Unlock Your Chromebook With an Android Smartphone
You can unlock your Chromebook with a password or PIN code, but Google has developed another option too: unlocking your Chromebook with your Android smartphone. Once set up, your Chromebook will automatically unlock when a paired phone is nearby and unlocked.
Enable the Google Play Store to Install Android Apps
Google’s two operating systems, Chrome OS and Android, haven’t always played well together. However, Google has begun merging the two by adding the Google Play Store and Android app support to a range of Chromebooks. Installed Android apps integrate with Chrome OS, but functionality may differ by app and device.
Switch to the Beta or Developer Channel for the Latest Features
As Chrome OS is based on the Chrome web browser, it follows a similar, frequent update schedule. Updates include bug fixes, performance improvements, and new features. Before rolling these out to all users, they test them in the Chrome OS Developer and Beta channels.
Link Cloud Services for Easier File Management
Chromebooks typically have low storage capacity. This is intentional, as Chromebooks are designed to be online and primarily cloud-connected. The tight integration with Google Drive means you can access your Drive storage directly from the Files app. However, there’s a way to enable this integration for other cloud storage services too.
Enable Night Light for a Better Night’s Sleep
Like many other operating systems, Chrome OS can automatically change the color of your Chromebook’s display. This is in recognition of blue light’s potential impact on your sleep. The Night Light feature can be scheduled in your Chromebook’s settings. You can also toggle the Night Light on or off at any time from the Status area.
Factory Reset Your Chromebook With Powerwash
Computers get slow over time, and your Chromebook is no exception. If you want to make your Chromebook run like new again or reset it before giving it away, you can use the Powerwash feature.
