Before buying a Chromebook, check how long that exact model will receive automatic updates. A low price is less attractive if support ends long before you expect to replace the laptop.
This applies to new, refurbished and second-hand machines. The important date belongs to the model’s update schedule, not the day you buy it. Here is how to check it without relying on a seller’s description.
The quick check: open Settings → About ChromeOS → Additional details and look under Update schedule. If you cannot inspect the laptop, match its exact model number to Google’s official list before paying.
What does the update-expiry date mean?
Google uses an Automatic Update Expiration date, often shortened to AUE, for the end of scheduled automatic updates. Its policy provides ten years of updates from the platform’s release, not ten fresh years for every buyer. A platform is the underlying combination of components, so purchase date alone cannot establish remaining support. Google’s Auto Update policy includes the official model list.
1. Find the exact model
Ask for the manufacturer and full model number, including letters and numbers after the main product name. “14-inch Chromebook” or “Chromebook 314” may not identify the particular version clearly enough.
For a used machine, ask for a photograph of its model label and update schedule, with personal details concealed. Do not treat the year in a shop listing as proof of the platform’s age. Keep the listing and the model details together so you can check the delivered device against what you ordered.
2. Look it up in Google’s list
- Open the official Auto Update policy page.
- Find the manufacturer, then match the complete model identifier. Your browser’s Find function can help with a long list.
- Read the month and year under Automatic updates until.
- Look for an asterisk beside the date. Some models require an extended-update opt-in, explained below.
If there are several near-matches, stop and clarify the model with the seller. Guessing at a suffix defeats the purpose of this check. Save the relevant details for your comparison, then recheck the live list before purchase.
3. Confirm on the Chromebook itself
If you have the device, or a seller can show its screen, follow Google’s update-schedule instructions:
- Select the time in the bottom-right corner.
- Open Settings.
- Select About ChromeOS, then Additional details.
- Read the date in Update schedule.
Check this again when a refurbished or second-hand purchase arrives, while you can still raise a mismatch under the seller’s return terms. If the date differs from what you expected, resolve the discrepancy rather than assuming the longer date is correct.
Watch for extended-update trade-offs
Some eligible Chromebooks released before 2021 can receive extended updates, but there is an important catch. Google says opting in removes Android apps, their on-device data and Google Play Store access. You cannot reverse the opt-in.
An asterisked date therefore needs more investigation if you depend on an Android app. Read Google’s extended-update explanation before deciding, and do not opt in merely to see what happens. Back up any important Android app data before making that decision. If you do not opt in, automatic updates will not continue into the extended period.
Does the laptop stop working at expiry?
No. Google says you can continue using a working older Chromebook. However, after its final update it no longer receives ChromeOS and browser updates, security fixes or new features. Some existing features and applications may also lose compatibility over time. See Google’s guidance for an older Chromebook.
Google says verified boot still works after updates end. This built-in startup check looks for system tampering. It is not a replacement for new security fixes. Our buying advice is to favour a model with support covering the period you intend to use it, rather than relying on an already-expired bargain for everyday accounts or sensitive activity.
A short checklist before paying
- Do the listing, model label and update schedule agree?
- Does support cover your intended ownership period?
- Would extended updates remove an app you need?
- Are the battery condition, charger and return terms acceptable too?
For a school- or work-managed device, ask its administrator about support rather than trying to remove management. If a used laptop is still managed by an organisation, resolve that with the seller before buying.
If you are buying through Amazon, our beginner’s Amazon shopping guide explains how to check the seller, order details and return options. A low price or a Prime badge does not tell you how many supported years a Chromebook has left.
Checked against Google documentation on 24 October 2026. Support dates are model-specific; always confirm the current listing before buying.