Just a few hours ago the Chrome release blog updated and version 58 began making its way to Chromebooks and Chrome devices around the world. The long and short of it is that the Google Play Store and Android Apps did not come along for the ride.
As disappointing as this is I won’t say I was completely surprised. It was our sincere hope and even believe that we would see the long-overdue Play Store packaged with 58. On the other hand, I can see multiple, good reasons why it was not. I’ll cover more on that tomorrow. For now, let’s just take a look at what’s new with Chrome OS.
For starters, there is a rather large list of devices excluded from the latest update. If you are the proud owner of Acer Chromebase 24, Acer Chromebook R11, AOpen Chromebase Mini, AOpen Chromebox Mini, Google Chromebook Pixel (2015), ASUS Chromebook Flip C100PA, Dell Chromebook 11 (3120), Lenovo ThinkPad 11e Chromebook or Samsung Chromebook Plus you are stuck with Chrome OS 57 for the time being.
The majority of those devices already have Android Apps in the Stable channel. The remainder could be delayed due to kernel compatibility issues or one of a dozen other reasons. For the rest of us, here are some highlights from the Chrome release blog.
- Get Help: Customization option for Contact Support URL
- New policy to improve timezone detection on cellular devices
- Updated out-of-box-experience design.
As with most updates, this one contained a number of security patches and bug fixes. Access to these bug reports is not always public for the security of the operating system. One patch announced was specific to the Broadcom Wifi SoC. You can read more about it here.
That’s about it in a nutshell As lack-luster as it may be, I am sure there is more to be dissected from this update and I will be digging in tonight to bring you whatever I can find. Check back soon. We have a lot of great stuff coming this week including some exclusive devices you won’t find anywhere else.