📰 New article from Retro Handhelds
How to Install Ubuntu on the R36 Ultra
https://retrohandhelds.gg/how-to-install-ubuntu-on-the-r36-ultra/
### Why use a handheld for retro gaming when you can turn it into a tiny Linux PC?
If you’ve ever looked at your collection of budget emulation handhelds and thought, “This would be much better if it were a pocket-sized terminal,” then you’re officially part of the club. A new guide has surfaced detailing how to transform the R36 Ultra from a gaming machine into a functioning Ubuntu desktop.
Now, let’s manage expectations: this isn’t going to replace your MacBook. The project is less “smooth multitasking” and more “mad scientist experiment.” Once installed, you’ll basically be staring at a terminal window, and since the device’s native controls won’t work for navigation, you’ll need to plug in an external mouse and keyboard via USB-C.
The gist of the process:
- Hunt for files: You’ll need to find specific archives on the R36 Ultra Telegram channel.
- Stitch it together: Use PowerShell or a Linux terminal to merge several fragmented files into a single `.img` file.
- Flash and boot: Burn the image to an SD card using tools like Balena Etcher.
While you won’t be browsing Reddit with ease, the possibilities for hobbyists are fun. You could turn this little guy into a portable Pi-hole for network security or a lightweight media server. It’s definitely more “chaos” than “practicality,” but in the world of retro tech, that’s half the fun.