Android is based on the Linux kernel, but it includes a number of proprietary components that make it different from other Linux distributions.

Today, Linux on Mobile has gained some significant traction. Organizations like PinePhone and Purism are working on devices to get a product with smooth hardware and software compatibility. It still has a small user share, unlike Android and iOS.

The increasing popularity of FOSS, and the growing demand for security, privacy, and customizability in mobile devices is something that is driving the development. The increasing popularity of cloud computing is making it easier to develop and deploy Linux-based apps.

Some of the challenges include the lack of support from major device manufacturers and a limited app and SDK ecosystem. There are few projects working on these challenges.

We as a part of PearTree(peartree.to) are contributing upstream to this project, Phosh (phosh.mobi) which is maintained by Purism SPC and under GNOME. I will be also discussing our case study of contributing to Phosh as an early-stage startup.

We think that this has a number of advantages that could make it a viable alternative to Android and iOS in the future.