Here's a way to support linux mobile development even if you're forced to use android or ios
LPT: If you're not a fan of where Android or iOS is going but have to use one, buy a used phone to avoid giving money directly to ill-intentioned manufacturers. Then use some of the savings to support Linux Mobile Distro development!
We need to show a market demand for repairable phones and unlocked bootloaders.
8 replies
I refuse to buy any phone new, I always look for one 2-3 years old with verified stable support for lineageOS.
Also a good way to do a little to reduce e-waste. Many slightly older models have stock remaining new-in-box so it isn't always an issue of buying 'used' hardware.
I also just did this and got a refurbished phone for a decent discount compared to buying the same one new.
LineageOS support is an absolute must. I haven't used a stock Android for the last 6-7 years probably.
If it's not new-in-box, yeah, pretty much. I'm happy with my OnePlus-5T.
A good way to check out mobile Linux is through postmarketOS. They have a list of older android phones that the OS can be flashed on to and have a near mainline Linux kernel. I would just give the caveat that since it does not run android then you cannot use android apps unless you use something like Waydroid to emulate.
Been rocking an One plus 6T with /e/OS (love their built in tracker blocker) for 3 years now. Bought it second hand for $75. Can't beat it. Probably my favorite phone for Android Roms
I really really want to buy a linux phone but they aren't much options available. I can't afford librem or pinephone sadly
Pocophone F1 was sold like crazy, at least in my country, and I just got my brother's and I'll be flashing it this weekend.
I tried daily driving a Pinephone for a while but had too many issues. My setup of choice now is to have two phones. I have a OnePlus 6 on stock Android and a OnePlus 6T with postmarketOS. Android for calls and texts as well as some apps, pmOS for experimenting with Linux, coding, remote accessing my PC, file managing, and similar tasks. I got the cheapest Mint Mobile plan on both phones so I can have data and test calling on Linux.