UserLAnd
Linux on Android

How to run a Linux desktop on Android

In UserLAnd, tap a distribution, choose Graphical as the connection type, and pick a desktop environment. UserLAnd starts a VNC server and opens the desktop in its built-in viewer, so you can run graphical Linux apps like GIMP or Firefox with touch, a keyboard and a mouse.

Get it on Google PlayUserLAnd

Step by step

  1. Install UserLAnd

    Get UserLAnd free from Google Play.

  2. Tap a distribution

    On the Apps tab, tap a distribution such as Ubuntu or Debian.

  3. Set a VNC password

    Along with your username and password, enter a VNC password of 6 to 8 characters.

  4. Choose Graphical and a desktop

    Pick Graphical, then a desktop environment. The default desktop is free; LXDE and XFCE come with UserLAnd Pro.

  5. Use the desktop

    The built-in VNC viewer opens. A toolbar gives you input modes and extra keys; physical keyboards, modifier keys and mouse buttons work too.

What you get

  • A built-in VNC viewer: no extra app needed
  • Touch and touchpad-style input modes
  • Physical keyboard modifier keys and mouse buttons
  • LXDE and XFCE desktops with UserLAnd Pro
  • Sound and microphone with UserLAnd Pro

Frequently asked questions

Which desktop environment should I choose?

Start with the default desktop to keep downloads small. If you want a full desktop with a panel and menus, LXDE and XFCE are available with UserLAnd Pro.

Can I use an external monitor, keyboard and mouse?

Yes. UserLAnd's VNC viewer handles physical keyboards, modifier keys and mouse buttons, which makes a phone and monitor a workable Linux desktop.

Is there a faster way to run one graphical app?

Yes. Our standalone apps on Google Play, such as GIMP and LibreDocs, each open straight into one program with no desktop to manage. See Linux apps on Android.

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