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Termux Addons Overview: Termux:API, Widget, and Boot

Termux Masterclass: From Zero to Linux Power User on Android

49. Termux Addons Overview: Termux:API, Widget, and Boot

Termux's core power is extended dramatically through specialized addons, which bridge the gap between the Linux shell and the Android OS features.

1. Termux:API

This addon allows Termux scripts to interact directly with Android APIs (GPS, camera, battery status, notifications).

Installation: Install the Termux:API app from F-Droid and the command-line utility inside Termux:

bash $ pkg install termux-api

Example Usage: Reading battery status in a script:

bash $ termux-battery-status

Outputs JSON data about the battery

Example Usage: Sending a notification from a script:

bash $ termux-notification --title "Script Done" --content "Task completed successfully."

2. Termux:Widget

This addon allows you to execute shell scripts directly from a shortcut on your Android home screen (widget).

  • Scripts must be placed in ~/.shortcuts/.
  • This is the best way to manually trigger scheduled or automated tasks that don't need continuous background running.

3. Termux:Boot

If installed, Termux:Boot allows you to automatically run specific scripts when your Android device finishes booting up.

  • Scripts are placed in ~/.termux/boot/.
  • Ideal for starting services like sshd or long-running tasks as soon as the phone starts.