Xiaomi Redmi 4X receives unofficial Ubuntu Touch release

Despite all the work on "pure" Linux distributions for smartphones in 2020, Ubuntu Touch is likely still the safest choice for most devices, and the only one ready for complete daily usage on some Android handhelds. The relatively popular Linux distro, initially released several years ago and later abandoned and revived by UBPorts, has received some new devices lately, including OnePlus 3 and Sony Xperia X.

The latest devices to become supported by the OS, although still unofficially, is the Xiaomi Redmi 4X ("santoni", to be precise the one in the not-so-visible cover picture), about six months after its developer first announced that he started working on it.

While some things still need to be fixed, most hardware is already up and running in the release, also thanks to the Halium Android (driver) compatibility layer used by most Ubuntu Touch devices:

Working

• Calls, SMS, mobile data
• Wi-Fi (including hotspot)
• Bluetooth
• Audio
• Vibration and accelerometer
• Camera
• Alarm clock (recently fixed)

Not working

• Flashlight
• Video recording
• Video decoding
• GPS

You can find more information and install instructions in this UBports forum thread:

Xiaomi Redmi 4X (santoni)

This is a port of Ubuntu Touch for the Xiaomi Redmi 4X (santoni). Sources: Kernel: https://github.com/ubports-santoni/android_kernel_xiaomi_santoni Device: Device Tree: https://github.com/ubports-santoni/android_device_xiaomi_santoni…

UBports ForumDanct12

Source: Danct12/Twitter