PROJECT 02 // PLANNED
ANDROID // LINUX // CUSTOM ENCLOSURE
Turning an Android phone into a portable Linux cyberdeck using reused hardware, a physical keyboard and a custom 3D printed enclosure.
01 // CURRENT STATE
The Android Cyberdeck project started with a simple idea: instead of buying another single-board computer, why not reuse a smartphone that I already have?
The goal is to turn an Android phone into a small, portable cyberdeck with a physical keyboard, a Linux environment and a custom enclosure. Rather than building something purely for display, I want it to be a usable little computer that I can experiment with, carry around and continue modifying over time.
One of the main goals of the project is to reuse as much hardware as possible and keep the cost low. The phone will provide the display, battery and computing hardware, while the rest of the build will focus on adding physical controls, USB connectivity and eventually a custom enclosure.
The project is currently in the planning and prototyping stage. I’m experimenting with different phones, Linux options, keyboards, USB and power connectivity, and ideas for the enclosure.
This page will grow alongside the project as the first prototype comes together.
02 // UPDATES
UPDATE 001 // LINUX TEST
I tested whether the Redmi A3 could run a usable Linux environment using Termux, Debian and Proot. The test confirmed that the basic idea works and gave me a starting point for the cyberdeck software setup.
Read the full Lab Note → Can the Xiaomi Redmi A3 Run Linux?
03 // NEXT STEPS
// Choose the final phone
// Test Linux environment
// Finalize keyboard and USB setup
// Design the first enclosure prototype
// 3D print and test fit
Check back once in a while to see how the project is progressing and what’s been added.
PROJECT STATUS: PLANNED
STARTED: 2026
LAST UPDATED: SEPTEMBER 2026