Devices of a specific type leverage the ChromeOS operating system and possess the capability to execute applications developed for the Android platform. This functionality allows users to access a broad spectrum of software beyond what is typically available through the Chrome Web Store, expanding the utility of the device. For instance, a user can utilize a Chromebook to run productivity suites, creative applications, and gaming titles designed primarily for Android smartphones and tablets.
The capacity to operate Android applications on these devices provides several advantages. It increases versatility, offering a wider selection of software options to meet diverse user needs. Historically, the integration of Android app support addressed limitations of ChromeOS by supplementing its web-based applications with a rich ecosystem of native mobile apps. This has made these devices more appealing to a broader audience, particularly those accustomed to using Android applications on mobile devices.