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Linux Shell for iOS

Run a full-featured Linux shell environment on your iPhone or iPad using x86/x86_64 emulation and syscall translation.

Get StartedArchitecture

Quick Start

Get iSH running on your iOS device in minutes

1

Install from App Store

Download iSH from the App Store or join the TestFlight beta for the latest features.
2

Launch the Shell

Open iSH and you’ll be greeted with a Linux shell running Alpine Linux. The filesystem is pre-configured and ready to use.
# Check your environment
$ uname -a
$ whoami
3

Install Packages

Use Alpine’s package manager to install software. iSH comes with a working network stack for downloads.
# Update package index
$ apk update

# Install your favorite tools
$ apk add git nodejs python3 vim
4

Start Building

You now have a full Linux environment on iOS. Run scripts, compile code, or use command-line tools just like on a desktop Linux system.

Key Features

Powerful emulation and integration capabilities

x86/x86_64 Emulation

Custom threaded code interpreter for efficient x86 and x86_64 instruction execution on ARM

Syscall Translation

Linux system calls translated to iOS equivalents for full compatibility

Alpine Linux

Complete Alpine Linux userspace with package management and filesystem support

Terminal Emulator

Full-featured terminal with TTY/PTY support, customizable themes, and keyboard shortcuts

Files App Integration

iOS Files app integration via File Provider extension for easy file access

64-bit Architecture

Active port to 64-bit x86_64 guest architecture for expanded compatibility

Explore the Documentation

Deep dive into architecture, building from source, and advanced topics

Architecture

Understand the emulation engine, kernel, and filesystem

Building

Compile iSH for iOS or build the CLI tool for testing

API Reference

Explore the internal APIs and system call interface

64-bit Port

Learn about the ongoing 64-bit architecture port

Logging & Debugging

Enable debug channels and troubleshoot issues

Interpreter

Deep dive into the threaded code interpreter design

Community & Resources

Connect with the iSH community and contribute to the project

Discord Community

Join our Discord server for help, discussions, and updates

Contributing

Contribute code, report bugs, or improve documentation

FAQ

Find answers to common questions and troubleshooting tips

Ready to Get Started?

Install iSH on your iOS device and start running Linux commands, installing packages, and building projects on the go.

Get Started NowView on GitHub