A recent Google bug report leak has revealed the first real look at AluminiumOS (ALOS) Google’s highly anticipated operating system designed to merge Android and ChromeOS into a single desktop platform. The leaked videos and screenshots, first reported by 9to5Google, suggest Google is preparing a major shift in its computing ecosystem that could challenge both Windows 11 and macOS.
A Unified Hybrid Interface
AluminiumOS features a clean hybrid design combining Android 16’s modern visuals with ChromeOS’s productivity-focused layout. The taskbar sits at the bottom, but the app launcher is now centered similar to Windows 11 while the time and system status indicators have moved to the top left, creating a macOS-style feel. The top bar is taller and displays Android-style icons for Wi-Fi, battery, and notifications, making navigation more intuitive for both mobile and desktop users.
Deep Gemini AI Integration
AI appears to be central to AluminiumOS. A dedicated Gemini AI icon remains visible in the system bar at all times, suggesting constant access to Google’s assistant. Reports indicate the OS will leverage local Neural Processing Units (NPUs) to run AI models like Gemma offline, enabling faster, private, and smarter workflows such as summarization, automation, and contextual assistance without needing constant internet access.
Desktop Chrome with Extensions
One of the biggest limitations of Android on desktops has been the lack of full browser extension support. AluminiumOS solves this by enabling Google Chrome for Android with desktop extensions, bringing tools like password managers, productivity add-ons, and developer plugins directly into the Android ecosystem a major leap for power users and professionals.
Enhanced Windowing and Multitasking
The leaked interface shows fully resizable windows with minimize, maximize, and close buttons, along with seamless split-screen multitasking. Google has also updated the cursor with a trailing effect for better visibility on large displays, reinforcing AluminiumOS’s PC-first design philosophy.
Broad Hardware Support and Launch Timeline
Notably, AluminiumOS was spotted running on an Intel-powered HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook, confirming support for x86 architecture alongside ARM. This suggests many premium Chromebooks could upgrade to the new OS instead of being replaced. Internal sources indicate AluminiumOS is based on Android 16, with a projected launch sometime in 2026.
Bottom Line
With AluminiumOS, Google aims to combine the flexibility of Android apps with the productivity of ChromeOS and the power of desktop browsing positioning itself as a serious competitor to Windows and macOS. If the leaks hold true, AluminiumOS could redefine how users experience Google computing across laptops, tablets, and desktop devices.
