Chromebooks Get More Useful With Elementary OS Beta

Not that a Chromebook isn't in itself useful enough for the masses, but the team behind the Linux-based operating system Elementary OS are aiming to make functionality easy. Using an installation format called "ChromeeOS", users will be able to boot into either Chrome OS or Elementary OS whenever they like.

Several Chromebooks have been tested and verified by the creators of this software. The Acer C720 has been tested and given a thumbs-up. The HP Chromebook 14 is untested physically but has been given a thumbs-up by the team because of its similarities with the Acer C720 profile. An ASUS Panther Chromebox has also been tested and verified.

To make this install work for your Chromebook or Chromebox, you'll want to head to the GitHub guide listed just this afternoon. If you want to become a tester, more power to you. If you're inexperienced in this sort of install, please stick to those devices that are listed in their "Supported Devices" section only.

Once you're up and running, this software shouldn't look all that different from what you're seeing in the demonstration above. Remember that Elementary OS is a BETA, and that this install is even less likely to be fully functional than its install base on Mac or PC. Have fun, and don't say we didn't warn you!

Thanks for the tip, Paul!