claude-code-termux/docs/01-termux-fresh-install.md

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01 — Fresh Termux install (Android)

This guide covers a clean Termux install without Google Play, which is required for Termux:API / Termux:Boot compatibility.

Why not Google Play

Google Play freezes Termux on an old version. Addons (Termux:API, Termux:Boot, Termux:Widget) require signature parity with the base app, so the Play version is incompatible with the F-Droid / GitHub-Release addons.

Decision: install everything from F-Droid or GitHub Releases (Termux team's official builds).

Use one of:

Both share the same signing key, so addons work across them. Don't mix Play and F-Droid/GitHub.

APK list (download to the device beforehand)

Package Purpose Required
termux-app_*.apk Base shell yes
termux-api-app_*.apk Sensors, camera, clipboard recommended
termux-boot-app_*.apk Auto-start on boot optional
termux-widget-app_*.apk Home-screen launchers optional

First boot

# 1. Allow Termux access to shared storage (~/storage symlink)
termux-setup-storage

# 2. Prevent Android from killing the process when screen is off
termux-wake-lock

# 3. Update and install the minimum
pkg update -y
pkg install -y openssh nodejs git proot python

SSH for remote access (optional but useful)

passwd        # set an SSH password
sshd          # start the daemon on port 8022
whoami        # note the u0_a*** username for remote login

From another machine:

ssh -p 8022 u0_a***@<device-ip>

If the device is on Tailscale, use the Tailscale IP instead of the LAN one. Termux itself can't run the Tailscale CLI; use the Android Tailscale app and the device will appear in your tailnet automatically.

What's next

Continue with 02-base-packages.md to install the rest of the stack used by Claude Code and helper scripts.