postmarketOS

PostmarketOS

postmarketOS is a Linux distribution aimed at bringing newer Linux versions to older Android devices. It allows using more recent applications on devices that are no longer officially supported by vendors.
postmarketOS image
linux opensource android porting customization

postmarketOS: A Linux Distribution for Older Android Devices

postmarketOS is a Linux distribution aimed at bringing newer Linux versions to older Android devices. It allows using more recent applications on devices that are no longer officially supported by vendors.

What is PostmarketOS?

postmarketOS is a touch-optimized, pre-configured Linux distribution aimed at bringing newer Linux versions to older Android devices such as smartphones and tablets. It allows users to extend the lifetime of their devices by enabling them to use more recent applications.

The goal of the project is to make it possible to use typical Linux desktop applications like Firefox on smartphones and tablets running postmarketOS. This is achieved by providing most necessary software out of the box and making the installation process very easy.

Some key features and goals of postmarketOS include:

  • Bringing newer Linux releases and kernels to devices that are no longer officially supported
  • Enabling the use of desktop software like LibreOffice and Firefox on mobile touchscreen devices
  • Plasma Mobile support for smartphones and tablets
  • Easy installation process for users
  • Security updates via Alpine Linux package repositories
  • Supporting over 200 different device models already

As an open source project, postmarketOS depends on contributions from developers and device porters to support new hardware. It can extend the lifetime of older mobile devices by 5 years or more through ongoing maintenance and adding new capabilities.

PostmarketOS Features

Features

  1. Brings newer Linux versions to older Android devices
  2. Allows using more recent applications on outdated devices
  3. Supports devices that are no longer officially supported by vendors
  4. Based on Alpine Linux which is designed for security, simplicity, and resource efficiency

Pricing

  • Open Source

Pros

Extends life of older devices

Provides more up-to-date OS and apps than vendor supports

Open source and community driven

Lightweight and fast due to Alpine Linux base

Cons

Limited device support currently

Manual installation required

Some devices may lack full functionality

Community support only


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