A Chromebook is a robust machine that runs on ChromeOS. Over the years, Chromebooks have seamlessly embraced Android and Linux applications, expanding far beyond web-only usage. Primarily, you can use web-based apps on a Chromebook, such as Google Chrome, Gmail, YouTube, Google Docs, and many others.
With Android support enabled, you can also install Android applications directly from the Google Play Store. However, if you’re wondering which Android version your Chromebook is running, you can follow this guide to find out.
Why Checking the Android Version on a Chromebook Matters
Before jumping into the steps, it helps to understand why this matters in the first place.
Many Android apps require a minimum Android version to function properly. If an app isn’t installing, keeps crashing, or is missing features, the Android version on your Chromebook could be the reason. Developers also roll out features based on Android versions, so newer versions often mean better performance, improved security, and wider app compatibility.
In short, if you rely on Android apps on Chromebook, knowing how to check your Android version is essential.
How to Check the Android Version on a Chromebook
Android powers the Google Play Store on Chromebooks. Your Chromebook will support Android apps if it was released in 2017 or later. If you haven’t enabled the Google Play Store yet, make sure to do so before continuing.
Now, let’s take a look at how to check the Android version on your Chromebook. Follow the steps below to find out.
1. Open Settings on your Chromebook.
2. Select the Apps tab and click on Manage Google Play preferences.
3. Click on Android settings.
4. This will open the Android portion of your Chromebook. Here, you’ll see various Android settings. To check the Android version, click on About device to view system information.
5. Click the Android version option under Device details.
6. You’ll now see the Android version running on your Chromebook. For example, the screenshot shows Android 13 running on the device. Similarly, your Chromebook will display the Android version it’s currently using.
How to Update the Android Version on a Chromebook
Unlike smartphones, Chromebooks don’t always run the latest Android version. Most modern Chromebooks currently run Android 11 or Android 13, depending on the ChromeOS version and the device model.
Google gradually upgrades Android versions through ChromeOS updates, so there’s no need to update Android separately.
To ensure you’re running the latest available Android version, open Settings, go to About ChromeOS, and check for updates. Install any available updates and restart your Chromebook.
If Google has released a newer Android version for your specific Chromebook model, it will be included automatically.
Can’t Find Manage Google Play Preferences
If you can’t find Manage Google Play preferences, it usually means one of four things.
Your Chromebook may be an older model that doesn’t support Android apps. Android app support could also be disabled in Settings. In some cases, school or work-managed Chromebooks restrict Android features altogether, which hides Google Play options.
Plus, if you’ve opted for extended security updates, the Google Play Store may be removed. As a result, you won’t be able to access Manage Google Play preferences.
If Android apps are supported on your device, enabling the Google Play Store will immediately unlock Manage Google Play preferences option and access to your Android version information.
