Published release of CalyxOS 8.0: Android 17 is here
The newly released CalyxOS 8.0 is a firmware based on the Android platform, offering a unique approach by being free of ties to Google services and providing additional tools to enhance privacy and security. The latest release has been translated to the Android 17 code base and is available in builds for Pixel 5-10, Fairphone 4-6, Motorola Moto G32-G84, and SHIFTphone 8 devices.
Instead of relying on Google services, CalyxOS provides a set of microG with an alternative implementation of the Google Play API, Google Cloud Messaging, and Google Maps, without the need for proprietary Google components. Location is determined via Wi-Fi and base stations using services like Positon or BeaconDB, and addresses are converted into locations using Nominatim from the OpenStreetMap project.
For network access control, the firewall Datura is utilized to limit access based on individual applications, connection methods, and activity. The default browser is Calyx Chromium with the DuckDuckGo search engine, and Tor Browser is available as an option. Users can install applications through F-Droid and Aurora Store.
Other features of CalyxOS include:
- Performance interface calls through Signal and WhatsApp with end-to-end encryption.
- Default blocking of unknown USB devices.
- Ability to turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, microphone, and camera after inactivity.
- Mode for blocking network access of newly installed applications.
- Profiles to separate work and personal activities.
- Integrated support for VPN with pre-installed applications for Tor and