Developers Retool Android To Take On Windows And Mac OS X On The Desktop

The idea of using Android as more than just a mobile OS isn't new. Some companies, like Acer, have released all-in-ones that have featured the OS, while others, such as ASUS, have tried to release notebooks that dual booted both Android and Windows. Apparently, people want Android on the desktop - or at least could, if it's done right.

The folks behind Console OS are working towards that "done right" challenge, and so far, their offering looks quite appealing. In effect, Console OS is a do-it-yourself solution that will allow you to install Android to an x86 device, whether it be a desktop, notebook, or tablet. The software includes both touchscreen and stylus support, so whether you want to play Angry Birds with the stylus or roam around an Unreal Engine 4 environment with your hands, you're covered.

Examples of that can be seen in the video below, which was captured at an event last fall - just a couple of months after Console OS was successfully funded on Kickstarter.

Its developers say that Console OS currently supports about 40 different devices, although that doesn't mean that it can't be used it you don't have one of those - it just means it won't be optimized. If you own one of the devices in the list below, you should be good-to-go.

• Clevo W740SU
• Dell XPS 11
• Dell XPS 12
• Dell XPS 13 (Most Models)
• Gigabyte BRIX, BRIX s and BRIX Pro (Most Models)
• Intel NUC (Excluding 5th Generation Intel Core & Celeron 847)
• Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon
• Lenovo Yoga 2 13
• Lenovo Yoga 2 Pro
• Sager NP2740
• Sony VAIO Tap 11

Installing Console OS isn't as easy as burning an ISO to a CD or flash drive and booting into it. Instead, you'll need to go a little hands-on with manual imaging, but fortunately, Console OS' website is rich with supporting information. It's also noted that if you don't want to install the OS to your main drive, you're actually able to use a USB hard drive instead.

If you're still on the fence, check out this simple table, which compares Console OS to its closest competitors.