How to turn on Android apps for Chrome OS

Problem

How can you turn on Android apps for ChromeOS?

Environment

  • ChromeOS
  • Admin console 

Solution

Confirm your model supports Android apps
  • Unless specified elsewhere, all devices that have launched in or after 2019 will support Android Apps. 
  • For old devices, review ChromeOS Systems Supporting Android Apps to see if your device is listed.
  • If the device is supported it will say Stable channel next to them.
Add devices to your subscription
  1. Log in to the Admin console.
  2. Navigate to Billing > Subscriptions.
  3. Click Add or upgrade a subscription.
  4. On the left hand side, click Devices.
  5. Under Android management select Get Started.
  6. Click Checkout to subscribe to this free plan.

Enable Android apps for your device
  1. Log in to the Admin console.
  2. Navigate to Devices > Chrome > Apps & Extensions > User & Browsers.
  3. Go at the top right and click Additional settings.
  4. Go to the first policy Android applications on Chrome devices.
  5. Set it up as Allow.
  6. Save the changes.
    • The device will start getting the new Managed play store so they can install the compatible Android apps in Chromebooks.