Google Offers Free ChromeOS Flex Upgrade for Legacy Windows PCs

Google has teamed with refurbisher Back Market to provide a free operating-system upgrade for older Windows PCs that cannot meet Windows 11’s TPM 2.0 requirement. The upgrade is delivered via a USB kit containing a reusable SSD and the ChromeOS Flex image; hardware costs $3, while OS is free forever. The kits are out of stock, and users can submit their email on Back Market’s site to be notified when inventory returns.

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Microsoft ended mainstream support for Windows 10, leaving only an Extended Security Update (ESU) that expires in October 2026. Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0, a hardware module absent from many older PCs, preventing their upgrade without new hardware.

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Google cites “hundreds of millions” of Windows users facing a “difficult decision” between buying hardware or staying on an unsupported system. Back Market estimates 500 million PCs lack technical capacity for Windows 11. StatCounter reports Windows 10’s market share fell below 30 % in April 2026, down from 53 % a year earlier.

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Google describes the program as a “fast, secure and free operating system” that “demystifies” the migration for non-technical users. Back Market confirms the upgrade is “completely free, no subscription, no trial, no hidden costs,” and that the $3 USB fee covers a reusable SSD. Both stress extending the useful life of aging hardware.

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Analysts note the out-of-stock USB kits limit immediate access for many users. The self-install option is described as “harder,” potentially deterring non-technical owners. Moreover, the absence of an updated count of affected devices creates uncertainty about the program’s overall reach.

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The 500 million figure has not been refreshed in recent data, and the exact number of PCs that will lose ESU protection by October remains unspecified, leaving a gap in precise metrics.

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• “Hundreds of millions” of Windows users have been left with a “difficult decision,” Google warns.” — Google spokesperson

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• “Spend hundreds on a new device, or continue using an insecure, outdated one.” — Google spokesperson

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• “Yes, completely. No subscription, no trial, no hidden costs. Free forever.” — Back Market representative

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• “ChromeOS Flex can be a complete game-changer and keep your old devices running, with Back Market now selling USBs that come with this operating system.” — Back Market representative

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Back Market plans to restock the USB kits, with email sign-ups receiving notifications. The ESU deadline in October 2026 approaches, prompting TechRepublic to advise users to transition promptly. Google will continue providing tutorials and support throughout the migration.

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