Google Aluminium OS Launch Delayed Until 2028: What You Need to Know

Google’s highly anticipated Aluminium OS, the merger of Android and ChromeOS, will not arrive until 2028, documents from the company’s antitrust proceedings reveal. This delay contradicts earlier public statements hinting at a 2026 release, leaving users and businesses waiting longer than expected. Meanwhile, ChromeOS will continue to receive support through 2034, far beyond previous projections.

The revelations highlight a significant gap between Google’s internal timelines and what was shared publicly, raising questions about transparency and planning for the new platform.

Court Documents Reveal the Delay

During antitrust hearings, internal Google documents indicated that Aluminium OS, previously expected to launch in 2026, will now see a broader rollout in 2028. Trusted commercial testers may gain access as early as late 2026, but wider adoption by businesses, schools, and consumers is still two years away.

Android chief Sameer Samat’s statements at the September 2025 Snapdragon Summit caused confusion. While he suggested the merger would arrive "next year," court testimony clarified that Google “hopes” to launch in 2026, rather than promising it. This discrepancy underscores the tension between public messaging and internal project realities.

What Aluminium OS Means for Users

Aluminium OS is designed to unify Android and ChromeOS, creating a single platform across laptops, tablets, desktops, and other devices. Google’s plans involve collaboration with Qualcomm to produce Arm-based PC chips optimized for the platform, aiming for smoother performance and extended device compatibility.

For end users, this merger promises a more consistent and integrated ecosystem. Apps and services should run seamlessly across device types, simplifying updates, security, and usability. However, the delay means consumers and enterprises will need to rely on ChromeOS and Android separately for several more years.

ChromeOS Support Extended Through 2034

Another key revelation from the court documents is the extension of ChromeOS support to 2034. This move ensures long-term stability for businesses and educational institutions that have invested in ChromeOS devices. The extension also provides a safety net while Aluminium OS undergoes testing and phased rollout, giving users time to prepare for the platform transition.

Extended support also emphasizes Google’s commitment to its existing ecosystem, even as it pushes toward a unified operating system. Users can continue using ChromeOS without fearing premature obsolescence, a reassurance for large-scale deployments in classrooms and enterprises.

Why Google’s Timeline Shift Matters

The Aluminium OS delay reflects broader challenges in merging two major platforms while maintaining backward compatibility and enterprise readiness. By showing the difference between public expectations and internal plans, the documents highlight how tech giants manage communication around major product launches.

For investors, developers, and users, understanding these shifts is critical. Businesses planning device upgrades or software integration must adjust their timelines, while developers need to anticipate new APIs and platform requirements once Aluminium OS becomes available.

What to Expect

Google’s focus now appears to be on controlled testing in 2026, followed by phased commercial releases leading up to 2028. While uncertainty remains around the final features and performance, Aluminium OS represents a major step toward a single, unified operating system for Google devices.

For consumers and enterprises alike, patience will be key. ChromeOS longevity through 2034 offers reassurance, but excitement for Aluminium OS will continue building as testing progresses and the platform moves closer to its full debut.