What Is PureOS? A Beginner’s Guide for iOS, Android, and Windows Users
Latest posts by Rex M. Lee (see all)
In today’s world, privacy and control over your digital life have become rare luxuries. Every tap, swipe, and click on most smartphones and PCs is tracked, analyzed, and monetized—usually without your explicit consent. That’s where PureOS comes in.
So What Is PureOS?
PureOS is a privacy-focused, secure, and open-source operating system developed by Purism. It’s built on Linux and designed for people who value digital freedom, security, and ethical technology.
If you’re used to using iOS, Android, or Windows, think of PureOS as an alternative that gives you full control over your device—with no ads, no trackers, and no corporate surveillance.
Why PureOS Matters
Most commercial operating systems are optimized for one thing: profit. That means:
- Your data is harvested.
- Your behavior is analyzed and sold to advertisers or third parties.
- You have little control over what’s running behind the scenes.
PureOS flips this model. It’s:
- Open Source – Anyone can inspect or improve the code.
- Privacy-Respecting – No data mining, no targeted ads, no hidden trackers.
- User-Controlled – You decide what gets installed and what permissions are granted.
PureOS vs. iOS, Android, and Windows: A Simple Comparison
| Feature/Value | PureOS | Android (Google) | iOS (Apple) | Windows |
| Data Privacy | No data mining, user data stays private | Extensive data collection tied to Google accounts | Data collection for personalization and Apple services | Tracks usage for telemetry and advertising |
| Open Source | 100% open source, auditable | Partially open (AOSP), closed apps | Closed source, proprietary | Mostly closed source |
| User Control | Root access by default | Limited, often locked down | Very limited | Limited (Admin rights vary) |
| Surveillance or Ads | None | Pre-installed tracking & ads | Limited but present | Ads in Start Menu, Cortana, etc. |
| App Permissions | Fully configurable, no silent changes | Often complex, silent updates | Some control, many hidden processes | Often hidden in advanced settings |
| Software Freedom | No forced updates | Frequent auto-updates | Forced updates | Forced updates, opt-outs limited |
| Supported Devices | Purism devices, Linux PCs | All Android devices | iPhones, iPads | PCs and laptops |
| Target User | Privacy-first users, Linux fans | Mainstream mobile users | Apple ecosystem users | Business/home users |
What You Won’t Find in PureOS
- No pre-installed spyware
- No advertising ID
- No forced cloud syncing or AI tracking
What You Will Find
- A clean, easy-to-use interface
- Firefox-based browser with tracker blocking
- PureOS Store with only open-source, privacy-respecting apps
- Support for browsing, email, editing documents, watching videos, coding, and more
Who Should Try PureOS?
- Parents who want safe devices for their kids
- Journalists, researchers, or whistleblowers
- Anyone tired of being tracked and profiled
- Tech professionals seeking full system control
How to Get Started
- Buy a device with PureOS preinstalled (like the Librem 5 or Librem 14)
- Download PureOS and try it on your own PC or in a virtual machine
Final Thoughts
PureOS isn’t just another Linux distribution—it’s a declaration of independence from corporate surveillance and coercive digital ecosystems. Whether you’re a seasoned technologist or just beginning your journey toward digital freedom, PureOS offers a future where you control your device—not the other way around.
Purism Products and Availability Chart
| Model | Status | Lead Time | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Librem Key (Made in USA) | In Stock ($59+) | 10 business days | |
 | Liberty Phone (Made in USA Electronics) | In Stock ($1,999+) 4GB/128GB | 10 business days | |
| Librem 5 | In Stock ($699+) 3GB/32GB | 10 business days | |
 | Librem 11 | Backorder ($999+) 8GB/1TB | Estimated fulfillment early May | |
 | Librem 14 | Out of stock | New Version in Development | |
 | Librem Mini | Out of stock | New Version in Development | |
 | Librem Server | In Stock ($2,999+) | 45 business days |
Recent Posts
- How Big Tech Exploits Apps to Circumvent Privacy Laws & a Solution from Purism
- PureOS Crimson Development Report: April 2025
- Apple Moves iPhone Production to India—Purism Has Been Leading the Way for Years
- FBI Raises Alarm on Encrypted Messaging Apps: A New Front in the Battle for Digital Privacy and National Security
- What Is PureOS? A Beginner’s Guide for iOS, Android, and Windows Users
Related Content
- How Big Tech Exploits Apps to Circumvent Privacy Laws & a Solution from Purism
- PureOS Crimson Development Report: April 2025
- Apple Moves iPhone Production to India—Purism Has Been Leading the Way for Years
- FBI Raises Alarm on Encrypted Messaging Apps: A New Front in the Battle for Digital Privacy and National Security
- What Is PureOS? A Beginner’s Guide for iOS, Android, and Windows Users
