Graphene OS
Privacy and security hardened mobile OS.
Open the official app on grapheneos.org
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Use it free
Open the official tool or demo — no account needed.
Self-host it
Run the open-source version on your own infrastructure.
What is Graphene OS?
GrapheneOS is a privacy- and security-focused open-source mobile operating system designed to enhance the safety of Android applications while maintaining compatibility with the Android ecosystem. Developed as a non-profit project since 2014 (formerly known as CopperheadOS), it addresses critical vulnerabilities in traditional mobile OS architectures by integrating advanced security technologies. The platform targets users concerned with data privacy, including activists, journalists, and developers, by mitigating risks such as data leaks, unauthorized access, and exploit-based attacks. It solves the problem of balancing security measures with user experiences, ensuring features like sandboxing and permission controls do not disrupt daily usage.
How it works
GrapheneOS is an open-source mobile OS built on Android's foundation, prioritizing privacy and security through architectural changes. It was created to provide a secure alternative to mainstream mobile operating systems by addressing fundamental vulnerabilities in Android's design. The project’s primary purpose is to harden the OS against exploits by improving sandboxing, refining permission models, and implementing mitigations for common attack vectors. It aims to protect both the system and apps without requiring users to manually configure security settings. GrapheneOS enhances security through features like a hardened memory allocator (hardened_malloc), improved sandboxing for apps, and granular permission controls. It also includes mitigations for privilege escalation and kernel vulnerabilities, such as restricted USB access when the device is locked. The platform’s security boundaries are designed to prevent unauthorized data sharing between apps and system components.
How to use it
- 1Download the official WebUSB installer from the GrapheneOS website or follow the command-line guide if using a Linux-based system with fastboot and OpenSSH. 2. Connect your Google Pixel device in bootloader mode and execute the installation script. 3. Flash the OS using the provided tools, ensuring all steps align with the latest release notes. 4. Reboot the device and verify the installation via the recovery menu. Practical tips include using the official chat channel for troubleshooting, avoiding third-party installation guides, and ensuring your device is unlocked during the process. Always check the GitHub repository for the most up-to-date installation instructions.
What it can do
- private android
Use cases
Assumptions and limitations
Assumptions
- source: https://github.com/GrapheneOS
- license: MIT — free to use
- privacy: Self-hosted — you control your data
Limitations
- Limited to Google Pixel devices due to hardware-specific optimizations
- Requires technical knowledge for installation and advanced configuration
- Ongoing development may introduce compatibility issues with newer Android versions
- Performance trade-offs in security-critical features may affect resource-intensive apps
- Smaller community support compared to mainstream OSes like LineageOS
Understanding the result
Privacy and security hardened mobile OS.
Tool details
- Clearly flagged when a network request is needed.
- No account, no sign-up, and no tracking of your content.
- Powered by (MIT).
- Built with
- (https://github.com/GrapheneOS)
- License
- MIT
- Runs locally
- No — requires a network request
- Verification
- Not yet verified
- Input
- Query
- Output
- Text
Built with https://github.com/GrapheneOS. OpenToolVault provides the discovery and browser interface while crediting the original project maintainers.
- Built with
- License
- MIT
Open-source project
OpenToolVault is an independent directory. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by this project.
References
- / — GitHub Repository
Upstream project · GitHub
- MIT License
Upstream project
Frequently asked
What is GrapheneOS and who should use it?
GrapheneOS is an open-source mobile OS focused on privacy and security, suitable for users prioritizing data protection over stock Android features. It is ideal for journalists, activists, and developers requiring advanced security mitigations without manual configuration. The OS is designed for Google Pixel devices, making it a niche alternative to mainstream OSes.
How does GrapheneOS improve security compared to Android?
GrapheneOS enhances security through architectural changes like a hardened memory allocator (hardened_malloc), improved sandboxing for apps, and granular permission controls. It mitigates common vulnerabilities by restricting USB access when locked, limiting data sharing between apps, and reducing exploit surfaces. These features are documented in its GitHub repository and are part of its open-source development model.
How do I install GrapheneOS on my Pixel device?
To install GrapheneOS, use the official WebUSB installer or command-line guide. Connect your Pixel in bootloader mode, execute the installation script, and flash the OS via fastboot. Verify the installation through the recovery menu. Always follow the latest instructions from the GitHub repository to avoid compatibility issues.
How does GrapheneOS compare to LineageOS or PureOS?
GrapheneOS focuses on security hardening with features like sandboxing and exploit mitigations, while LineageOS prioritizes compatibility and feature parity with Android. PureOS, a Debian-based OS, emphasizes privacy but lacks Android app compatibility. GrapheneOS is unique in its integration of security technologies directly into the Android architecture.
What should I do if the installation fails?
Installation errors often result from incorrect device connection, outdated tools, or incompatible firmware. Ensure your Pixel is in bootloader mode, use the latest version of fastboot and OpenSSH, and check the official chat channel for troubleshooting. Rebooting the device and retrying the process may resolve temporary glitches.