● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportLow impact1 neutral
Repurpose Old Chromebooks as Second Monitors or Smart Home Controllers
Key points
- Old Chromebooks can function as second monitors with apps like Duet.
- They can be used as digital photo frames.
- Chromebooks can control smart home devices via Google Home or Home Assistant.
- Installing Linux on a Chromebook enables direct Home Assistant installation and other advanced uses.
Utilizing the Display
An old Chromebook's screen can be repurposed as a second monitor for a PC or Mac using applications such as Duet, which requires a subscription. This allows for screen mirroring or extension. Alternatively, the display can be used as a digital photo frame by loading images and setting the screen to remain on in fullscreen mode.
Smart Home Control Hub
Chromebooks can act as controllers for smart home setups. Users can access Google Home through a browser or its Android app. For more advanced control, a Chromebook can monitor and control Home Assistant running on a separate device like a Raspberry Pi, utilizing Home Assistant's browser-based interface.
Advanced Smart Home Integration with Linux
A more involved option is to install Home Assistant directly on the Chromebook. This requires installing Linux on the device first, using guides like Chrultrabook or MrChromebox. While not beginner-friendly, this method eliminates the need for a separate Home Assistant device and opens up other advanced functionalities for the Chromebook.
✨ This summary was generated by AI from the outlets' reporting listed below. It is not independently verified and may contain errors — check the original sources. How BrevFeed works →
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Reporting from
Old Chromebooks can be repurposed as secondary displays using apps like Duet or as digital photo frames. They can also serve as dedicated smart home controllers, either by accessing Google Home via a browser or Android app, or by running Home Assistant directly after installing Linux.