Chrome devices receive automatic updates regularly that enhance both the device itself and the software on the device. Chrome device updates are designed to be simple for the user and, therefore, include updates to the device, Chrome operating system, browser and firmware. However, end-to-end updates for all our devices to ensure the highest levels of security requires dependencies on many third-party hardware and software providers so we cannot indefinitely ensure that older Chrome devices will receive updates to enable new OS and browser features.
Each device has an Auto Update Expiration (AUE) date listed; this means that before this date, devices will receive new software updates from Google.
Google provides each new hardware platform with 6.5 years of Auto Update support. Multiple devices can share the same hardware platform. The 6.5 years starts when the first device on the platform is released(1). Manufacturers are advised to choose the newest platforms to ensure that they produce devices that have the longest Auto Update support available.
Please check the Auto Update Expiration date when making a purchasing decision. Chrome device models that have not reached their AUE date will continue to receive OS updates and function with the business and education management service.
When a device reaches AUE, it means that automatic software updates from Google will no longer be provided.
Enrolled Chrome devices that have reached their AUE date will no longer receive technical support from Google.
Business and education customers using devices that have passed their AUE date should not expect that they can manage their devices as expected using the Google Admin console or leverage new management features released.
The End of Sale date is controlled by the manufacturer of the device model and has no relation to model’s AUE date.