Google Reveals First Look at Android for PC in Action

Google Reveals First Look at Android for PC in Action

Recently, Google provided a glimpse into its upcoming hybrid platform, Aluminium OS, which integrates Android capabilities into a PC environment. This preview emerged through a leak discovered by 9to5Google, originating from the Google Issue Tracker.

Details of the Leak

A bug report involving Chrome Incognito tabs was made public, which included two screen recordings demonstrating Aluminium OS on a specific device. The leak was quickly contained by Google, yet 9to5Google captured the videos before the restriction.

Device Information

  • Device Used: HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook
  • Software Version: Confirmed as Android 16
  • Build Number: Matches the ALOS version referenced in the bug report

Key Features of Aluminium OS

The videos, later shared by Android Authority on YouTube, reveal several aspects of Aluminium OS. Users can expect a user interface that fuses elements from both ChromeOS and Android.

Interface Highlights

  • The taskbar draws inspiration from ChromeOS but with a centralized start button similar to Android.
  • A status bar appears at the top, featuring familiar Android icons for battery and Wi-Fi connection.
  • The Play Store is integrated, allowing access to familiar applications.
  • Split-screen multitasking capabilities are also showcased.

What’s Next for Aluminium OS?

While this initial look offers a taste of what to expect, it lacks a comprehensive overview of the platform’s capabilities. Android head Sameer Samat previously hinted that more information regarding Aluminium OS would be forthcoming this year. Users may need to await a formal presentation from Google for a deeper understanding of the new operating system.