In a previous article We talk about the alternatives we have when the mobile operating system version becomes obsolete. Now we will look at some open source applications for Android.
Many of these applications can be found in the Google store, others are downloaded from alternative stores or from repositories. In the latter case, they must be installed manually.
Differences between open source and non-open source applications
Although many already know this, as new people always join, we will briefly explain the differences:
- Transparency: The code is available to everyone so anything weird the developers want to put in (like spyware or malware) is easily detectable.
- Community: Since the projects are volunteer-driven, the features of the application will not be governed by the market.
- Safety: It arises from the two previous points
- lower cost: Many of the apps on this list are free, and those that aren't charge for extra services that don't affect the core functionality.
- Support for longer to older devices
With respect to proprietary applications, the advantages can be:
- More resources: Generally, the developers of open source applications are volunteers who program in their spare time, whereas proprietary applications are usually backed by companies that can pay full-time programmers.
- Updates: This makes it easier for them to publish new versions more frequently.
- Better user experience: The issue of full-time developers influences the fact that resources can be dedicated to non-essential things such as the graphical interface.
- Support for more devices: As a result of all the above, it is easier for them to adapt more quickly to the new features of the new versions of Android.
Some open source apps for Android
Cryptocam
Name is quite descriptive in itself. A camera that takes photos or records videos and then encrypts them. Once done, the unencrypted content is deleted. Ideal for situations where recording is not allowed or no one needs to know you did it. Also if you are one of those people who sends attachments to the wrong people.
The application has a complete tutorial to encrypt or decrypt the captured content.
Chronos
Es A digital clock with alarms and custom backgrounds which has granular controls (whatever that is) everywhere. Works both horizontally and vertically. Includes several pre-installed ringtones.
OpenContacts
If you don't want Google (or your partner) to see your contacts, This application It stores them in its own database separate from the one used by the Android contacts app.d. No external application will be able to see them. In any case, you can transfer contacts between the two applications.
It works together with the calling application so that contacts that are only on your list will be identified when they receive your call.
KOReader
Es a document reader developed primarily for Android-based readers.
Some of its characteristics are:
- Multi platform: Works on ebook readers such as Cervantes, Kindle, Kobo, PocketBook or reMarkable, computers running Linux or Android.
- Multiformat: The program can read fixed page formats (PDF, DjVu, CBT, CBZ) and adjustable e-book formats (EPUB, FB2, Mobi, DOC, RTF, HTML, CHM, TXT). It has partial support for the Zip format and it is possible to make it read scanned documents with the addition of additional libraries.
- Configurable display: You can set margins and change fonts among other settings.
- Integration with Calibre: You can view the book collection, install them and see their information.
- Optimized for e-book readers: The interface has no animations but features adapted to the screens of these devices such as paginated menus, adjustable text contrast and zoom.
- Optimized for old devices.
FairEmail
Es a Open source application for sending and receiving emailIt places a strong emphasis on privacy and works with the most popular email services. It has a basic version and a paid version.