charch
ChArch stands as an innovative Magisk module designed to facilitate the execution of Arch Linux within a chroot setup on Android gadgets. This approach allows users to operate a complete Linux distribution parallel to their Android system, offering opportunities for software experimentation, coding tasks, or accessing utilities exclusive to Linux environments. By leveraging Magisk’s systemless modification features, it avoids permanent changes to the device’s core files, ensuring easy reversibility and compatibility with over-the-air updates.
Crafted by tytydraco, this module appears in version v1.0, with an initial launch date of October 5, 2020. It accommodates a variety of rooting frameworks such as Magisk, KSU, APatch, and KSUNext, making it suitable for numerous rooted configurations. Drawing from the foundational ChArch script, it emphasizes seamless integration for ARM-based devices, enabling enthusiasts to expand their mobile experience beyond standard Android limitations. While the repository provides basic setup files, including a Makefile for building and a customize.sh for installation logic, it focuses on delivering a patched implementation tailored for Android’s unique architecture.
Key Features
- Establishment of an Arch Linux root filesystem through automated scripting during module activation.
- Support for supplementary init systems via companion modules like ChArch OpenRC, Dinit, or SSHD for enhanced chroot management.
- Systemless operation via Magisk, preserving the integrity of the original Android partition.
- Compatibility with Android’s ARM architectures, ideal for smartphones and tablets.
- Integration of essential patches to handle Android-specific quirks in the chroot process.
- Potential for running desktop-grade applications or servers within the confined Linux space.
- Open-source nature under GPL-3.0, inviting community contributions and customizations.
Installation Guide
Begin by confirming your device runs Magisk version 20 or above, with root access enabled. Retrieve the module ZIP from the designated GitHub releases section. Launch the Magisk application, head to the modules tab, and choose the option to install from storage. Select the downloaded file and proceed with the installation. A reboot will be required to initialize the module fully. Post-reboot, the chroot environment should be prepared; users may need to execute terminal commands like “charch” to enter the Arch shell. For optimal setup, ensure sufficient storage space, as the rootfs download can occupy several hundred megabytes. If issues arise, check log files in /data/adb/modules/charch for debugging insights.
Functionality and Usefulness
In terms of operation, ChArch utilizes its customize.sh script during installation to orchestrate the creation of the Arch Linux environment. This involves detecting the device’s architecture, downloading a bootstrap tarball from official Arch mirrors, extracting it to a dedicated directory (typically /data/charch/rootfs), and configuring essential mounts such as /proc, /sys, /dev, and /tmp for proper functionality within the chroot. It applies Android-specific patches to handle differences in kernel behaviors, ensuring processes like networking and file access work smoothly. Without a service.sh for ongoing runtime tasks, the module likely relies on post-install hooks to maintain the setup across reboots, allowing users to bind mount directories or share storage between Android and the chroot. This streamlined process minimizes user intervention while providing a robust foundation for Linux operations.
The value of ChArch lies in its ability to transform an Android device into a versatile computing tool, appealing to developers, sysadmins, and hobbyists alike. For instance, it enables running command-line tools, compiling code, or even hosting lightweight services without needing a separate computer, which is particularly beneficial for on-the-go productivity or testing cross-platform software. By bridging Android and Linux ecosystems, it extends device lifespan on older hardware, supports educational pursuits in system administration, and fosters experimentation with Arch’s rolling-release model. Potential drawbacks include increased battery drain from background processes or compatibility hiccups on non-standard ROMs, but overall, it empowers users to unlock advanced capabilities, promoting a more flexible and powerful mobile experience.
Compatibility Details
ChArch functions effectively on rooted Android devices from version 7.0 onward, with a focus on ARM64 architectures common in modern smartphones. It integrates seamlessly with Magisk’s framework and extends support to alternatives like KSU and APatch for broader root method compatibility. Users on custom ROMs may experience smoother performance, though testing is advised for stock firmwares. Companion modules for init systems enhance usability, but the base setup requires no additional dependencies beyond root access. Note that updates to Android versions might necessitate module refreshes, and it’s optimized for stable environments rather than experimental kernels.
Additional Notes
For those seeking to customize further, explore related repositories such as charch_dinit or charch_openrc, which add specific init handlers to the chroot. The project’s GPL-3.0 license encourages forking and modifications, with source available for review. Community discussions on platforms like Telegram’s Magisk modules channels can offer troubleshooting tips. If expanding the rootfs, monitor storage usage to avoid conflicts with Android apps. Contributions to the alt-repo are welcome, adhering to standard pull request guidelines.
Download Link
Module Info
- Version charch-v1.0
- Module By
- Contributors tytydraco
- Root SupportMagisk KernelSU APatch
- Source View on GitHub/Source
- Latest Update
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charch is a Module that supports installation on Magisk, KernelSU, APATCH, KSUNext