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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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Switch to Linux phone? (self.linux)

submitted 1 year ago by cianmor to c/[email protected]

36 comments fedilink hide all child comments

I have been out of the loop for a while with the development of Linux/GNU based OSes on phones. However, with seeing how companies (like reddit) can change the rules as they wish, I want to see if completely switching to Linux is possible.

Long story short… what are the current phone providers that have Linux as an OS, or what is the best way to run Linux on an off-the-shelf phone?

As a side-question, is Nextcloud still the next best option for a complete service alternative to Google/iCloud?

Thank you!

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[–] [email protected] 3 points 1 year ago (1 children)

The Pixel line of phones does allow the user to unlock its bootloader (unless it is carrier locked) and is supported by options such as GrapheneOS and CalyxOS.

I'm running GrapheneOS on my Pixel 6a, and I'm very happy with it. I'll continue to use it until a viable Linux alternative presents itself.

[–] cianmor 2 points 1 year ago (1 children)

Thank you for the tip with GrapheneOS/CalyxOS. In your opinion what is missing for a viable Linux alternative?

[–] [email protected] 2 points 1 year ago

From what I'm able to gather (and I don't have any first hand knowledge of this) is that most of them just aren't 'complete' yet. Obviously, that is a subjective statement, but it's one argument I hear repeated when I read articles reviewing these types of operating systems. Software such as Ubuntu Touch, PureOS are trying to make the transition from a desktop environment to a mobile one, whereas GrapheneOS/CalyxOS (which are based off of AOSP) are using software that was built specifically for a mobile experience. I think that the gaps are continuing to narrow between the two options, but I'm happy with GrapheneOS and will stick with it for the time being as it accomplishes everything I need and expect a phone to do.

Also, in my original reply, I neglected to mention that Pixel phones also allow OEM Unlocking as well. It was an important detail that I accidentally left out.