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USB Stick Revives Old Laptops for $3
4 Mar
Summary
- USB sticks will enable installation of ChromeOS Flex on older computers.
- The revival tool costs $3 with no recurring monthly fees.
- The initiative aims to reduce e-waste by extending device lifespans.
Google has partnered with Back Market, a marketplace for refurbished technology, to offer a new solution for older computers. As of March 30, 2026, Back Market will sell USB sticks for $3 each, enabling users to install ChromeOS Flex on compatible Windows and Intel-powered Mac devices.
This initiative is designed to combat electronic waste by providing a lifeline to older PCs and laptops. ChromeOS Flex is a cloud-centric operating system that can run on existing hardware, offering a renewed user experience without the need for expensive upgrades or dealing with unsupported operating systems like Windows 10.
The partnership was announced at the Slow Tech Uprising summit in Barcelona. While ChromeOS Flex offers a similar experience to ChromeOS on Chromebooks, it notably lacks Android app support and is not compatible with Apple's M-series silicon. The rising cost of computer hardware, driven by shortages, makes this affordable solution particularly relevant.
