How to Set up Ubuntu in Android using termux

Verna June 17, 2026

 To run Ubuntu on Android without voiding your warranty, the easiest and most popular method is using Termux combined with proot to run the OS in a container, and VNC Viewer for the graphical interface. [1, 2]

Requirements:
  • An Android device with at least 4 GB of RAM and 10 to 20 GB of free storage. [1, 2]
Step 1: Install Required Apps
  1. Download and install Termux (available via F-Droid).
  2. Download and install VNC Viewer from the Google Play Store. [1, 2]
Step 2: Set Up the Ubuntu Environment in Termux
Open the Termux app and run the following commands sequentially to update the environment, install the proot tool, and download Ubuntu: [1, 2, 3, 4]
bash
pkg update -y && pkg upgrade -y
Use code with caution.
Install proot-distro (the tool that manages Linux distributions): [1, 2, 3]
bash
pkg install proot-distro -y
Use code with caution.
Install Ubuntu using proot-distro: [1]
bash
proot-distro install ubuntu
Use code with caution.
Step 3: Log in and Install a Desktop Environment
Once the installation finishes, launch your Ubuntu instance: [1]
bash
proot-distro login ubuntu
Use code with caution.
Now that you are inside the Ubuntu terminal, update its packages and install the lightweight XFCE desktop environment: [1]
bash
apt update && apt upgrade -y
apt install xfce4 xfce4-goodies tightvncserver -y
Use code with caution.
Step 4: Start the Desktop Interface
  1. Start the VNC server to generate the visual output:
    bash
    vncserver
    Use code with caution.
  2. You will be prompted to create a password (remember this for later).
  3. The server will output a port number (usually localhost:1 or localhost:5901). [1, 2]
Step 5: Connect and View
  1. Open the VNC Viewer app you installed in Step 1.
  2. Tap the "+" (Add) button to create a new connection.
  3. In the Address field, type localhost:5901 (or whatever port number was provided).
  4. Set a Name (e.g., "Ubuntu"), connect, and enter the password you created in Step 4.
  5. You should now see the Ubuntu desktop interface on your screen. [1, 2, 3]
For a step-by-step visual guide on configuring the Ubuntu environment and connecting via VNC, watch this video:
If you want, let me know:
  • What you plan to use Ubuntu for (e.g., coding, server hosting, running specific software)
  • Whether you want to try connecting your phone to an external monitor/keyboard for a full PC experience
I can provide more tailored tools or tips for your specific goals!

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