Stable, beta, and development channels

You can test the latest features of the Chrome operating system (OS) by switching channels to a more experimental version.

You’ll need to be the Chromebook owner to switch channels.

To see which channel you're using:

Click the status area, where your account picture appears.
Click Settings > About Chrome OS.
An "About" window will open with your version number and channel.

Before you switch channels

Stable channel: This channel is fully tested by the Chrome OS team, and is the best choice to avoid crashes and other problems. It's updated roughly every 2-3 weeks for minor changes, and every 6 weeks for major changes.

Beta channel: If you want to see upcoming changes and improvements with low risk, use the Beta channel. It's updated roughly every week, with major updates coming every 6 weeks, more than a month before the Stable channel gets them.

Dev channel: If you want to see the latest Chrome OS features, use the Dev channel. The Dev channel gets updated once or twice weekly. While this build is tested, it might have bugs, as we want people to see what's new as soon as possible.

Warning: Switching from an experimental channel to a more stable channel will delete everything from your Chromebook, like downloaded files, photos, owner permissions, and saved networks for all accounts. You’ll need to enter all your Google Accounts again.

Switch channels

Sign in to your Chromebook with the owner account.
Click the status area, where your account picture appears.
Click Settings > About Chrome OS > More info....
Click the Change channel... button.
Pick a channel from the box that appears.

Move to an experimental channel

To switch to a more experimental channel of Chrome OS (for example, from Stable to Beta), click Change channel. Your Chromebook will download the update, then install it the next time you turn on your Chromebook.

Move to a more stable channel

To go back to a more stable channel (for example, from Beta to Stable):

Click the Change channel and Powerwash button. Your Chromebook will download the update.
When you see "Channel changed," click Relaunch and Powerwash. Your Chromebook will restart on a more stable channel.

This will delete everything from your Chromebook, and you’ll have to enter all your Google Accounts again.

Note: If you're using a managed Chromebook, this change does not require a powerwash. The change will happen when the more stable version matches the one already on the device.

Discuss with other Chromies in Chromebook Central.

Casey is a Chromebook expert and author of this help page. Help her improve this article by leaving feedback below.

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