MahalaOS is a privacy-first mobile Linux OS designed for real people — not just developers. Mahala means "free" in Setswana. That's what your phone should be.
Setting up your device…
Why MahalaOS
Built on postmarketOS with GNOME Mobile, MahalaOS adds the polish that makes the difference between a project and a daily driver.
No Google. No data harvesting. No telemetry you didn't agree to. Your device, your data.
Guided setup wizard, working calls, WhatsApp via Waydroid. Designed to pass the "bought it in a shop" test.
Open source, community-driven, built on upstream postmarketOS. No lock-in, no subscriptions.
Designed to run on supported devices you already own or can buy second-hand. Extend the life of your hardware.
Fixed call audio, proper SIM detection, carrier-tested across UK networks. The basics, done properly.
Fixes go back to postmarketOS. MahalaOS makes the ecosystem better for everyone, not just our users.
How to install
MahalaOS installs on top of postmarketOS. You'll need an unlocked bootloader and about 20 minutes.
Download the latest postmarketOS edge image for your device from the official pmOS installer.
Pull the overlay repository onto your device via SSH.
git clone https://github.com/MahalaOS/MahalaOS
The install script applies the overlay, enables services, and launches the setup wizard on next boot.
sudo ./install.sh
Connect to WiFi, set up your SIM, install WhatsApp — the wizard walks you through everything.
MahalaOS is actively tested on the OnePlus 6T. Any device supported by postmarketOS with GNOME Mobile should work.
Installing at scale? MahalaOS is designed to be deployed by repair shops and installers. Get in touch →
Get involved
MahalaOS is a community project. Whether you write code, file bugs, or just want to help test — there's a place for you.
Browse open issues, send a patch, or help port MahalaOS to a new device. All skill levels welcome.
View on GitHub →Found something broken? File a detailed issue and help us make the daily driver experience better.
Open an issue →Run a repair shop or refurbisher? We're building a distribution network. Let's talk about partnership.
Get in touch →