Linux Alternatives to Android: Exploring Mobile OS Options

From Android Dominance to Linux Alternatives

Since its inception in 2008, Android has become the dominant operating system in the mobile market, capturing a significant share due to its open-source nature and extensive app ecosystem. Developed by Google, Android’s flexibility allowed manufacturers to customize the OS to meet their hardware specifications, fostering a competitive landscape in mobile technology. However, this dominance was not without its criticisms. Concerns over privacy, security, and the increasing bloatware added by manufacturers and carriers have led to growing discontent among a segment of users.

These limitations paved the way for the exploration of Linux-based alternatives. While Android itself is based on the Linux kernel, the emergence of full-fledged Linux distributions on mobile devices has been a noteworthy development. Early efforts included projects like Ubuntu Touch and Sailfish OS, which aimed to provide a more open and privacy-focused user experience. Despite their innovative approaches, these early Linux-based mobile OSes struggled to gain mainstream traction due to limited app support and hardware compatibility challenges.

The evolution of mobile technology has been marked by a significant increase in the capabilities and performance of mobile hardware. This technological advancement has enabled more robust and feature-rich operating systems to run efficiently on mobile devices. Concurrently, the open-source software movement has continued to gain momentum, advocating for transparency, user control, and collaborative development. These principles resonate strongly with the ethos of Linux, further fueling interest in Linux-based mobile operating systems.

As we witness the rise of these alternatives, it is evident that the mobile OS landscape is undergoing a transformation. The convergence of enhanced hardware capabilities and the open-source philosophy offers a promising foundation for Linux-based operating systems to challenge the status quo set by Android. This shift not only provides users with more choices but also reinforces the importance of privacy and security in the ever-evolving digital age.

As the mobile operating system landscape continues to evolve, several Linux-based mobile operating systems have emerged, offering unique alternatives to the traditional Android platform. These systems are designed to provide users with greater control, privacy, and customization options. Here, we explore some of the most popular Linux-based mobile operating systems currently available or under development.

Ubuntu Touch

Ubuntu Touch, developed by UBports, is one of the most prominent Linux-based mobile operating systems. It aims to deliver a converged computing experience, allowing a seamless transition between mobile and desktop environments. Ubuntu Touch boasts features such as a customizable interface, robust security protocols, and a strong emphasis on user privacy. Its target audience includes tech enthusiasts and users looking for an open-source alternative to mainstream operating systems.

Pure O/S

PureOS is a GNU/Linux distribution based on Debian. It is a desktop distribution that can be used as live media (CD or USB) or as full-featured operating systems installed on a hard disk. PureOS uses free and open source software exclusively and is endorsed by the Free Software Foundation. It ships with some privacy features enabled by default such as using DuckDuckGo as the search engine and the HTTPS Everywhere browser extension is enabled.

PostmarketOS

PostmarketOS is a relatively new, community-driven project that aims to provide a sustainable alternative to existing mobile operating systems. It is designed to run on a wide variety of devices, including older smartphones, thereby extending their lifespan. PostmarketOS emphasizes long-term support, security, and the ability to run mainline Linux, making it a compelling choice for users who prioritize sustainability and openness.

Plasma Mobile, developed by the KDE community, is another significant player in the Linux mobile OS space. It is built on top of KDE’s Plasma desktop environment and is designed to offer a cohesive and intuitive user experience.

Plasma Mobile supports a wide range of applications and is highly customizable, making it appealing to developers and users who value flexibility. Its integration with KDE Connect allows for seamless synchronization between mobile and desktop devices.tmarketOS emphasizes long-term support, security, and the ability to run mainline Linux, making it a compelling choice for users who prioritize sustainability and openness.

Murena E OS

/e/OS is a complete mobile ecosystem which includes a mobile operating system (ROM) and online-services. The /e/OS project was launched at the end of 2017. It has historically been the first mobile OS to focus on deGoogling.

/e/OS is: Open source, Pro-privacy, Compatible with existing Android applications, Cares about usability, Running on more than 200 different smartphone models and is an alternative to the Apple/Google duopoly for smartphone users.