The operating system has been around for a while Cyanogen OS, which is based on Android. This is created and developed by the company that is also responsible for the well-known ROM that can be installed in a large number of compatible devices, although neither the same means nor the same way of working are used. Well, there are interesting news regarding the applications that arrive pre-installed in the first one.
These are none other than the development of a package in which these are included so that, if desired, users who have the ROM CyanogenMod 12.1 (or higher) can use them in their terminals to check if they are to their liking. That is, it works in a similar way as with the Google developments -GApps-, which can be obtained to install them independently if desired.
The fact is that with this movement an attempt is made to go one step further by the developer company to try to ensure that their products are as far as possible Google's own (It is intended that these simply disappear in a not long time, something for which an alternative application store is needed as God intended, everything has to be said). The fact is that a download link has been provided to get what have been called C-Apps -in addition, also an installation guide in case you have problems-.
The developments included
The package that is obtained includes several of the developments that Cyanogen currently has as its own, and none of the most important are missing. An example are those for managing Themes to change the appearance of the operating system. In order to take advantage of this, it is necessary to have your own Cyanogen account. The fact is that both Theme Chooser as Theme Store They are part of the game - the account manager is not lacking either.
Additionally there is the mail application (created by Boxer); Sound FX to manage the terminal's sound; and, of course, the Gallery included in the operating system. Also included is the Dialer application, which has TrueCaller to be able to block unwanted contacts. In other words, none of the important ones are missing.
- Theme Chooser and Theme Store: allow to apply and mix parts of several themes (icons, backgrounds, fonts, sounds) to customize the interface in detail.
- AudioFX: sound engine with advanced equalization, presets and enhancements like bass boost to improve music, podcasts or games.
- Cyanogen Account: access to functions such as locate, block or wipe device remotely, in addition to logging into your own services.
- Dialer with TrueCaller: spam caller ID and quick lock since the notification.
- Email by Boxer: client with multiple accounts, unified inbox and quick actions to sort your email.
- Gallery: organize photos by events and sources, with duplicate detection to free up space.
Media content:
As we have indicated, and it is important to be clear, it is necessary to have the CyanogenMod 12.1 ROM or higher for the C-Apps to work properly and, the truth is, this company move It's really positive for users who trust their developments. The fact is that with any device with the aforementioned firmware installed, you can have a similar experience to those offered by the ZUK Z1 or the OnePlus One, when it comes to the applications we are talking about.
What is Cyanogen OS and how it differs from CyanogenMod?
Cyanogen OS It was conceived as a Alternative Android for manufacturers, with commercial support, updates and distribution agreements; CyanogenMod It's the AOSP-based community ROM, the most open to experimentation. The relationship is clear: Without CyanogenMod there would be no Cyanogen OS, since many of the functions that were later consolidated in the commercial system emerged from the community.
A key difference is the optionality of bloatware: While many manufacturer layers make it difficult to uninstall apps, Cyanogen OS opted to make everything dispensable and let the user choose what to install, something that C-Apps reinforces by being distributed as an independent package.
C-Apps: requirements and installation
To use them it is recommended to have CyanogenMod 12.1 or higher, an updated recovery, and a previous backup. The usual process is to download the C-Apps ZIP, save it to your phone, reboot into recovery, flash the package and reboot. If any errors appear, it's a good idea to wipe the cache/Dalvik and check for ROM compatibility.
Strategy without Google and alliance with Microsoft
With C-Apps and its ecosystem, Cyanogen drove a Android less dependent on Google. In various trade agreements, alternative services were integrated such as Skype, OneNote, Office or Bing to cover communications, productivity, and search. The idea wasn't to "close the door" on Google, but to offer real options for those who prefer another set of services, keeping everything as an optional installation.
This approach also benefits manufacturers with fewer resources, who find in Cyanogen OS a well-maintained and upgradeable package of functions, and users who are looking for a more clean and customizable than many traditional layers.
With C-Apps, those who install CyanogenMod can get closer to the Cyanogen OS experience without changing ROMs, taking advantage of its theme engine, better audio, smart dialer, and account utilities. It's a handy way to try out an Android with alternative services and fine-grained control over what's installed.