LineageOS, born in 2016 as a successor to the CyanogenMod project, has consistently delivered a stock-like Android experience while offering the freedom to go Google-free. Through numerous major updates, LineageOS has extended its support to a wide range of smartphones and tablets. Now, with the official release of LineageOS 20 based on Android 12, users can expect a refined and feature-rich custom ROM experience. Let's explore what this latest iteration brings to the table.
Installation: Seamlessly Tailored to Your Device
The installation process for LineageOS 20 may vary depending on your specific device. In our case, we installed it on a OnePlus 6, a device that no longer receives official updates beyond Android 11. Hence, LineageOS 20 enables users to experience the latest Android version through custom ROMs. Our installation involved booting into TWRP recovery, performing a wipe, and then flashing LineageOS. While we opted for a Google-free experience, it is possible to install Google apps if desired.
It's important to note that custom ROMs, including LineageOS, do not pass Google's SafetyNet tests by default. Consequently, certain applications may refuse to run, and some may even be hidden from Play Store search results, such as Netflix. To overcome this limitation, users can employ Magisk to pass SafetyNet. However, it's worth mentioning that tinkering with such modifications can lead to unpredictable results, so proceed with caution.
LineageOS: Recovery & Updates Made Easy
LineageOS 20 introduces the LineageOS Recovery, a dedicated recovery environment integrated seamlessly with the ROM. This official recovery allows for easy installation of subsequent updates directly from within the system. Offering essential management features without unnecessary bloat, LineageOS Recovery simplifies the maintenance of your installation.
First Boot & Setup: Familiar and User-Friendly
The initial setup process in LineageOS 20 closely resembles that of any other Android device. The setup wizard guides you through selecting language, timezone, fingerprint enrollment, and even offers the option to restore data from another LineageOS-based device. If you choose to install Google apps, you will also be guided through the process of restoring your Google account and associated apps.
Launcher & App Drawer: A Streamlined Experience
Upon completing the setup, you will encounter Trebuchet, the default home screen launcher in LineageOS 20. Trebuchet is a modified version of the AOSP launcher, Launcher3, with added features like icon pack support. It offers a user-friendly interface similar to the Pixel Launcher, allowing for a smooth and intuitive experience. Notably, Trebuchet also enables the option to hide apps from the launcher through a keyguard, ensuring privacy and organization. LineageOS 20 introduces new wallpapers designed with Material You aesthetics in mind, further enhancing the visual appeal.
Lockscreen: Security Meets Simplicity
The lockscreen in LineageOS 20 adheres to the standard Android design found across various devices. While it offers no groundbreaking features, one notable option is the ability to scramble the PIN layout, preventing shoulder-surfers from easily identifying your input. Although this feature may cause a slight delay in locating the correct numbers, it provides an added layer of security.
Notifications & Settings: Embracing Android 12's Visual Language
LineageOS 20 embraces the visual style of Android 12 throughout the system, featuring vibrant tiles and an expansive brightness bar. If you desire the complete Android 12 look and feel, LineageOS 20 delivers precisely that. The settings app retains its familiar layout, ensuring a seamless experience for anyone accustomed to using
an Android smartphone.
Stock Apps: A Comprehensive Lineup
While Android itself is open-source, many essential applications required for a complete smartphone experience are not. Consequently, LineageOS fills the gap by updating or replacing numerous system applications that have been abandoned by Google. It's important to note that LineageOS offers a comprehensive set of stock apps, tailored to provide a complete out-of-the-box experience. However, if you choose to install Google apps, some LineageOS stock apps may be replaced.
AudioFX: Fine-Tune Your Sound Experience
LineageOS 20 includes the long-standing AudioFX app, which serves as an integrated equalizer with various audio profiles. Offering features such as reverb and bass boost, AudioFX allows users to customize their sound output according to their preferences. Fans of LineageOS will instantly recognize this app, as it has been a staple of the ROM for years.
Calendar: Streamlined and Functional
LineageOS 20 incorporates the same Calendar application introduced in previous iterations. Derived from the open-source Etar Calendar, which itself is based on AOSP Calendar, LineageOS's version offers a visually appealing interface. It seamlessly displays calendars synced to your device using Android's built-in CalDAV provider, ensuring a smooth user experience.
Camera: Enhanced Capture Capabilities
LineageOS 20 has replaced the previous Snapdragon Camera app with Camera2, offering improved camera functionality. Users can expect enhanced performance and additional features for capturing memorable moments.
Clock: Time Management at Your Fingertips
The Clock app in LineageOS 20 closely resembles the clock app found on Google Pixel smartphones, providing a familiar and intuitive experience. From setting alarms and timers to viewing the time, this app covers all your time-related needs.
Jelly Browser: Privacy-Focused Web Browsing
Jelly Browser, a long-standing favorite among LineageOS users, continues its presence in LineageOS 20. This well-designed browser prioritizes privacy and offers useful features to enhance your web browsing experience.
Recorder: Meeting Your Audio Recording Needs
The Recorder app in LineageOS 20 serves as a reliable tool for basic audio recording requirements, ensuring that you can effortlessly capture audio whenever needed.
Features: Unleash the Full Potential
LineageOS 20 retains and builds upon the comprehensive feature set introduced in previous versions. Users can extensively customize the status bar, with options for clock and battery styles, as well as a network traffic monitor. Another noteworthy feature is system profiles, allowing users to define triggers that modify system settings, akin to Bixby Routines on Samsung devices or Shortcuts on iOS. These features empower users to tailor their devices to their unique preferences and streamline their day-to-day activities.
Custom Button Actions: Unprecedented Control
LineageOS 20 offers an array of options for customizing your device's buttons, surpassing what is available in stock Android and most OEM skins. With the default three-button navigation bar, users can assign custom actions to holding down or double-tapping the Home button, as well as long-pressing the Recents button. Additionally, physical buttons like the power button and volume rocker can be assigned to control various functions, such as turning the flashlight on or off, answering calls, or managing music playback. LineageOS 20 provides an extensive range of options that are unparalleled in other ROMs.
LineageOS Trust: Centralized Security
LineageOS 20 introduces Trust, a centralized interface located in the Security and Privacy settings. Trust serves as a hub for LineageOS's security features, offering an overview of core security components like Privacy Guard and providing guidance on securing your device and safeguarding your data.
Volume Slider Animation: Enhanced User Experience
In LineageOS
20, the volume slider receives a significant visual improvement. The slider now slides out from the right-hand side, revealing two additional panes for adjusting alarm and notification sound. This design choice offers a cleaner and less obtrusive experience compared to the bottom overlay found on Pixel devices.
Getting LineageOS 20
To acquire and install LineageOS 20, refer to our comprehensive article covering the ROM's launch. We provide a table listing officially supported devices, but if your device is not included, it's worth checking our forums. Unofficial versions developed by the community may be available now or in the future, and many of them have reached a stable state suitable for daily use, with only minor quirks.
