With Linux installed on your Chromebook, you can take advantage of full desktop Linux applications. Installing Linux apps on Chromebook requires knowledge or at least of the command line. There’s no single Google Play store-like website or app where you simply search and install any Linux App you want. Each vendor chooses whatever Linux distribution they wish to support and publish their apps to the respective repositories. You then use mostly command line tools to install the respective Apps. However, with flatpaks and snaps , you can browse and search Linux Apps in similar ways you do with Android or iOS apps.
To open installed applications, use the everything button (search button) and type in the application name. If installed, it should return a result of the installed app. Simply click on it and it should start. It might take time to start if it’s the first app you’ve opened because Chrome OS has to start the Linux container as well which takes a few seconds.
Summarily, you can install Linux apps as;
- . deb file downloaded from software vendor’s website. This is unreliable and hard.
- apt command line Debian package manager. Fast and easy.
- flatpak apps distributed through the flathub.org store.
- snap apps maintained by Canonical and distributed through snapcraft store. Not officially supported on Chromebooks, but works.
Here are several ways of installing Linux apps on Chromebook. Remember you need the terminal app(linux container) for all these methods.
Installing .deb files
Download .deb files from libreoffice website
Now you can find .deb application files from various software vendor websites. For instance, to install LibreOffice, the popular free and open source alternative to MS Office, you visit the libreoffice.org website, then click on download, then select .deb format.
Debian app installer
Normally, once you have downloaded a single .deb file on your Chromebook, you simply double-click on it and the built-in installer will take over.
However, you can also install .deb via commandline. Once the .deb file(sometimes it’s zipped) is downloaded to your Chromebook, move it to the Linux files folder (or sub-folders if you created them) using the Files App. However, I discourage using this method. I tried to install popular software such as Firefox or Libreoffice and failed. For one, I couldn’t find a single .deb file for either software. Secondly, it’s very manual, because even if you got the .deb, you might have to install additional dependencies manually which can be very frustrating. So I gave up on .deb files. But should go down this route, use the following commands to install a .deb file.
$ sudo dpkg -i /path/to/deb/file
$ sudo apt-get install -f
Using Apt command line tool
So far, the easiest way to install Linux apps on your Chromebook is to use the ‘apt’ command line tool. This assumes you’re using the default Debian-based Linux container which is installed by your Chromebook. Apt is software package manager for Debian-based Linux distros. It will install the software package and all its dependencies automatically without additional effort on your part. You simply have to specify the exact package name, otherwise it might fail to find the package name.
apt linux package manager
To install a package, run apt-get install [package name] . You might want to prefix that with ‘sudo’ which gives you root or administrative privileges. Usually the software vendor will specify the exact package name usually on their website, but if you’re not sure, you can run a search first using apt search [package name] which will return a response of possible candidates.
$ sudo apt install firefox-esr
To uninstall the software, simply run;
$ sudo apt-get purge [package name]
Using flatpak
flathub.org, the flatpak app store
Flatpak bills itself as “a next-generation technology for building and distributing desktop applications on Linux”. Flatpak was developed by an independent community of volunteers. The idea behind Flatpak is to enable software developers to write their application once and distribute it across multiple platforms. True to that promise, Flatpak packages are supported across 33 Linux distributions. Flatpak apps can be found from a single app store called Flathub.org .
Flatpak applications can be installed on Chrome OS with the Crostini Linux compatibility layer. However, this is not available to all Chromebooks. Check this list if your device is compatible. My Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Go is definitely supported, so I installed it. If you’re device is compatible, then you can install Flatpak using the following commands;
Install Flatpak using;
$ sudo apt install flatpak
Add the Flathub repository which is the best place to get Flatpak apps;
$ flatpak --user remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo
To complete setup, restart Linux. You can do this by right-clicking the terminal, and then clicking “Shut down Linux” .
Now to install Flatpaks, visit flathub.org , search for your app of interest. Note that your application might not be available as a flatpak because it’s a fairly new package format. If the app you’re interested in is available, click on it and scroll down to under command line instructions. Here you’ll see two commands; one for installing the flatpak and another for starting or running it after installation is successful.
For instance, to install GIMP, the free open source image editor, search for GIMP and open its page, then as you showed under command line instructions, run the following commands;
To install GIMP, run
flatpak install flathub org.gimp.GIMP
Then to open the app, run;
flatpak run org.gimp.GIMP
Installing and running flatpak apps
You can also simply open the installed App by simply searching it using the Everything/search button. In my experience, I find flatpaks are a much more convenient way of installing Linux apps on your Chromebook.
If you run into this error:
flatpak run org.gnome.Lollypop
bwrap: Can't mount proc on /newroot/proc: Operation not permitted
You can resolve this by running the following command on Chrome OS developer shell as per this github issue . You can open the Chrome OS developer shell by hitting ctrl+alt+T on the browser, then give vsh termina .
(termina) chronos@localhost ~ $ lxc config set penguin security.nesting true
Here’s our video tutorial on how to install Full desktop linux apps on your Chromebook;
Using Snaps
snapcraft.io, the snap app store
Snap is an application distribution package developed by Canonical, the company behind Ubuntu operating system. Snap is just like flatpak with the same objective of enabling developers to create apps that work on every Linux distribution. Snaps applications are hosted and distributed from snapcraft store where you can browse and search for various Linux apps.
I got to install snaps on my Chromebook. The experience isn’t as smooth as flatpaks. In fact, Chrome OS or Chromebooks aren’t listed among supported platforms on the official website. However, you can still install snaps on your Chromebook.
$ sudo apt install -y libsquashfuse0 squashfuse fuse snapd
Restart the Linux by right clicking on the terminal app and selecting “Shut down” and then start it. You can then install snaps like;
$ sudo snap install [name of app]
Install and run snap apps
Start the installed app by running its snap name in the terminal. Unlike Flatpak apps, I couldn’t find the installed App by searching with the Everything button. So Snaps seem to work best with fully-blown Linux desktop distributions such as Ubuntu, Arch Linux, Fedora, Linux Mint, CentOS, and Gentoo.
David Okwii is the Editor-in-Chief of Dignited.com and a seasoned tech enthusiast whose journey began in the early 2000s. He started blogging while at university, diving deep into mobile apps, smartphone reviews, and operating systems—from testing Linux distros to tweaking Windows machines. David also explores Chromebooks, experiments with Raspberry Pi projects, and brings hands-on curiosity to every review. With vast experience in Uganda’s tech ecosystem and deep knowledge of Africa’s startup landscape, he offers informed, grounded perspectives on consumer technology. When he’s not writing or tinkering, David enjoys connecting with nature and exploring the outdoors.
Type your email…
Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
Type your email…
The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
Type your email…
