Google is developing official support for Debian Linux on Android devices through a new Terminal app.
Here's What We Know
Discovered by the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), the app utilizes the Android Virtualization Framework (AVF) to run a Debian virtual machine. This innovation will enable users to execute Linux commands in an isolated environment directly on their Android devices.
This feature is set to create new opportunities for developers, allowing them to code and test Android applications right from their phones and tablets, which could significantly enhance the entire Android ecosystem. The Terminal app is expected to be integrated into Android settings, enabling users to load, configure, and operate a Debian virtual machine seamlessly.
Future updates are planned to include features such as disk resizing, port forwarding, and partition recovery. The app is anticipated to be available on Chromebooks, tablets, and Android smartphones, with an official launch likely coinciding with the release of Android 16 next year.