- Ubuntu Touch is an alternative operating system based on Linux offering complete privacy and control over the device.
- The installation process requires unlocking the bootloader and use UBports Installer to flash the system.
- There is compatibility with devices such as Nexus and PinePhone, although it is advisable to check the supported models before installation.
- If necessary, it can be restored Android on the phone in a simple way using the official image of the manufacturer.
Ubuntu Touch is a Linux-based operating system designed specifically for mobile devices. Although its adoption has not been as massive as Android o iOS, remains an interesting option for those looking for privacy y total control on your phone. Installing Ubuntu Touch may seem like a complicated process, but with the right tools, any user with basic knowledge can do it.
In this guide, we will explain in detail how to install Ubuntu Touch on different devices, including the previous steps necessary, the configuration of the environment and the installation itself. In addition, we will see how restore android in case you want to go back.
Prerequisites before installation
Before starting the installation, it is important to meet certain requirements and prepare the environment correctly:
- Compatible device: Make sure your phone or tablet is compatible with Ubuntu Touch. You can check this on the official Ubuntu Touch website. ubports.
- Charged battery: It is recommended that the device has at least 50% battery to avoid interruptions during the process.
- Backup: Installing Ubuntu Touch will result in the loss of all data on your phone. If you have any important data, please back it up before proceeding.
- Developer mode enabled: Activate the depuration USB on your phone from developer settings.
Unlocking the bootloader
The first step to installing Ubuntu Touch is to unlock the bootloader, which will allow you to modify the operating system on your device. To do this:
- Turn off your phone completely.
- Turn it on in mode Fastboot pressing VOL+, VOL- and power button simultaneously.
- Connect the device to the PC using a USB cable.
- Run the following command in the terminal from your computer:
fastboot oem unlock - On the phone screen, confirm the action by selecting “Yes”.
This process will erase all data on the device, so make sure you have backed up beforehand.
Download and install UBports Installer
UBports Installer is an official tool that makes installing Ubuntu Touch easier. To download it:
- Go to the official page of UBports Installer.
- Download the version corresponding to your operating system (Windows, Linux or macOS).
- Install the application following the instructions instructions of the installer.
Installing Ubuntu Touch on the device
Once UBports Installer is installed, follow these steps:
- Open the program and connect your device to the PC via USB.
- If UBports Installer does not detect your phone automatically, select the “Select device manually” option and choose your model.
- Select the version of Ubuntu Touch you want to install. It is recommended to choose the “Stable” for greater stability.
- Check the recommended options as:
- Wipe Userdata (Delete user data).
- Bootstrap.
- Format system partitions (Format system partitions).
- Click “Install” and wait for the process to finish.
Once the installation is complete, the device will automatically reboot and load Ubuntu Touch.
Installation on PinePhone and PineTab
If you want to install Ubuntu Touch on PinePhone or PineTab devices, the process is slightly different:
- Download the corresponding Ubuntu Touch image from GitLab.
- Flash the image to an SD card using a tool like balenaetcher o Gnome Disk Utility.
- Insert the SD card into your PinePhone or PineTab device.
- Boot the device into mode eMMC and flash the installation.
Return to Android if necessary
If you want to revert to the original version of Android on your device, follow these steps:
- Download the original Android image from the manufacturer's official website.
- Unzip the image on your PC.
- Open a terminal and run:
adb reboot bootloader - Use the command:
sudo ./flash-all.shto restore Android.
Ubuntu Touch is an interesting alternative for those looking for a Linux-based mobile operating system with greater control and privacy. Thanks to tools like UBports Installer, its installation is quite accessible to any user with basic knowledge. It is essential to follow each step carefully and make sure you have a backup in case you want to return to Android in the future.
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