Google is making strides in the realm of mobile development with plans to introduce a new Linux terminal app designed specifically for developers. This app will run a complete Debian environment, allowing users to execute Linux commands directly on their Android devices, a feature that has been available through the developer options for some time.
Build directly on Android devices
The forthcoming Linux terminal app represents a significant shift in how developers can create Android applications. Instead of relying on emulators that operate on desktop operating systems, this new tool will enable developers to build apps directly on their devices. Utilizing the Android Virtualization Framework, the app will boot into a Debian image running on a virtual machine, providing a comprehensive Linux development environment. This setup will facilitate the use of essential tools, including Android Studio, for native app development.
There’s one hiccup in the plan
Despite the promising capabilities of this new terminal app, there is a notable limitation: Android Studio currently does not support ARM-based CPUs. Consequently, it cannot operate within the Linux development environment on Android devices. For Google to fully realize this vision, it will need to extend ARM support to the Linux version of the Android Studio IDE.
In addition to the development environment, there is exciting news regarding the current Android Canary build, which includes support for Linux GUI applications. Reports indicate that users have successfully run various GUI apps, such as Chromium, GIMP, and LibreOffice, on devices like the Pixel 8 Pro. This advancement not only simplifies the app development process but also opens the door to running full Linux graphical applications, including games, on Android devices. The potential for enhanced productivity is immense, especially when considering the option to dock an Android device to a desktop monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
Release date
While the exact release date for these features remains unclear, it is anticipated that they will first be available on Pixel devices. As Google continues to innovate, the merging of Android and ChromeOS could pave the way for a unified platform that appeals to a diverse range of users, from traditional desktop users to power users and gamers.
