Activities/Android

Android is a free operating system mostly developed by Google. Unfortunately, the drivers for most devices and most applications from the "market" are non-free. This page collects information about running an Android system as free as possible.

The Operating System

Replicant OS

Replicant is a distribution of Android that is 100% Free Software. It runs only on a very limited number of devices. If you have one of these devices, then this is your choice.

CyanogenMod

CyanogenMod is the most popular aftermarket distribution for Android. It runs on many phones and offers features not found in the official Android based firmwares of vendors. It also ships without Google applications and gives you more freedom over your device. CyanogenMod is Free Software developed by an active community. It still requires non-free device drivers and firmware which is fetched from your device before flashing.

In order to install CyanogenMod, your device needs to be rooted, but that is something that you probably want to do anyway. Some manufacturers consider your warranty void when your device is rooted. The Wiki of CyanogenMod contains detailed instructions on how to install it.

The Apps

F-Droid

Freeing Non-Free Apps