Google's heavy-handed ad pushes Chromebook Plus as an alternative to a Windows 10 laptop - but I don't think it's fair

As Windows 10 support ends, Google thinks you should switch to ChromeOS

TechRadar
Chrome OS Flex as a Windows replacement

Windows is becoming less favorable as an OS daily driver for many users. Windows has recently faced various issues, ranging from complete system crashes to invasive privacy leaks. As users look for alternatives, many wonder if Chrome OS Flex is powerful enough to be a viable alternative.

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favorites new tab page - Does anyone else think this extension is amazing?

it feels native. its fast. you don't have to import anything because it uses your existing bookmarks, but in a much more user friendly grid view. I wish I had known about this extension when I got my chromebook a few years ago. but i never stumbled upon it until recently, and I just feel like I want to spread the word about it. I feel like, as chromeOS is somewhat lacking in the "launcher" department, I feel like this is just, amazing. I don't know why its not at the top of the charts and why its not a featured extension.

here's the link:

https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/favorites-new-tab-page/kjkbcegjfanmgocnecnngfcmmojheiam

PS. if you want a dark background, here's what you do

right click > settings > theme and choose a theme where the background is black (High Contrast Colorful)

under theme, click "Background", click "color" and use the color picker to select black, so its easier on the eyes, giving it a nice night mode / dark theme.

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Favorites - New Tab Page - Chrome Web Store

A new tab page with your favorite bookmarks.

Chatgpt response:

"It does seem like ChromeOS is constrained in a way that prevents it from reaching its full potential as a versatile operating system. While Google's emphasis on a lightweight, secure, and user-friendly environment is commendable, it does limit the kind of software that can be run, especially compared to Windows.

Here are some points that highlight your concerns:

1. **Limited Software Installation**: ChromeOS primarily supports web and Android apps, which can feel limiting compared to the vast array of desktop applications available on Windows. Opening up ChromeOS to support more robust software could indeed make it a more compelling option for many users.

2. **Monopoly Issues**: Google’s control over ChromeOS and the built-in Chrome browser does raise questions about monopolistic practices. Allowing more browser choices and making it easier to install alternative software could address these concerns.

3. **Market Share and Innovation**: Google might be intentionally keeping ChromeOS in a niche market to avoid antitrust scrutiny. However, the lack of aggressive market expansion and innovation leaves many potential improvements untapped, frustrating users who see the potential in Chromebooks.

4. **Past Innovation**: Google’s early 2000s era was marked by significant innovations like Gmail and Android. There’s a sense that this spirit of bold, user-driven development has diminished.

For those looking to push the boundaries of their Chromebooks, projects like **Crostini** (Linux on ChromeOS) and **Lacros** (a new Chrome browser architecture) offer some potential. However, they still don’t fully bridge the gap between ChromeOS and a more open operating system like Windows or traditional Linux distributions.

Your frustrations resonate with many who see the potential for Chromebooks to be more than just "wifi typewriters." It would indeed be exciting to see Google rekindle its innovative spirit and bring more flexibility and power to ChromeOS."

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