You can test the latest features of the Chrome operating system (OS) by switching to a more experimental software channel. Chrome OS has 3 different software channels:
- Stable channel: This channel is fully tested by the Chrome OS team, and is the best choice to avoid crashes and other problems. It's updated roughly every 2-3 weeks for minor changes, and every 6 weeks for major changes.
- Beta channel: If you want to see upcoming changes and improvements with low risk, use the Beta channel. It's updated roughly every week, with major updates coming every 6 weeks, more than a month before the Stable channel gets them.
- Dev channel: If you want to see the latest Chrome OS features, use the Dev channel. The Dev channel gets updated once or twice weekly. While this build is tested, it might have bugs, as we want people to see what's new as soon as possible.
Note: You'll need to be the device owner to switch channels. If you're using your device at work or school, you might not be able to switch channels. To find your device's owner account, see Related articles.
Check which channel you're using
- If you haven't yet, sign in to your device.
- In the bottom right, select the time.
- Select Settings
- At the bottom of the left panel, select About Chrome OS.
- Select Detailed build information.
- Next to "Channel," you'll see the channel your device is using (Stable, Beta, or Dev).
Change channel
Warning: Switching from an experimental channel to a more stable channel will delete everything from your device, like downloaded files, photos, owner permissions, and saved networks for all accounts. You'll need to sign in with your Google Account again.
- Sign in to your device with the owner account.
- In the bottom right, select the time to open the status area.
- Select Settings
- At the bottom of the left panel, select About Chrome OS.
- Select Detailed build information.
- Next to "Channel," select Change channel.
- Pick a channel.
- Select Change Channel.
- If you're switching to a more experimental channel (Beta or Dev), your device will start to download an update, then ask you to restart your device.
- If you're switching to a more stable channel (Stable or Beta), select Change channel and Powerwash. When the update installs, click Relaunch and Powerwash. Everything will be deleted from your device, and you'll need to sign in with your Google Account again.
Note: If you're using your device at work or school, and you switch from Dev to Beta or Beta to Stable, your device won't update right away. Your software will update when your new, more stable software version matches the version that's already installed on your device. Your apps, data, and settings won't be deleted.