CalyxOS
CalyxOS is an open source mobile operating system based on Android that focuses on privacy and security. It removes proprietary apps and services, restricts permissions from apps, and includes privacy-focused tools.
privacy
security
mobile
open-source
CalyxOS: Open Source Mobile OS for Privacy & Security
An open source mobile operating system based on Android, prioritizing user privacy and security, without proprietary apps and services.
What is CalyxOS?
CalyxOS is an open source privacy-focused mobile operating system based on Android. It is developed by the Calyx Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating privacy-respecting technologies.
Some key features of CalyxOS that set it apart from standard Android include:
- Removing proprietary apps and services like Google Play Services that can track user data
- Restricting permissions that apps can access, limiting their ability to gather personal data
- Including additional privacy and security focused apps like a firewall, encrypted messaging, and secure web browsing tools
- Providing frequent over-the-air security updates to patch vulnerabilities
- Open source code that is transparent and auditable for security
The goal of CalyxOS is to give users more control over their privacy while still offering compatibility with Android apps. It appeals most to privacy-conscious users like security researchers, journalists, and activists who want a mobile OS focused solely on user privacy without ties to large tech companies.
CalyxOS Features
Features
- Removes all proprietary Google apps and services
- Includes open source alternatives to common apps
- Tight permission controls for apps
- Built-in firewall
- Tor integration
- Supports Android app ecosystem
- Based on Android Open Source Project (AOSP)
Pricing
- Open Source
- Free
Pros
Greatly improved privacy and security
No data collection by Google
More control over apps and system
Active development and updates
Cons
Limited compatibility with some apps
Loss of some Google services and ecosystem
Manual updates required
Less convenient than standard Android
Official Links
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