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The latest release of /e/OS introduces meaningful improvements for users seeking a Google-free smartphone experience. The most significant change involves App Lounge, the system’s app store, which now allows users to log in with their microG account directly within the app. Previously, this required navigating through separate settings, making the process cumbersome for those who prefer a streamlined experience.

This update is more than just a convenience. On a de-Googled phone, maintaining compatibility with apps that rely on Play Integrity is an ongoing challenge. By integrating microG access into App Lounge, /e/OS simplifies the process, eliminating the need to dig through hidden menus—a welcome change for users who want to avoid unnecessary technical hurdles.

A Fresh Look for App Lounge

Beyond microG integration, the app search interface has been redesigned with three distinct tabs: Apps (formerly “Common apps”), Open Source Apps, and Web Apps (previously PWA). This reorganization makes it easier to find free and open-source alternatives without sifting through the broader app catalog.

Security and Device-Specific Fixes

/e/OS 3.6 includes the latest security patches from LineageOS 22.2, updates the built-in browser to version 145.0.7632.159, and provides updated firmware for the Fairphone 5. For Fairphone 6 users, the update resolves two persistent issues: the “Do Not Disturb” mode disabling itself when using the Fairphone Moments switch, and a recurring camera and microphone warning appearing at every startup. All Android security patches available as of March 2026 are included.

Availability and Installation

Existing /e/OS users will receive the update on supported devices, including both official and community builds. For those curious about trying a privacy-focused operating system that maintains compatibility with common apps, the official website provides a list of supported devices and installation instructions. If you’re looking for a smartphone with /e/OS preinstalled, Murena is the go-to brand.

For users prioritizing mobile privacy, pairing /e/OS with a network-level ad and tracker blocker like AdGuard DNS can create an even more robust privacy setup.