Android-Chrome OS Merger Confirmed On Google I/O 2016, Play Store To Be Accessible On Chromebook

Fresh news served on the Google I/O table is the much-awaited Android-Chrome OS merger. It's not really combining the operating systems into one; it's more of incorporating the Android's OS strengths to come up with an irresistible Chrome OS and vice versa.

In terms of changes for Android's OS, it is now promised to be more "seamless." There wouldn't be software dialog box updates bugging the user every minute if he/she wants an update. A user can do his/her thing while the OS updates and after rebooting the device, the changes have automatically been applied (via Computer World).

According to Computer World, the most exciting news announced at Google I/O 2016 about the Android-Chrome OS merger is that the Play Store will be incorporated to Chromebooks. This means that downloading and using Android apps are now possible in a laptop.

"(The different types of devices) all work great together and it's not like I have chosen one or the other. They serve different needs, and that's how we see it and I think that's how it will continue to be going forward," Hiroshi Lockheimer, Google's chief of Android and Chrome OS said to Computer World in a podcast.

Because of its affordability, Google's laptop, the Chromebook is a cheap choice for gadget shoppers. But before Google I/O 2016, Chromebook's biggest drawback makes it hard to sell: its OS does not support Windows or MAC OS programs (via CNET). With the new Android-Chrome OS merger, Google hopes to attract Android-crazy millennials with about a million of Android apps accessible for Chromebook users.

ZDnet goes so far to say that the Android-Chromebook OS merger is Google's response to Apple's recent tightening of MAC OS X and iOS. The real implications, ZDnet says, is providing interesting scenarios for businesses to invest on Chromebooks.

Now, Chromebook users can use apps downloaded from the Play Store even when offline. Businesses who make use of Android apps will find the Chromebook helpful. Because of its Cloud Platform as well, productivity is predicted to increase.

Do you think it's a smart move for Google to merge Android and Chrome OS? Share your thoughts below in the comments section!