Google Acquires Cameyo To Include Windows App To ChromeOS

To fully include the virtualized Windows app function into ChromeOS, Google is acquiring software virtualization startup Cameyo. Google was already collaborating closely with Cameyo, but it is now bringing this essential technology and knowledge of virtualization in-house.

Google teamed up with Cameyo last year to provide a virtual application experience for outdated Windows desktop software that was incorporated into ChromeOS. This included improved clipboard support, virtual programs as progressive web apps, and even local file system connectivity.

Businesses wishing to switch from Windows to ChromeOS or merely add a few ChromeOS devices to their fleet can benefit from Cameyo’s Virtual App Delivery (VAD) integration. To give the impression that apps are running on ChromeOS alongside Chrome and other online apps, it enables enterprises to continue running virtualized Windows apps on ChromeOS without disclosing a full version of Windows.

According to co-founder and CMO of Cameyo Robb Henshaw, “this acquisition will lead to even deeper integration of these virtualized apps into ChromeOS,” in a report by The Verge. “More integrations will enhance the end-user experience and make it even easier for IT administrators to distribute and roll out those applications to their users.”

Google has a great chance to persuade more companies to choose ChromeOS over Windows as more and more software migrates to the cloud and web-based technologies — especially with enhanced virtualized app support from Cameyo.

Following consumers’ largely indifferent reception to ChromeOS, Google embarked on a mission to promote Chromebooks in business and education. According to Canalys, the US accounted for more than 80% of global Chromebook shipments in Q2 2023, with US shipments driving the majority of Google’s growth in the Chromebook business.