TECHnalysis Research Blog Extra

May 20, 2016
Google Brings Android Apps to Chrome

By Bob O'Donnell

One of the more intriguing announcements from this year’s Google I/O revolved around bringing Android apps to ChromeOS-based devices, such as Chromebooks. Specifically, Google announced they were bringing the Google Play store and its apps and content to recent Chrome devices in an update to ChromeOS that’s expected to be available in the fall. This is an important update for Chrome because it allows devices to run applications even when not connected to the internet and, of course, dramatically expand the range of applications available. Because Android apps are designed for smartphone or tablets, they won’t necessarily work well in full-screen mode (think phone apps blown up to run on a tablet), but most Chrome users will love the additional options.

The move comes at an interesting time for Google as IDC has reported Chromebooks actually outsold Macs last quarter. While some have talked about how this update will make Chromebooks a real competitor to Windows-based notebooks, I don’t believe most potential buyers will see it that way because the apps aren’t optimized for keyboards, touchpads, mice and other unique characteristics of clamshell computing factors. Existing Chrome users and buyers will definitely appreciate the additional capability and flexibility, but most Chromebook buyers are only looking for simple, low-cost computers. For Android developers, there’s the potential of even more users but the true impact will depend on how much work is required to optimize their apps for Chrome devices. Google has said all Android apps should work (except those that require a phone number—which Google will not allow to be downloaded onto Chrome devices), but making the experience high quality could prove to be more effort than it’s worth.

Here's a link to the original column:https://techpinions.com/unpacked-the-weeks-news/45721 (Subscription required)