Google is set to revolutionize the Android ecosystem by introducing native Linux app support through a refreshed Terminal application. This development, uncovered in recent Android Open Source Project (AOSP) code changes, promises to bridge the gap between mobile and desktop computing environments.
The new Terminal app leverages Android's Virtualization Framework to run a Linux virtual machine, allowing users to execute Linux commands directly on their Android devices. While currently in a basic form requiring manual configuration, Google plans to streamline the process significantly.
Key features of the upcoming Terminal app include:
- Integration with the existing LinuxInstaller utility
- Ability to download, set up, and run Debian Linux instances
- Enhanced Virtualization Framework supporting VM snapshots and nested virtualization
- Compatibility with both ARM and x86 processors
- Planned settings for disk resizing, port forwarding, and partition recovery
This move by Google could be particularly beneficial for developers, enabling them to run Linux tooling, command-line utilities, and even full-fledged development environments like Android Studio on their mobile devices. As the lines between Chrome OS and Android continue to blur, this feature may position Android as a more viable platform for desktop-class development.
While the exact release date for the Terminal app and Linux virtualization support remains unknown, speculation suggests it may arrive with Android 16. This development underscores Google's commitment to expanding Android's capabilities and appeal to a broader range of users, especially in the developer community.
As mobile devices become increasingly powerful, the ability to run Linux apps on Android could open up new possibilities for productivity and development on-the-go, further blurring the lines between mobile and desktop computing environments.
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| The new Terminal app on Android is set to support Linux applications, bringing mobile and desktop computing closer together |