If you own a Poco F3 and want to explore the world of Linux-based mobile OS alternatives, PostmarketOS offers an interesting option. This guide covers everything you need to know about PostmarketOS on Poco F3 — from device compatibility and installation to current status and known issues.
Contents
What is PostmarketOS?Poco F3 OverviewHow to Enter Flash Mode on Poco F3Current Hardware Status and NotesWhat You NeedStep-by-Step Guide: Installing PostmarketOS on Poco F3Step 1: Unlock BootloaderStep 2: Download PostmarketOS ImageStep 3: Install ADB and Fastboot on Your PCStep 4: Boot Poco F3 into Fastboot ModeStep 5: Flash PostmarketOS ImageStep 6: First Boot and SetupTips for Using PostmarketOS on Poco F3Troubleshooting Common IssuesDownload PostmarketOS for Poco F3Contributors and MaintainersFinal Thoughts
What is PostmarketOS?
PostmarketOS is a Linux distribution for smartphones designed to provide a secure, privacy-focused, and long-lasting operating system alternative to Android. It’s based on Alpine Linux and supports various devices, including the Poco F3, although some features might still be under development.
Poco F3 Overview
- Manufacturer: Xiaomi
- Model: POCO F3 (codename: xiaomi-alioth)
- Release Year: 2021
- Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 (Octa-core)
- GPU: Adreno 650
- Display: 1080×2400 AMOLED, 120Hz refresh rate, HDR10+
- Storage: 128/256 GB UFS 3.1
- RAM: 6 or 8 GB
- Original Software: Android 11, upgradable to Android 13
How to Enter Flash Mode on Poco F3
- Fastbootd Mode: From bootloader, run
fastboot reboot fastbooton PC - Bootloader Mode: Hold Power + Volume Down when powering on
- Recovery Mode: Hold Power + Volume Up when powering on
Current Hardware Status and Notes
| Component | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | Works | Supports 90/120Hz modes |
| Battery | Works | |
| Charger | Works | Uses pump driver for charging |
| Storage | Works | UFS 2.0 compatible |
| Touchscreen | Works | Connected via SPI bus |
| GPU | Works | Requires special signed firmware |
| WiFi | Works | Needs ath11k firmware |
| Bluetooth | Works | Requires unsigned firmware |
| NFC | Works | Connected via I2C |
| Modem | Broken | SDX55m modem not supported |
| Sensors | Partial | Some sensors functional; others broken |
| Camera | Partial | EEPROM works but full sensor driver support missing |
What You Need
- Unlocked Bootloader: Your Poco F3 bootloader must be unlocked.
- Backup Your Data: Installing PostmarketOS will erase all existing data. Backup important files.
- A PC with Linux or Windows: For flashing tools and commands.
- PostmarketOS Poco F3 Image: Download the latest build from the official PostmarketOS repository.
- ADB & Fastboot Tools: Installed on your PC to communicate with your phone.
Step-by-Step Guide: Installing PostmarketOS on Poco F3
Step 1: Unlock Bootloader
- Enable Developer Options on your Poco F3 by tapping the build number 7 times in Settings > About Phone.
- Enable OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging in Developer Options.
- Use the official Xiaomi unlocking tool or fastboot commands to unlock your bootloader.
Step 2: Download PostmarketOS Image
- Visit the official PostmarketOS Poco F3 page or GitHub.
- Download the latest compatible image (.img or .zip file).
Step 3: Install ADB and Fastboot on Your PC
- For Windows, download from the official Android SDK platform tools.
- For Linux, install via your package manager (e.g.,
sudo apt install adb fastboot).
Step 4: Boot Poco F3 into Fastboot Mode
- Power off your device.
- Hold Volume Down + Power button simultaneously until Fastboot screen appears.
Step 5: Flash PostmarketOS Image
- Connect your Poco F3 to the PC with a USB cable.
- Open terminal/command prompt on your PC.
- Use the command:
fastboot flash boot <postmarketos-boot.img>fastboot flash system <postmarketos-system.img>fastboot reboot
- Replace
<postmarketos-boot.img>and<postmarketos-system.img>with your downloaded files.
Step 6: First Boot and Setup
- Your Poco F3 will boot into PostmarketOS.
- Follow on-screen instructions to complete setup.
- Choose your preferred Linux desktop environment or window manager.
Tips for Using PostmarketOS on Poco F3
- Some hardware features (like camera or fingerprint) may have limited support.
- Join PostmarketOS community forums or Telegram groups for support.
- Keep your system updated regularly via
apk updateandapk upgrade. - Learn basic Linux commands to fully harness the OS’s potential.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Boot loops or fails to start | Re-flash image, ensure correct files used |
| Wi-Fi not connecting | Check kernel modules, use ip link to verify device |
| Touchscreen unresponsive | Try recalibrating or check drivers |
| Battery drains quickly | Adjust CPU frequency scaling settings |
Download PostmarketOS for Poco F3
- Official PostmarketOS website: postmarketos.org
- GitHub repository for Poco F3 builds: GitHub PostmarketOS Poco F3
Contributors and Maintainers
- Main Contributors: Nikroks, RodoMa92, Weijia
- Maintainer: Nikroks
- Active Users Testing: Lucacraft89, TheNXGuy, Weijia
Final Thoughts
PostmarketOS offers an incredible alternative for Poco F3 users who want to step outside the Android ecosystem. While it’s still evolving, it promises a more private, lightweight, and customizable experience. By following this guide carefully, you can safely install and start exploring PostmarketOS on your Poco F3 today.
