A few days ago, the launch of the new version of the mobile platform /e/OS 2.6 was announced , which comes with the update to Android 14 for some devices, as well as support improvements, bug fixes and more.
For those unfamiliar with /e/OS, it's a mobile operating system characterized by its focus on user privacy, offering an environment free from Google services. Developed as a fork of LineageOS, this platform eliminates the transfer of telemetry to Google servers and blocks implicit connections, such as those related to network checks, DNS resolution, and time synchronization.
Its independence is enhanced by the inclusion of the microG package, which provides replacements for Google services, and by the use of a Searx-based metasearch service, which anonymizes search queries.
Main new features of /e/OS 2.6
Among the notable new features in this version is the introduction of a beta installer that operates through Chromium-based browsers , using the USB Web API to facilitate system installation on compatible devices.
Another new feature of /e/OS 2.6 is compatibility with new models , including devices such as the Google Pixel 8 Pro, Samsung Galaxy Note10 5G and Sony Xperia 1 V, with official support for the CMF Phone 1 and the introduction of the first Murena Tablet, based on the Google Pixel Tablet.
In addition, the system has updated the firmware of 117 devices to Android 14. The list of devices includes a wide range of models, with the exception of the Fairphone 4 and the Pixel Tablet, which already have an official version. For all other devices, a community firmware version is offered. This means that while users of these devices can obtain the Android 14 update, the process depends on the availability of community versions and compatibility with community development platforms.
The devices include a variety of models from popular brands such as ASUS, F(x)tec, Google Pixel, Lenovo, Motorola, OnePlus, Samsung, Sony, and Xiaomi. The list ranges from older smartphones, like the Google Pixel 2 and OnePlus 5, to more recent models such as the Google Pixel 7 series and Samsung Galaxy A72. Additionally, there are devices like the Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 and various tablet and phone models from Xiaomi and Motorola.
In terms of applications, the camera app now integrates QR and barcode scanning capabilities, while the Photo Manager features clearer organization with the introduction of the Folders tab. The Chromium-based browser has been updated to version 130.0.6723.67, and App Lounge includes improved support for verifying apps with the Exodus Privacy service and sends notifications in the system language.
This version also includes a key improvement to the user experience by reintroducing support for installing Google apps, expanding options for users who rely on certain services within the Google ecosystem.
Among the most recent fixes in /e/OS 2.6, several aspects stand out:
- En App Lounge, when accessing already purchased apps, the details page for installing is now displayed instead of the price, improving the clarity of the interface. Additionally, an anonymous login issue that had affected system stability has been fixed, with the fix included in an automatic update to App Lounge.
- On navigator, support for external intents has been restored, which improves interaction between applications and the default browser. Meanwhile, the application Camera Fixed an issue that caused crashes when accessing photo settings in French and Spanish languages.
- As to parental control, it is now possible to rotate the screen while setting up this functionality without the app returning to the splash screen, making the experience more fluid. Finally, issues with third party app support, restoring the operation of Google applications on the system.
Finally, if you are interested in learning more about it , you can check the details of this new release at the following link.
Download and obtain /e/OS 2.6
For those interested in the /e/OS project , it's important to note that the platform offers broad compatibility with a variety of phones . In total, /e/OS supports approximately 250 phone models, making it an accessible option for many users seeking a privacy-focused alternative without relying on Google services. To check e/OS compatibility on your device, you can use the following link.