You mean you want a secure communications app on an insecure OS?
Sorry no.
Check if there's a Lineage OS being made for the device that is equivalent to a newer Android version
this post was submitted on 17 Sep 2025
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Nooooo, I just want to use signal, as it's the only mainstream messenger that's not unusable
Sorry, I don't make the app.
Your options are:
-
Check if there is Lineage OS that has at least Android 5 or newer
-
Get a very cheap new phone. You can find a prepaid phone in the US at like less than $50 (lock to carrier, but unlockable in 60 days after activation).
(Used phones are also an option)
Sorry, brother. You need to give up on using antique Android. Its a huge security threat. You also need to put Linux on that laptop still rocking Win ME.
Why are you running a device with an OS that was EOL nearly a decade ago?
No.
FUCK why?
Because that OS is far too old/EOL? Nobody bothers writing software for ancient platforms like Android 5, and why would they? Just so like 0.000001% of their userbase could use it. It doesn't make any sense for them to do it.
I thought there might be some enthusiasts... You know, like people making open source alternatives to corporate social media, which "no one uses"?
For something like an older game console or old PC, sure but not really for the old phone's OS.
maybe cuz that android version went eol more than a decade ago?
No :(