Google will arrive on portable computers with a new evolution of Android. ChromeOS will still remain, but there are changes coming. During the MWC 2026 Sameer Samat, Android president, confirmed Aluminium OS for the last part of the year.
This official statement clarifies doubts that arose last month because of filtered judicial files. There was a possibility of delays on Aluminium OS launch for 2028. However, it seems that the 2026 date is still on.
Artificial Intelligence for portable devices and Aluminium OS
Artificial Intelligence is the main motive for Aluminium OS boost. According to Android boss, the industry had forgotten portable computers because of tablets and mobile phones. However, the arrival of AI tools requires keyboards, big screens and multitask features that suit portable computers best.
Aluminium OS is the new Goolge operating system designed for Premium users. It’s similar to Android but with several features for laptop devices. Thanks to Aluminium OS you can extract all the ARM chip power leaving Android limitations behind on big screens.
Google Pixel native desktop mode
Google strategy is pointing towards the new version of Aluminium OS. Recently Google Pixel update included a new native desktop mode. It’s a test mode for the interface that the new Aluminium operating system may include. Google used Android 16 to adjust floating windows for Android 17. This new Android version will probably be the core for the desktop version.
Interoperability is one of the pillars for the new platform. The Mountain View wants to be fluent like iPhone when communicating with Mac. The feature Handoff has been seen on Android 17 beta and it allows starting a task in the phone and continuing with it on other device. It’s a native Aluminium feature that will generate a cohesive platform to engage the users.
ChromeOS won’t disappear and that’s a surprise. At least on the short term, Aluminium won’t replace it. Google will keep both platforms and the main idea is for ChromeOS to receive more updates and support with a focus on education and enterprises.
On the other hand, the awaited Aluminium OS is the commercial spearhead for market consumption. It points directly to the fight with MacBook and Surface for the new generation devices. Which devices will Android use? It’s still unknown which devices will include Aluminium. But the future of Android for laptops is coming.