Google has announced that Chrome for ARM64 Linux will be available in the second quarter of 2026, sometime between April and June. This release will bring full Chrome functionality to Raspberry Pi boards, Pinebook laptops, Mac computers running Asahi Linux, and other 64-bit ARM hardware.
Why is Chrome on ARM64 Linux Important?
ARM Linux users have had access to versions of the open-source project Chromium, which forms the basis of Chrome, for years. Chromium is not the same as Chrome. It does not support Google account synchronization, offers limited DRM playback, and lacks several proprietary features tied to the Google ecosystem. Official Chrome releases fill these gaps, making the browser compatible with what is available on Windows, macOS, x86 Linux, and Chromebooks.
Google stated that this release meets the demand for a browser experience that combines the advantages of the open-source Chromium project with the ecosystem of Google applications and features.
Long-Awaited for ARM Hardware
In recent years, support for ARM processors among operating systems has significantly expanded. Google launched Chrome for Apple Silicon Macs in 2020, followed by native ARM Chrome versions for Windows in 2024. Linux remained the last major platform without an official ARM64 release.
This is notable because ARM-based Chromebooks have been available since 2012, and ChromeOS itself is Linux-based.
Which Devices Will Benefit from ARM64 Chrome?
The new ARM64 Chrome releases will allow a wider range of devices to run the official browser, including Raspberry Pi boards, Pinebook ARM laptops, Mac computers running Asahi Linux, and other ARM-based Linux systems.
What Does This Mean for ARM Linux Users?
While many Linux users already rely on Chromium or Firefox, the official Chrome release offers another option for those wanting full integration with the Google ecosystem.
For ARM Linux systems used in development, education, or light computing environments, the arrival of official Chrome releases could significantly enhance the overall browser experience.
How to Get Chrome for ARM64 Linux?
Users will be able to download the browser directly from the official Chrome download page and it may also appear in Linux software repositories. Google has not confirmed a specific release date within the second quarter. The browser may also appear in third-party software repositories.
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