{
  "id": 15618591,
  "title": "5 tips to customize your smartphone like a cyberdeck",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/19/5-tips-to-customize-your-smartphone-like-a-cyberdeck",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-19T14:25:23.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Mashable",
    "slug": "mashable",
    "url": "https://mashable.com/tech/customize-smartphone-like-cyberdeck"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Cyberdecks, inspired by science fiction, are portable computers that blend smartphones and laptops. You can create one yourself using an existing smartphone, or build one from scratch. The process involves finding a suitable enclosure, setting up software, and adding personal touches.\n\nThe enclosure is the most challenging aspect, but once you have it, you can move on to software customization. Rotation Lock is an app that locks your phone's screen in a specific orientation, bypassing the auto-rotate function. However, compatibility may vary depending on your phone model.\n\nTo enhance your cyberdeck with software, Termux is a great choice. This app turns your Android device into a Linux environment, allowing you to run Linux commands and install Linux apps. While there are limitations, it opens up a world of possibilities for your cyberdeck.\n\nSome Android phones have a desktop mode feature, such as Samsung DeX for Samsung devices and Google's desktop mode for Pixel devices. These modes transform your smartphone into a desktop environment, making it more suitable for using with a keyboard and mouse.\n\nIn addition to the above, you can further customize your cyberdeck by downloading a custom launcher for a more sci-fi look, using Tasker to automate tasks, or connecting to your home PC via remote desktop. You can also explore various apps for cybersecurity, productivity, or even turn your smartphone into a video game emulator with different emulators available.\n\nThe possibilities for customizing your smartphone into a cyberdeck are endless, so let your creativity run wild and enjoy the journey of transforming your device into a powerful, sci-fi-inspired computer.",
  "summary": "Cyberdecks are sci-fi inspired, DIY portable computers that bridge the gap between smartphones and laptops. Here's how to do it yourself.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}