Install Ubuntu 16 on the Pixel

Introduction

This guide will show you how to setup Ubuntu Linux on your Chromebook Pixel without flashing your BIOS.

You may choose to remove the Write-Protect screw and tinker with the BIOS or flash it in the future. Note that I am not responsible for any mishaps that may arise from that.

Step 1 Enable stuff!

Install Ubuntu 16 on the Pixel, Enable stuff!: step 1, image 1 of 2

Install Ubuntu 16 on the Pixel, Enable stuff!: step 1, image 2 of 2

Enable Developer Mode/Legacy Boot
As mentioned before, you don't need to flash your BIOS, we'll just use the stock SeaBIOS.
This means you'll have to press "crtl" + "L" on each boot
It'll take some time so grab a coffee while you're waiting...

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Step 2 Boot up Ubuntu

Install Ubuntu 16 on the Pixel, Boot up Ubuntu: step 2, image 1 of 1

Unlike the Windows installation, you don't need a USB keyboard or mouse to boot the OS
Select your USB installer drive on startup
You should get the Ubuntu startup screen

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Step 3

I highly recommend you connect to Wi-Fi before you continue to get all the necessary drivers
The Wi-Fi card is automatically detected on boot
Just step through the installer like you would with any other distro

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Step 4 Reboot

Install Ubuntu 16 on the Pixel, Reboot: step 4, image 1 of 1

Remove your installation media and reboot when prompted by Ubuntu
On startup, login to your account and setup your hotkeys to enable volume (mute, decrease, increase).
Display brightness can be fixed by setting up a custom keymapping:
sudo apt-get install xdotool
name: Brightness Up command: xdotool key XF86MonBrightnessUp
name: Brightness Down command: xdotool key XF86MonBrightnessDown

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Conclusion

You're done! If you ever want to get back to ChromeOS just create a recovery drive in your Chrome browser and enable secure boot at the Pixel startup.