Where Chromebook apps come from

A Chromebook runs Chrome OS, which means most apps come from the Google Play Store — the same place Android phones get apps. You can also install web apps (programs that run in your browser) and Linux apps if you turn on Linux support, but the Play Store is the main route for most people.

The Play Store is built into your Chromebook. You do not need to read a separate store or sign up for anything beyond your Google account, which you already have if you use Gmail or YouTube.

Key Takeaways

  • The Google Play Store comes pre-installed on most Chromebooks and works like the app store on an Android phone.
  • You search for an app by name, tap Install, and it appears on your shelf or in your app drawer within seconds.
  • Not every app exists for Chromebooks — some are only made for Windows or Mac, so you may need to use the web version instead.
  • You can also run web apps (like Google Docs or Slack in the browser) and Linux apps if you enable Linux on your Chromebook.

Opening the Play Store and finding an app

On your Chromebook, look at the bottom left corner of the screen. You will see a circle with dots inside it — that is the app launcher. Click it, and a grid of app icons appears. At the top of that grid is a search box.

Type the name of the app you want. The Play Store will show you results. Click on the app you want to open its page. You will see a description, screenshots, reviews, and an Install button. Click Install.

The app downloads and installs in the background. You will see a notification when it is done. The app then appears on your shelf (the bar at the bottom of your screen) or in your app drawer, depending on your Chromebook model.

What happens if an app is not available for Chromebook

Some apps only exist for Windows, Mac, or iPhone. If you search for an app and nothing appears in the Play Store, it is not made for Chromebooks. This is common with older software or programs designed for a specific operating system.

Your options are to use the web version of that app (many apps have a website you can visit in your browser instead), find a similar app that does work on Chromebook, or use a different device. For example, if you need Microsoft Word, you can use Google Docs in your browser, or you can install the Microsoft Office web app from the Play Store.

Installing web apps directly from websites

Some websites let you install themselves as apps on your Chromebook without going through the Play Store. When you visit these sites, your browser may show an install button or a plus sign in the address bar.

Click that button, and the website installs as an app on your shelf. It works like any other app — you click it to open it — but it is really just a shortcut to the website. Google Docs, Slack, and Spotify all work this way. These are called progressive web apps, and they work the same whether you install them or just visit the website.

Turning on Linux to run desktop apps

If you need software that is not available in the Play Store or as a web app, you can turn on Linux support on your Chromebook. This lets you install Linux versions of programs like GIMP (image editing), Blender (3D design), or command-line tools.

To turn on Linux, open Settings, click About Chrome OS on the left, then click Developers. You will see a Linux (Beta) section. Click Turn On. Your Chromebook will read and set up a Linux environment, which takes a few minutes.

Once Linux is on, you can open the Terminal app and install software using Linux commands, or use the Linux app store. This is more technical than using the Play Store, and not all Linux software will run smoothly on a Chromebook, but it gives you access to a much wider range of programs.

Managing storage when you install many apps

Chromebooks have less storage than Windows or Mac computers — usually between 32 and 128 gigabytes. Apps take up space, and so do files you read. If you install a lot of apps, you may run out of room.

To see how much storage you are using, open Settings and click Storage on the left. You will see a breakdown of what is taking up space. If you are running low, uninstall apps you do not use. Right-click an app on your shelf or in your app drawer and select Uninstall. You can always reinstall it later from the Play Store.

If you need more permanent storage, you can use cloud storage like Google Drive, OneDrive, or Dropbox. These let you store files online instead of on your Chromebook itself, which frees up space.

Keeping apps updated

The Play Store updates your apps automatically in the background. You do not have to do anything. If an update is available, your Chromebook will read and install it when you are not using the device, usually overnight.

If you want to check for updates manually, open the Play Store, click your profile picture in the top right, and select Manage Apps and Device. Click the Manage tab, and you will see a list of apps with updates available. Click Update All to install them all at once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use apps from the Microsoft Store or Apple App Store on my Chromebook?

No. The Microsoft Store is only for Windows, and the Apple App Store is only for iPhones and iPads. Chromebooks use the Google Play Store. If you need a Windows or Mac program, you will need to use that device, find a web version, or look for a Chromebook alternative.

Do I need to pay for apps on the Play Store?

Some apps are free, and some cost money. The Play Store shows the price before you install. You pay with the payment method linked to your Google account. Many popular apps like Gmail, YouTube, and Google Maps are free.

What if an app crashes or will not open?

Try restarting your Chromebook first. If that does not work, uninstall the app and reinstall it from the Play Store. If it still does not work, the app may not be compatible with your Chromebook model or version of Chrome OS. Check the app's reviews to see if other people are having the same problem.

Can I sideload apps that are not in the Play Store?

Yes, but it is technical and not recommended for most people. You can enable Developer Mode on your Chromebook and install APK files (Android app files) manually, but this voids your warranty and can make your device less find. For most users, sticking to the Play Store is safer and simpler.