Google’s venture into the realm of Linux on Android has taken an intriguing turn with the introduction of a native Linux Terminal app, a project that has been in the works since late 2024. This innovative application leverages the Android Virtualization Framework (AVF) to run a local virtual machine powered by Debian, enabling users to execute a variety of Linux commands seamlessly. Earlier this year, the app’s capabilities were highlighted when a user successfully ran the classic game Doom within this environment, illustrating its potential to handle graphical applications.
Native Linux Terminal on Android: What to Expect?
According to a recent report from Android Police, Google has discreetly begun rolling out the Terminal app to select Android devices as part of the March Pixel Drop. For those eager to explore this feature, the app is currently available for Google Pixel devices and requires a download of approximately 500 MB to set up the Debian instance.
However, accessing the Terminal app necessitates enabling developer mode on the device. This process is straightforward: users simply navigate to Settings ⇾ About Phone and tap the Build number seven times. Following this, they can proceed to Settings ⇾ System ⇾ Developer options ⇾ Linux development environment and enable the option to (Experimental) Run Linux terminal on Android. Once activated, the Terminal app can be launched from the app drawer.
In its current iteration, the Terminal app offers several functionalities. Users can adjust the storage space allocated to the Debian virtual machine through the Disk Resize setting, configure network settings with Port Controls, and recover the virtual machine’s storage partition via the Recovery option. This level of customization opens up exciting possibilities for developers and tech enthusiasts alike.
It would be advantageous for other smartphone manufacturers to consider integrating the native Linux terminal into their devices, as this would broaden accessibility and allow a wider audience to experience this innovative feature without the need for a premium Pixel device.
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