Technology

Unlock Infinite Storage! Google Expands Linux Terminal Cap for Pixel Phones

2025-04-21

Author: John Tan

Revolutionizing Linux on Pixel Phones

Big news for Google Pixel enthusiasts! The Android 16 Beta 4 update is here, and it's breaking barriers by lifting the storage limit for the Linux Terminal app. Users can now dive into a full Debian Linux environment without the pesky 16GB cap that was imposed earlier.

From 16GB to Almost Unlimited!

This upgrade allows Pixel users to allocate nearly all of their device's available storage to the Linux virtual machine, leaving just 1GB free to ensure system stability. Say goodbye to the old limitations and hello to vast possibilities!

Seamless Expansion with Future Upgrades

Tinkering with the storage options is a breeze thanks to a new disk resize slider within the app's settings. But that's not all—Google is cooking up an upcoming feature that will introduce a storage ballooning system. This smart functionality will enable the Linux VM to automatically resize based on available space, making it even more user-friendly.

Linux Meets Android in Perfect Harmony

The Linux Terminal app is designed to let users run Linux applications alongside their favorite Android apps. While it won’t replace Android’s native desktop mode, it does provide access to powerful Linux tools right within the Android ecosystem. Tech-savvy users will even have the option to set up full desktop environments like GNOME or KDE Plasma within the VM!

A Few Limitations to Consider

It’s important to note, however, that the app doesn't yet support graphical applications with hardware acceleration or audio output. For now, graphical environments depend on software rendering, which could slow down resource-intensive tasks.

Get Started Today!

Currently available on Pixel devices running Android 16 Beta 4, expanding the Linux VM’s storage is as easy as pie. Users have shared positive feedback, with the increased storage being recognized instantly after a quick restart. Don’t miss out on this exciting update that opens up new avenues for customization and productivity on your Pixel phone!