Chrome OS hacker Hexxeh has released a port of Google’s Chrome OS for the MacBook Air. Chromium is the open source version of Google’s Chrome OS, and Hexxeh managed to get it running on his MacBook Air.
According to Hexxeh, the MacBook Air takes around 22 seconds to boot into Google’s Chrome OS. This impressive boot time is achieved by installing the OS directly onto the MacBook Air’s SSD. Hexxeh has also configured his MacBook Air to dual boot with OS X and Google’s Chrome OS, providing the flexibility to switch between the two operating systems as needed.
I’ve only tested this on an 11″ model of the Air (MacbookAir3,1), since that’s all I have, but I should think it’d work without issue on the 13″ version (MacbookAir3,2) too. I’ve also not tested previous generations of the Macbook Air, but I suspect they’ll work too. Infact, this image will probably work on quite a number of nVidia-based Macbook/Macbook Pro machines. I won’t be supporting anything but the MacbookAir3,1 and MacbookAir3,2 but if it just happens to work for you on something else, great!
Technical Details and Compatibility
Hexxeh’s port of Chromium OS to the MacBook Air is a significant achievement, especially considering the hardware differences between typical Chrome OS devices and Apple’s MacBook Air. The MacBook Air models tested (MacbookAir3,1 and MacbookAir3,2) are equipped with nVidia graphics, which likely contributed to the successful port. The installation process involves creating a bootable USB drive with Chromium OS and then installing it onto the MacBook Air’s SSD. This method ensures that the OS runs efficiently, leveraging the speed of the SSD for quick boot times and smooth performance.
While Hexxeh has not tested the port on older generations of the MacBook Air, he speculates that it might work on other nVidia-based MacBook and MacBook Pro models. However, he emphasizes that he will only support the MacbookAir3,1 and MacbookAir3,2 models officially. Users with other models are welcome to try the port, but they should proceed with caution and be prepared for potential issues.
Implications and Future Developments
The successful port of Chromium OS to the MacBook Air opens up new possibilities for users who prefer the lightweight, web-centric nature of Chrome OS but are also fans of Apple’s hardware. This dual-boot setup allows users to enjoy the best of both worlds: the robust ecosystem of macOS and the streamlined, cloud-focused experience of Chrome OS.
For developers and tech enthusiasts, this port serves as a proof of concept that demonstrates the versatility and adaptability of Chromium OS. It also highlights the potential for further experimentation and development, possibly leading to more widespread compatibility with other Apple devices or even different hardware configurations.
Moreover, this development could inspire other hackers and developers to explore similar projects, potentially leading to a broader community of users and contributors who can help refine and expand the capabilities of Chromium OS on non-traditional hardware. This collaborative effort could result in more polished and user-friendly versions of the OS, making it accessible to a wider audience.
You can find out more information on how Google’s Chrome OS was ported to the MacBook Air over at Hexxeh’s website.
Source Liliputing
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
