Can Rikomagic MK802 IV Run Linux?

Yes, you can make the MK802 IV Run Linux!

NOTE: A newer post will give step by step instructions how to install MK802iv Ubuntu on a newer revision of the MK802iv.    Read that article here.

Hi, it’s Jimmy again with another exciting post about this amazing mini computer, the Rikomagic MK802 IV.

The Android operating system is actually a Linux based OS.   So, one would think that if Android can run on the Rikomagic MK802 IV micro computers, than it would stand to reason that other Linux distributions can run on it as well.   The fine folks in the UK have been working exactly on that!

Predecessors to this model, the MK802 IIIS, already can run a version of Linux, called Picuntu, based on Ubuntu.   From what I read, they are already testing a version for the MK802 IV that should be available very soon.    As I get more details, I will post them on this site.   I will make another tab that will have links to where you can download what you will need, as well as directions on how to install it.

* Please be aware, that installing Linux on your Android Mini PC and making the Rikomagic MK802IV run Linux is an experimental thing, and would require you flashing the firmware in the mini pc.  I would imagine that doing so will probably void your warrantee.   But, hey, if you are techy enough to do this, then you should know how to undo it, anyway.   That’s what us techno dudes do…  we live on the edge like that 🙂  If you really want to play around with this now, you can do a search for Neomode 1.7 Rom or the Finless rom for MK802IV.   You will probably find a lot of good information on Freaktab, but there is so much out there…

For those of you who are interested in compiling your own Linux Distro for the MK802iv, this forum thread has links to download the Linux source code.   This is the LINK to the thread with the source code.  This is not for the faint of heart, however.   If you are not a techy, I wouldn’t recommend you do this.   Instead, if you want Linux on your stick, wait for someone to develop the rom, then install their rom in a similar way to how I showed you how to update the firmware.

For your convenience, I have written an article with directions on how to flash your firmware in this Rikomagic mini computer.  You can find those directions here.

I will be purchasing another to make an MK802 IV run Linux, when it comes out.   But just because an  update is available, doesn’t mean that you have to take it?   If you are happy with the standard Android OS that comes with the TV Dongle, then it is fine just to stay with Android.   I love Android, and for the average user, that is fine.   If I got this mini pc for my dad, for instance, I would leave it Android.

So, I am thinking about getting a second one.   One for Linux, one for Android.   If you are interested in installing Linux on your MK802 IV, keep checking back, and I will post information as soon as I know.

Until Next Time….