How to get Google Play Store on ChromeOS Flex

ChromeOS Flex, while versatile, doesn’t come preloaded with the Google Play Store. If you’re eager to enhance your ChromeOS Flex experience by accessing the Google Play Store, this step-by-step guide will help you seamlessly install ChromeOS on your PC. I’ll walk you through the process with detailed instructions and accompanying images.

Base Requirements

Before we dive into the installation process, ensure your system meets the following requirements:

• x86_64 based computer with UEFI boot support.
• Administrative privileges on the device.
• A basic understanding of the Linux terminal.

While this guide aims to simplify the process, familiarity with the basics is recommended.

CPU Compatibility:

Check if your CPU is compatible with ChromeOS Flex:

• Supported Intel CPUs: Haswell (4th Gen) and above, Celeron CPUs from Braswell.
• Supported AMD CPUs: Ryzen.

Unsupported Hardware

• Older Intel/AMD CPUs.
• Dedicated GPUs (dGPUs).
• Virtual Machines.
• ARM CPUs.

Downloading ChromeOS Recovery image

Follow these steps to download the appropriate ChromeOS Recovery image for your processor:

• Intel 1st Gen to 9th Gen – Rammus
• Intel 10th and 11th gen – Volteer
• AMD – Stoney Ridge and Bristol Ridge – Grunt
• AMD Ryzen – Zork

Remember: Ensure your laptop has an integrated GPU for ChromeOS to function properly.

After downloading the file to your ChromeOS Flex, double tap to the file and check the mount folder and copy the ChromeOS .bin file to the download folder.

Installing ChromeOS

Follow these steps to install ChromeOS on your PC:

• Open the Chrome browser and search for “Chromebook Recovery Utility.”

• Install the Chromebook Recovery Utility extension.
• Open the Chromebook Recovery Utility and click the right-side settings icon.

• Select “Use local image” and choose the downloaded file ‘.bin.’

• Insert your pen drive into the PC and click “Continue.”

• Wait for 15-20 minutes until the process completes.

• After completion, reboot your PC to the boot menu and select the pen drive.
• It will take long time wait.

• One the setup screen, press Ctrl + Alt + F2 to open a Chrome OS command.
• Enter the commands:

root

sudo resize-data

• Wait for the automatic restart.
• Upon restarting, press the button to return to the boot menu, select the pen drive again, and complete the Google account setup.
• Once on the ChromeOS home screen, press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the ChromeOS command prompt.

• Enter the commands:

shell

sudo fdisk -l

sudo chromeos-install -dst /dev/sda

• Type ‘yes’ and press enter to initiate the installation.
• Wait for 15-20 minutes for the ChromeOS installation to complete.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed ChromeOS on your PC, and now you can enjoy the benefits of having the Google Play Store on your ChromeOS Flex device.

Disclaimer: Ensure that your system meets the requirements outlined in the article before proceeding. While the provided instructions aim to facilitate an easy and safe installation, it’s important to note that this method is unofficial and not endorsed by Google. Prioritize the backup of your hard disk to safeguard against potential data loss or system issues. Follow the instructions at your own discretion, and be aware that any modifications are done at your own risk.

Conclusion

In conclusion unlocking the Google Play Store on your ChromeOS Flex opens up a world of possibilities for apps and games, enhancing the functionality of your device. This guide, accompanied by step-by-step instructions, is designed to make the installation process accessible even for those with limited technical expertise.

Remember, while we’ve done our best to simplify the process, always exercise caution and ensure you have a backup of your data before proceeding with any system modifications.