Tiny Computer APK (Engine Replacement) – Run Debian Desktop on Android (Android 9+ ARM64)
Tiny Computer APK is a powerful engine replacement app for Android 9 and above (ARM64 devices) that lets you run a real Linux desktop environment directly on your phone or tablet. Instead of being limited to mobile apps, Tiny Computer makes it possible to install and use PC-grade software like WPS Office, CAJ Viewer, EdrawMax, and many other Debian applications—without needing Termux.
If you’ve ever wanted to turn your Android device into a mini PC with a full desktop interface, Tiny Computer APK is built exactly for that purpose.
What is Tiny Computer APK?
Tiny Computer APK is an Android tool that allows users to run a Linux container (Debian-based) with a desktop environment such as:
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XFCE
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LXQt
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And other lightweight Linux desktops
With just one click, it can launch a working Debian system on Android, giving you access to a familiar desktop-style experience with windows, menus, file management, and productivity tools.
Originally, Tiny Computer was designed mainly for Chinese users who wanted to run desktop apps like WPS Office, which is extremely popular in China. Because of that, the app comes with several useful tools preinstalled—especially for Chinese input and productivity.
Key Highlights of Tiny Computer APK
✅ Works on Android 9+ ARM64 Devices
Tiny Computer is specifically built for ARM64 devices running Android 9 and newer, which covers most modern Android phones and tablets today.
✅ No Termux Required
One of the biggest advantages of Tiny Computer APK is that it does not require Termux. That means users don’t need to manually set up Linux environments using complicated command-line steps.
Everything is packaged and simplified for beginners.
✅ Install PC-Grade Linux Applications
Tiny Computer makes it possible to install and run real desktop Linux software such as:
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WPS Office
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CAJ Viewer
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EdrawMax
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PDF readers and editors
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File management tools
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Linux browsers
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Coding utilities
In short, it turns Android into a practical Linux workstation.
Run Debian Trixie Desktop on Android
Tiny Computer APK runs Debian Trixie, one of the newest Debian branches, known for:
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Stable package management
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Huge software repository
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Strong compatibility
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Lightweight performance when paired with desktops like XFCE or LXQt
This makes it a great option for productivity, studying, document editing, and running tools that normally require a PC.
Preinstalled Tools (Made for Productivity)
Because Tiny Computer was originally built for Chinese users, it includes useful default tools, including:
📝 Fcitx Pinyin Input Method
The app comes preinstalled with Fcitx Pinyin, which makes typing Chinese easy inside the Linux container.
This is especially useful for users who want a desktop environment for writing, office work, or reading Chinese documents.
How to Change Language Inside the Container
Tiny Computer APK supports language switching, but the process is done inside the Linux container.
To change the language:
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Run the tmoe command inside the container
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Select Manager
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Go to Locale Settings
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Choose your preferred language and locale
Since the root filesystem was built using tmoe, the locale system is managed through it.
Important Step: Update the LANG Variable
After changing the locale, you also need to update the startup command.
Go to:
Control → Advanced Settings → Startup Command
Then update this variable:
LANG=zh_CN.UTF-8
Change it to your preferred language, for example:
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LANG=en_US.UTF-8 -
LANG=fr_FR.UTF-8 -
LANG=hi_IN.UTF-8
This ensures the container launches with the correct language settings.
English UI Support (Version Details)
Tiny Computer has improved significantly over time, especially for international users.
🌍 English UI Since Version 1.0.23
English interface support was added from version 1.0.23, although a few hint messages may still appear in Chinese.
🔁 Auto English Switch Since Version 1.0.100
Starting from version 1.0.100, the container can automatically switch to English if the app detects that the Android device language is not Chinese.
This makes the app far more beginner-friendly for global users.
Why Tiny Computer APK is Popular
Tiny Computer is trending because it solves a problem many Android power users have:
“I want a real desktop system on Android without complicated setup.”
It offers:
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One-click Linux desktop
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PC-grade software support
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No Termux requirement
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Lightweight desktop options
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Practical productivity features
For students, office workers, and Linux enthusiasts, it’s one of the easiest ways to get a desktop experience on Android.
Final Thoughts
Tiny Computer APK is an excellent choice for Android users who want to go beyond mobile apps and experience a full Linux desktop. With Debian Trixie, XFCE/LXQt support, and the ability to run PC-style software like WPS and CAJ Viewer, it transforms Android into a portable mini PC.
If you want a smooth, simple Linux desktop setup without Termux, Tiny Computer APK is one of the strongest options available today.
