Operating System
CalyxOS
Privacy-focused Android operating system with microG and GrapheneOS security
CalyxOS offers a privacy-conscious alternative in the operating system space, with a stronger focus on data protection than many mainstream tools.
Overview
CalyxOS is a privacy-focused mobile operating system based on Android that emphasizes security and user privacy. The operating system removes Google services and tracking components, replacing them with privacy-respecting alternatives. CalyxOS includes features like verified boot, automatic security updates, and strong app isolation. The operating system supports microG for compatibility with apps that require Google Play Services, but in a privacy-respecting way. CalyxOS is available for Google Pixel devices and provides regular security updates. The operating system is open source and developed by the Calyx Institute, a non-profit organization focused on digital privacy and security. CalyxOS emphasizes user control over data and provides tools to minimize tracking and data collection. The system is free to use and can be installed on supported devices.
Privacy highlight
Privacy-focused mobile OS with no . De-Googled Android with verified boot and automatic updates. and strong security hardening.
Quick facts
- Country:
- 🇺🇸 United States
- Pricing:
- Free
- Platform:
- Desktop, Laptop
- Technical:
- Advanced
- :
- No
- :
- No telemetry
- :
- Yes
- Open-source status:
- Fully open source
- :
- No
- :
- Yes
Key features
- Operating system focused on security and privacy.
Security & encryption Click to expand
- No
- Encryption protocols
- AES-256, ,
- CalyxOS uses Android's built-in mechanisms including full-disk and file-based . The operating system supports hardware-backed key storage when available. keys are managed by the Android KeyStore system. CalyxOS includes additional security hardening beyond standard Android. The operating system uses verified boot and features. Users do not need to manage keys manually as is handled automatically by the system.
- Offline support
- Yes
Telemetry & tracking Click to expand
- No telemetry
- No
- Ip no
- CalyxOS does not collect data by default. The operating system does not include or code. CalyxOS does not track users, collect usage statistics, or monitor device activity. The operating system is designed to minimize and provide users with privacy. Users have complete control over any optional features.
Jurisdiction & compliance Click to expand
- CalyxOS is developed by the Calyx Institute, which is based in the United States. The operating system does not collect or store user data, so there is minimal data residency concern. CalyxOS operates locally on user devices without cloud services. The Calyx Institute operates under US privacy laws and complies with GDPR for European users.
- CalyxOS does not retain user data. The operating system does not collect or store personal information, device identifiers, or usage data. CalyxOS operates locally on user devices without cloud services that would retain data. Users have complete control over their data as it remains on their devices.
- Legal frameworks
- GDPR, CCPA
- Revenue sources
- Donations, Hardware sales
Editorial signals Click to expand
- 90
- Trust score
- 88
- Trust breakdown (0–10)
- Encryption: 90, Audits: 80, Open source: 90, Telemetry: 100, Jurisdiction: 70, Transparency: 85, Trackers: 95
- Editorial notes
- Usability: 80, Performance: 85, Family friendly: 85
User experience Click to expand
- Signup requirements
- none
- Onboarding difficulty (1-5)
- 4
- Accessibility features
- Operating system with accessibility features including keyboard navigation and screen reader support
Backup & portability Click to expand
- Yes
- Migration tools
- Device migration tools, Data export
- Factory reset, Recovery mode
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