system commits to today. We're also working with partners to build Chromebooks with more post-consumer recycled materials (PCR), and rolling out new, power-efficient features and quicker processes to repair them.

Chromebooks, Chromebases, and Chromeboxes automatically manage updates so that your device has the latest software and security features. To check your update schedule: At the bottom right, select the time. Settings .

Go to Device update settings. Click Auto-update settings. Select Block updates. Click Save.