The Free Software Foundation (FSF) has launched the LibrePhone project, an aspiring multi-year effort to create a fully free software-based smartphone by reverse-engineering and legally reimplementing proprietary components of existing Android devices. The project aims to eliminate reliance on binary blobs - pre-compiled software often containing proprietary code – and offer users complete control over their mobile experience.
while not developing a new operating system, the FSF intends to “liberate” Android by recreating essential functionalities currently locked behind proprietary code. Lead developer Rob Savoye will begin with radio functions (cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), followed by GPU and touchscreen implementations, meticulously analyzing existing software to build original, legally distinct replacements. This approach avoids copyright infringement by focusing on functional equivalence rather than direct code replication.
The FSF acknowledges this is a long-term undertaking, requiring ample financial support and volunteer contributions. Savoye expressed optimism, noting the project builds upon existing open-source work, stating, “Developing completely free software for a modern commercial phone will not be swift, easy or cheap, but our project benefits from standing on the shoulders of giants who have already done most of the work.” The project’s success would offer a privacy-focused, user-controlled option in a mobile market dominated by proprietary systems.