Google has taken a significant step in integrating advanced tools into Android with the release of a native Linux terminal. This new feature allows running an instance of Debian inside a virtual machine, offering developers and system administrators an efficient way to access Linux environments from their mobile device.
Initially, this terminal is only available on Pixel devices that have received the March 2025 Pixel Feature Drop update. However, it's not yet clear whether Google plans to expand this capability to other manufacturers with future versions of Android.
Why is a Linux terminal important on Android?
While most Android users do not need a Linux environment on their smartphone, For developers and cybersecurity experts, this tool is a great advantage.. It allows you to access advanced commands, automate tasks and perform tests without having to resort to a PC or third-party solutions. This is a feature that is also used by many people who are dedicated to managing Terminal Emulators on Android.
One of the main advantages of this implementation is that runs in a secure virtual machine, which avoids any interference with the main Android operating system and improves stability. It is similar to what can be used on chromeOS.
How to enable native Linux terminal for Android
To access this new functionality, follow these steps:
- Ir a Settings → About phone.
- Press seven times on the build number until developer mode is enabled.
- Ir a Settings → System → Developer options.
- enable option Linux Development Environment.
Once activated, The Linux terminal will appear in the list of applications with the name “Terminal”. When started for the first time, it downloads a Debian image for use.
Available functions and features
Google has integrated various settings and tweaks to optimize the user experience within this Linux terminal. Some of the most notable options include:
- Storage management: Allows you to resize the space allocated to the virtual machine.
- Network Controls: You can configure which networks can connect to the Linux environment.
- Recovery option: Facilitates system restoration in case of failures.
Additionally, Google has mentioned that it is working on improving compatibility with hardware acceleration and graphical environments, which would make the terminal even more versatile in the future. Users are eager to see how this new terminal compares to other tools for viewing system information from the terminal, such as in the case of CPU Fetch.
Will it expand to other devices?
At the moment, the terminal is only available in pixel devices, but there is speculation about a possible expansion when Android 16 is released. If this happens, we could see a significant change in how Android handles advanced development environments, making it easier to access Linux tools without the need for additional software. This could be especially beneficial for those looking for terminal alternatives on their devices.
This new implementation brings Android even closer to the Linux ecosystem, allowing Phones are used as powerful development and server administration tools. This innovation could certainly change the way IT professionals leverage their mobile devices in the future. With more features, such as being able to access Dropbox from the Linux terminal, even more possibilities would open up.
