This article contains some of the most frequently asked questions about Chromebooks at our Micro Center stores.
Q: How are Chromebooks different from a Windows or Mac laptop?
A: Chromebooks are meant to be light, portable, and connected to the internet. They support basic functionality like email, web browsing, and document creation. However, they don’t support installing common software packages such as Microsoft Office or Adobe Photoshop. Another difference is the operating system. PCs use the Windows operating system and Apples use the Mac operating system while the Chromebooks use the Google Chrome operating system. They also utilize cloud storage as opposed to an integrated hard drive or storage device.
Q: How much storage space do Chromebooks have?
A: Generally Chromebooks will have between 16GB and 64GB of SSD storage to help with fast start up and accessibility. For storing many files, you can use an external USB hard drive, an SD card, or a USB flash drive.
Q: What type of user would a Chromebook be a good fit for?
A: Chromebooks are excellent second devices to be able to take with you where you have internet access. College students and those who wish to do work outside of the home or office will appreciate the flexibility and portability of Chromebooks.
Q: What is the Google Play Store?
A: The Google Play Store is where you can find and download a wide range of Android apps for your Chromebook.
Q: Can Chromebooks install Google Play store apps?
A: Yes, most apps on the Google Play store are compatible with Chromebooks. Some will require a touchscreen so the hardware would need to provide touchscreen capability for those apps. More information is available from Google at their website https://support.google.com/googleplay/answer/7021273?hl=en.
Q: Am I able to install programs on a Chromebook such as games, printer packages, or antivirus programs?
A: You cannot install programs designed for Windows or Mac OS on a Chromebook. You can only install apps that are available in the Google Play Store.
Q: Does iTunes work on a Chromebook?
A: Currently there is not a compatible version of iTunes for Chromebooks, but you can use other apps that are designed for use with a Chromebook such as the Google Play Music Library.
Q: Am I able to use my Microsoft Office programs on a Chromebook?
A: Yes, there is a compatible version of Microsoft Office apps for use on a Chromebook. find more information on how to install Office on a Chromebook at Microsoft's support page https://support.office.com/en-us/article/how-to-install-and-run-microsoft-office-on-a-chromebook-32f14a23-2c1a-4579-b973-d4b1d78561ad.
Q: How long will my Chromebook be eligible to receive updates?
A: Currently, Google commits to five years from the date of launch of the device.
Q: Are there Parental Control features for Chromebooks?
A: Yes, more information on Parental Controls can be found on Google's support site https://support.google.com/chromebook/answer/7680868?hl=en
Q: Am I able to install other operating systems on Chromebooks?
A: Currently there is no support for other operating systems.