Linux on Mobile Devices
Although Android is based on the Linux kernel, it is the GNU userland that really makes up "GNU/Linux", the operating system that we know and love; and in Android, it has been completely supplanted by their own, Apache-based userland, "Android/Linux".
As a result, Android is binary-compatible with Linux programs, but cannot run anything graphical without large additions.
There are ways to add Linux compatibility
Because Android uses the Linux kernel, all we need to do to install GNU/Linux is to change the apparent root directory. This is called a chroot.
This method works on every device, and is ideal for command-line applications.
However, since Android is still in control of the display drivers, X Windows applications must use a VNC Remote Desktop. This can add significant overhead on top of the existing Android system, so only newer smartphones can run graphical apps efficiently.
Full blown GNU/Linux, with full compatibility for any ARM-compiled "Linux" app.
- Ubuntu Desktop (Nexus 7)
- KDE Plasma Active + Mer (Nexus 7)
- UbnHD2 (HTC HD2)
- (HTC Desire HD)
- (HP Touchpad)
Ports of mobile operating systems that use the Linux kernel, but are not "GNU/Linux" and have their own applications.
- Ubuntu Phone (Nexus 4, Galaxy Nexus)
- Open WebOS (Galaxy Nexus)
- Firefox OS (Galaxy Nexus)
Note: All non-Android projects have moved to the BASLQC Wiki.
- Introduction - A quick intro to the rationale and ideals of this guide, and smartphone modding in general.
- General Setup - Learn how to install and run the tools you need to succeed.
- Device Guides - Customized, fully decked out guides for rooting each and every device we could find.
- General OS Customizations - General customizations that work on all devices of a specific OS.
- General Guidelines - The ideals that you should uphold while working with and editing this guide.
- Device Guide Templates - Templates and general guidelines for creating customized guides for a device.
- Linux - Run a full desktop OS on your little mobile device; research is being made to make it comfortable to use in the mobile space.
- Glossary - Contains all the crazy acronyms and word soup that you'll need to wade through when using this guide.
- Android Buying Guide for Modders - While modding can fix up an outdated device, it will make your life easier to buy the right device from the start.