Previously, Chrome OS devices were guaranteed four years’ worth of software support
Google has updated its Chrome OS End of Life (EOL) policy, extending the minimum EOL term to five years. Many Chrome OS device owners have already received an email apprising them of the change from the search engine giant.

With the new minimum EOL term applying retrospectively, each and every Chrome OS device ever released is affected by this announcement. Take for instance, the very first Chrome OS device — the CR-48 Chromebook. Prior to this EOL policy update, the EOL date for CR-48 was set for December 2014. But now the CR-48 is guaranteed to receive OS updates and security patches until at least December next year.

“We’re updating our official End of Life policy for all Chrome devices, including previous models, to extend the End of Life (EOL) minimum term,” Google told Chrome OS owners in an email.

“The new minimum EOL term is now 5 years from the date the device hardware is made available for purchase. Some models may have a further extension based on regional releases and the length of sale.”