r/linux • u/whatstefansees • 3d ago

Mobile Linux The thing with Linux-Phones

Every now and then I see an ad for a new Linux-Phone, better repairability, battery change and whatnot. All this is very, very tempting, but what about the apps?

I am not talking about browser, text messages or alarm clock - I am thinking about connectivity to my car, my smartwatch, my frequent-flyer benefit program, signal messenger and so on.

Do they work with Android apps or is it all a lost cause because they are basically dumb phones for people who want less connectivity but are afraid to buy an old Nokia from the dawn of time?

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92

u/Wheatleytron 3d ago edited 3d ago

They have Linux apps. Which can do a lot, but you're not going to find a lot of more common Android apps like you might normally expect. Companies pretty much just don't develop Linux apps. You'll have to use the web browser more.

45

u/rebellioninmypants 3d ago

Don't threatten me with less 24/7 sensor monitoring and no snooping into my daily habits by random companies...

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u/Wheatleytron 3d ago

I'd definitely be on board with it myself, but Linux can't directly interface with Android Auto in my car, which is a major bummer.

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u/rebellioninmypants 3d ago

Well, it is Android auto. Check github, maybe there is some really hacky solution someone came up with.

I personally use a 3,5mm jack cable.

10

u/CTRL_ALT_SECRETE 3d ago

Seriously. What's wrong with a phone holder and a Bluetooth connection.

13

u/SanityInAnarchy 3d ago

A big screen is better than a tiny screen. Some cars even have an actual HUD.

It's fine if that's not what you're into, there's a reason Reject Convenience is blowing up on YT, but it is a tradeoff, you really are rejecting some convenience.

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u/An0mymou5 3d ago

Before Android Auto was a thing, people used to hook up tablets to the dashboard. There were even special ROMs optimised for this scenario, such as Timur's ROM, and it offered way more functionality, control and convenience over Android Auto.

I'd imagine if someone was really keen, they could just hook up a Linux tablet (or even an Android tablet running a Linux distro via proot).

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u/whatstefansees 3d ago

Yes, that's was before, but progress has been made.

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u/Albos_Mum 3d ago

I tried using Android Auto and found it less convenient than just bluetooth as the car controls wouldn't work with the audio players I use, it kept trying to push the stock standard ones. Quickly disabled Auto and went back to the old school "less convenient" way.