Chromebook Update Support: How to Check End of Life

Chromebooks get automatic updates for a limited time, after which they stop receiving new features and security patches. This guide shows you how to check exactly when your Chromebook will stop getting updates, so you can plan for a replacement or consider alternative options. All you need is your Chromebook and a few minutes.

What You’ll Need

Your Chromebook (powered on and connected to the internet)
Access to the Chrome browser (built-in)

Step-by-Step

Open Chrome and go to the update policy page. In the address bar, type chrome://os-updates and press Enter. This page shows the exact end-of-life date for your specific Chromebook model.
Read the displayed information. The page will show your device name, the current version of ChromeOS, and the date when updates will stop. This date is set by Google and is based on the hardware platform, not the purchase date.
If the page is blank or shows an error, use the settings method. Click the clock in the bottom-right corner, then select the gear icon to open Settings.
Navigate to About ChromeOS. In Settings, go to About ChromeOS at the bottom of the left sidebar. Click on Additional details to see your device name and current ChromeOS version.
Visit the official Auto Update Policy page. Open a new tab and go to https://support.google.com/chrome/a/answer/6220366. This page lists all Chromebook models and their end-of-life dates. Find your device name from step 4 in the list.
Note the date. The table shows the month and year when updates will cease. For example, if it says “Jun 2028,” your Chromebook will get updates through June 2028, after which it will no longer receive new versions.

Common Mistakes

Confusing purchase date with end-of-life. The update cutoff is based on when the hardware platform was released, not when you bought the device. A new-in-box older model may have only a year or two of updates left.
Looking at the wrong model name. The name shown in Settings is the marketing name (e.g., “Acer Chromebook 14”). The update policy list uses the same name, but sometimes includes a code like “C732” or “CB3-431.” Double-check the full model number if you’re unsure.
Assuming all Chromebooks get 10 years of updates. Google extended updates to 10 years for models released after 2021, but older models may have shorter support. Always check the specific date for your model.
Ignoring the “last update” date. The end-of-life date is when the last update is pushed, not when the device stops working. After that date, the device will still function, but it won’t get security patches.

Tips

Check early. If you’re considering buying a used Chromebook, verify the end-of-life date before purchasing. A device that’s already past its update date is a security risk.
Set a reminder. When you find your end-of-life date, add it to your calendar a few months in advance. That gives you time to back up files and shop for a replacement.
Use the official list. Third-party websites may have outdated information. Always refer to Google’s official Auto Update Policy page for the most accurate dates.
Consider ChromeOS Flex. If your Chromebook is no longer supported, you can install ChromeOS Flex (a version of ChromeOS for older devices) on it, but note that it may not have all the same features and is not officially supported on all hardware.

Troubleshooting

The chrome://os-updates page doesn’t load. This page is available on most Chromebooks, but if it shows a blank screen, use the official support page method instead. It’s just as accurate.
Your model isn’t listed. If you can’t find your exact model on the Auto Update Policy page, your device may be a very old or obscure model. Try searching for the full model number (e.g., “Acer Chromebook 15 CB5-571”) on Google’s support site.
The date seems wrong. If the date shown is earlier than you expected, double-check that you’re looking at the correct row. Some models have multiple sub-models with different dates. Also, Google occasionally extends dates, so refresh the page after a few months.
You’re using a managed Chromebook. If your device is enrolled by a school or employer, the admin may have a custom update policy that overrides the standard date. Contact your IT administrator for the exact date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do Chromebooks get updates?
Most Chromebooks get updates for 10 years from the platform’s release date, but older models may have shorter support. The exact date is listed on Google’s Auto Update Policy page.

Q: What happens after my Chromebook stops getting updates?
Your Chromebook will still turn on and work, but it won’t receive new features or security patches. Over time, websites and apps may become incompatible, and your data could be at risk from unpatched vulnerabilities.

Q: Can I extend the update period?
No, the end-of-life date is set by Google and cannot be extended. You can continue using the device, but you should avoid sensitive activities like online banking. Installing ChromeOS Flex may give you a few more years of updates, but it’s not guaranteed on all hardware.

Q: Does the end-of-life date apply to all Chromebooks, including education models?
Yes, but schools and businesses that purchase through enterprise agreements may have different terms. If you have a managed device, check with your administrator.

Q: How do I find my exact model number?
Go to Settings > About ChromeOS > Additional details. The model name is listed there. You can also look on the bottom of your Chromebook for a sticker with the model number.

Q: Is it safe to use a Chromebook after updates stop?
It’s not recommended for anything sensitive. The device will be vulnerable to security issues that are never fixed. Use it only for non-critical tasks like watching videos or reading, and avoid entering passwords or personal information.

General steps for current mainstream versions; menus can differ by device and version. See the disclaimer or report an error.

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