After months of anticipation, we finally have a glimpse of Android operating on a PC through Google's innovative ChromeOS and Android hybrid platform, known as Aluminium OS. This exciting development comes thanks to an unintentional leak from Google.
According to reports from 9to5Google, a bug report concerning Chrome Incognito tabs was recently published on the Google Issue Tracker, which included two screen recordings from a device running Aluminium OS. Although Google has since restricted access to this report, 9to5Google was able to obtain the videos before the lockout. The bug tracker also referenced an ALOS software version, confirming it as the abbreviation for Aluminium OS, with the recordings originating from an HP Elite Dragonfly 13.5 Chromebook.
The shared videos, which were uploaded to YouTube by Android Authority, further validate this as Aluminium OS, identifying it as Android 16, with a build number aligning with the ALOS version mentioned in the bug report. It appears that an existing Chromebook is being utilized to test the forthcoming ALOS experience, which Android's head, Sameer Samat, previously indicated we should expect more details about this year.
As for the user interface of Aluminium, it presents a fascinating blend of features. The taskbar is reminiscent of ChromeOS, yet the start button is centrally positioned, similar to Android. Additionally, a status bar appears at the top, showcasing familiar Android icons for battery life and Wi-Fi connectivity. The video offers a sneak peek at the Play Store and some split-screen multitasking functionality, although we may need to wait for a dedicated video from Google for a comprehensive exploration of the new operating system.
