Operating Systems
Alternative operating systems for old and new devices.
Linux-based
postmarketOS
IMO: The full Linux experience for mobile devices. If you are looking to turn your old device into a Raspberry Pi++, this is it. Many thanks to the postmarketOS team and to all of the contributors for supporting (and mainlining!) hundreds of devices. Of course, current level of functionality for each device varies widely.
Ubuntu Touch
IMO: Very smooth UI, solid basic apps, and very pleasant experience overall. Due to its design, running "regular" Linux GUI apps requires setting up an abstraction layer. Does not support VoLTE at all.
Droidian
IMO: The more "pragmatic" approach to mobile Linux. Droidian re-uses the same vendor-provided Android Linux kernels.
Maemo Leste
IMO: Old-school OS from Nokia N900 days
Android-based
Operating systems based on Android Open Source Project (AOSP)
Replicant
IMO: For hardcode free software enthusiasts - there are no proprietary blobs, so much of the original device functionality does not work (built-in WiFi, GPS, 3D graphics).
GrapheneOS
IMO: Android-as-it-should-be, clean, independent of (but can still use) Google services, and with multiple improved security features. Comes with original AOSP apps, which look outdated and might have less functionality than modern counterparts.
LineageOS
IMO: Clean Android with updated basic apps. Can run with or without Google Play Services, but does not officially support microG.
CalyxOS
IMO: LineageOS + microG, with many privacy features and privacy-focused default apps
DivestOS
IMO: A combination of LineageOS + microG and GrapheneOS hardening that supports a surprising number of older devices.
/e/OS
IMO: Clearly leaning into privacy-as-a-service space. Professional, consistent appearance (facelifted FOSS apps), runs their own servers and services, and sells smartphones with preinstalled /e/OS.
iodéOS
IMO: Another commercial privacy-as-a-service product, which is essentially LineageOS + microG with FOSS apps and built-in blocking and parental controls.
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