Any way to run desktop apps?

[finfetworld]

Hi. I'm using Ubuntu Touch on Xiaomi Mi Pad 4(ARM64).

I tried to use Libreoffice on it, so installed with APT.

but after installation, the icon shows up on the menu but crashes after splash screen.

Trying libertine ends up with same result.

Is there any solution for this? or can I install another DE such as XFCE or MATE?

[Keneda]

@finfetworld
Well, Ubuntu Touch is not like Ubuntu or any other classical GNU/L distrib.

It is intended as user safety first (casual user must be safe with it) then comes with some walls by design, such as a write only system files, confined apps (click), and autorisations.

Apt is not the normal way to install anything, and desktop apps should be installed through libertine yes. Now not all desktop apps will work as libertine is still in dev and has its issues.

Now if you want to go outside those walls it's possible, but then you will go a way not endorsed by ubports.

If you want to install with apt, you'll need first to make system read/write, you can do it two ways, using ubuntu touch tweak tool app, or using terminal app, search forum for command to enter.

Be aware doing so, you might break system, and you should no do any OTA update after that, as it could erase partial or full what you did, and also then lead to system failure.

[Lakotaubp]

@finfetworld Sorry didn't know there was even a working port for that device. As for running another OS one of the lighter Ubuntu desktop versions might work. Though you will need another forum for that.

[TotalSonic]

In my experience Libre Office does not work in Libertine, but Abiword and Gnumeric do.

Best regards,
Steve Berson

[upportsnoob]

Libreoffice did work on my device, i installed libreoffice-gtk by searching from archives inside libertine. It is an old version though. Spent a very short time with the app, but it mostly seemed responsive. I am not sure if all features work. I haven't checked out impress and calc yet.

[Lakotaubp]

@finfetworld Sorry but can I ask where the port came from? I must be missing something. Can't see it here https://devices.ubuntu-touch.io

[finfetworld]

@lakotaubp

Thank you for the detailed answers

I just downloaded the rom file and followed instructions from XDA.

https://forum.xda-developers.com/t/gsi-arm64-a-ab-ubuntu-touch-mi-pad-4-plus.4351699/

[Lakotaubp]

@finfetworld The gsi image is no longer supported which might explain why you are hitting problems. AFAIK there is no other port for that device, unless you want to try making one. https://forums.ubports.com/topic/2068/halium-first-steps

[finfetworld]

@totalsonic said in Any way to run desktop apps?:

does not work in Libertine, but Abiword and Gnumeric do.
Best regards,

Oh. Thank you for the answer. I will try this later!