this post was submitted on 24 Apr 2026
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Linux is a family of open source Unix-like operating systems based on the Linux kernel, an operating system kernel first released on September 17, 1991 by Linus Torvalds. Linux is typically packaged in a Linux distribution (or distro for short).

Distributions include the Linux kernel and supporting system software and libraries, many of which are provided by the GNU Project. Many Linux distributions use the word "Linux" in their name, but the Free Software Foundation uses the name GNU/Linux to emphasize the importance of GNU software, causing some controversy.

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Regardless of the distribution, would it be possible to have a phone that can be simplified to include only the features you want? For example, I would only want a calendar, notes, a calculator, calls and messages. I wouldn’t want a browser, an app store or any other way to easily install them. Is this possible on a Linux mobile distro? Does it require a lot of work, like making a specific distro for it?

Linux feels like a great option for this because it can leave enough freedom to dumb down what you don't need while also keeping a big level of customization, not everyone needs are the same regarding to dumbphones

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[–] uuj8za@piefed.social 5 points 1 day ago (1 children)

I just started experimenting with SailfishOS, a Linux (non-Android) OS for phones. It's got an app store, but since it's not Android the app selection is pretty limited. I was actually wondering if this could be a compromise between full smartphone and full dumbphone.

I am able to run some Android apps, by installing them through F-Droid, like Bitwarden, but it seems like I wouldn't be able to install Facebook I think? Idk. Literally just got this SailfishOS phone from Jolla Devices yesterday.

[–] MalReynolds@slrpnk.net 6 points 1 day ago (1 children)

seems like I wouldn’t be able to install Facebook I think

Bonus.

[–] uuj8za@piefed.social 4 points 1 day ago

I know, right! That's a feature! This... might.... just be able to get me off of Whatsapp. I recently learned about Molly, an open source Signal client. They have a F-Droid repo.....

If you can install actual Google Play store apps, please don't tell me. I don't want to know. Lalalalalalala. 🙉🙉🙉🙉