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Help Us Build the Future of Mobile OS – Join the NexOS Project!

· 3 min read
Jenning Schaefer
Jenning Schaefer
Founder, UI, UX

Are you passionate about open-source, Rust, or RISC-V? Do you want to help shape a next-generation mobile operating system that’s privacy-respecting, modular, and designed for tomorrow's hardware?

Then open nexus needs you.

What is open nexus?​

open nexus is an open-source mobile operating system built from the ground up in Rust, with a strong focus on privacy, openness, and interoperability. It is based on the Redox microkernel and the beautifully modern COSMIC desktop environment (originally developed by System76).

Our goal? To create a secure, modular OS that runs across mobile and embedded platforms – fully open, community-driven, and libre.

Where We Are​

We are currently in the early design phase, developing the architectural foundation, user experience concepts, and development strategy. Our long-term roadmap includes:

  • A modular app framework inspired by SwiftUI/QML
  • Android compatibility (via sandboxing or translation layers)
  • Native support for RISC-V platforms like PineTab V and VisionFive 2
  • A fully open, privacy-first mobile ecosystem

I’m leading the project as a UX/UI design expert and project manager – working to bring this vision to life, both through hands-on design and project coordination. Now, I’m looking for like-minded pioneers to join me in building this from the ground up.

Who We’re Looking For​

We welcome contributors from all backgrounds, especially if you have experience or interest in:

  • 🔧 Rust / OS & kernel development
  • 📱 Mobile UX/UI, app design, or COSMIC/GTK work
  • 📦 Build systems, packaging, and CI/CD pipelines
  • 🧪 Testing on embedded or RISC-V hardware
  • 📖 Writing documentation or developer tools
  • 🌍 Community building and open governance

Whether you’re a seasoned systems programmer, a curious student, or an open-source enthusiast – there’s a place for you in open nexus.

Why Join?​

  • Contribute to a project that values freedom, privacy, and technological sovereignty
  • Help shape a truly libre alternative to Android
  • Work on cutting-edge tech (Rust, microkernels, RISC-V, COSMIC)
  • Be part of a respectful, collaborative community from day one
  • Gain experience in a full-stack OS project – from kernel to UI

Get Involved​

We're just getting started, and there’s never been a better time to get on board.

👉 Check out the GitHub repo
👉 Follow us on [Mastodon] (coming soon) 👉 Join the conversation on Discord

Or just reach out via email/DM if you're curious and want to chat.

Let’s build the mobile OS we deserve – open, secure, and truly ours.

—
open nexus Project
Breaking Ecosystem Barriers, in Rust 🦀