Chrome OS will now support password-protected ZIP files

Mar 30, 2015 03:07 GMT  ·  By

Google has announced a couple of days ago, on March 27, that the Chrome OS Beta channel is now open to anyone daring to test the upcoming major release of the Linux kernel-based operating system designed for Chromebooks, which will bring a number of attractive features.

The first thing you will notice when updating your Chrome OS operating system to the Beta version, which we need to mention now that it’s unstable, thus not suitable for production machines, is the awesome Material Design implemented in the Files App. Google assures users that more apps will get the Material Design makeover in future updates.

“If you’re a tech-savvy explorer, craving new features and willing to take a little risk, try out the Chrome OS Beta Channel  and get the latest features sooner,” was stated in the announcement. “On the Beta Channel you can test, send feedback to Google, and help us shape the future of Chrome OS.”

Google Now and password-protected ZIP support comes to Chrome OS

Chrome Launcher 2.0 is another interesting component implemented in Chrome OS Beta, as it promises to become your new best friend, helping you start new activities on your Chromebook, such as launching apps or performing Google searches. Simply put, it will help you get things done in no time. Best of all, it’s powered by Google Now.

Last but not least, support for password-protected ZIP archives has been implemented in the Beta channel for Chrome OS, so you will now be able to unzip those secrets with a click of a button. The next major release of Chrome OS will also automatically detect timezones, depending on your location, and change it accordingly in your Chromebook.

If you have a Chromebook and feel a little bit adventurous to join the Beta channel of Chrome OS and try the new features presented above, don’t hesitate to drop a line or two of feedback to Google if you find some issues, so they will be able to improve the operating system and bring even more cool features in the next major update. Here are the detailed instructions to move to the Beta channel of Chrome OS.