Thats where Pi-Apps comes in.
Its a handy one-click installer for over 200 Linux apps that are designed to run on the Raspberry Pi.
This has been the case since it launched back in 2012.
While versatile enough to run all manner of software, installing apps and utilities means overcoming the command line.
Although the operating system has been updated and a new desktop environment added, some things remain clunky.
Until the arrival of Pi-Apps, it was arguably the easiest way toinstall software on a Raspberry Pi.
Conversely, Pi-Apps is fast, displays useful information about compatible software and makes it easy to install.
Better still, Pi-Apps isnt only available for Raspberry Pi OS.
It will run on other Raspberry Pi operating systems, including Ubuntu.
Happily–and depending on your intended project–it could be the last time you use it.
To install Pi-Apps, open a terminal and enter:
This will commence the installation script.
Once the tool is installed, it’s possible for you to launch it fromAccessories > Pi-Apps.
Alternatively, open a terminal and use
When you launch Pi-Apps it should automatically check for updates.
What Can You Install With Pi-Apps?
Pi-Apps boasts over 200 apps, games, utilities, emulators, and more.
In short, everything useful for the Raspberry Pi can be installed through Pi-Apps.
There may be a few things missing, but overall, everything you need is here.
you could check within Pi-Apps to see what can be installed, or visit theGitHub pagewhere they are listed.
Installing Raspberry Pi Software Using Pi-Apps
With Pi-Apps installed, adding software is easy.
However, you may wish to run an update and upgrade of your repositories first.
Done with the app you installed?
Open Pi-Apps, find the app, and clickUninstallto remove it.
For getting things set up quickly–useful if youve just installed your Raspberry Pi OSPi-Apps hasMulti-Install.
Click this option then browse through the list of apps, checking the ones you want to install.
When youre done, click Install selected and wait.
Similarly, there is a Multi-Uninstall feature, which works in the same way.
Tweaking Pi-Apps configs
As noted, there is aSettingsbutton on Pi-Apps.
This enables various tweaks and enhancements to the app.
However, switching the App List Style theme affords slicker presentation of Pi-Apps.
With theNew Appbutton, you might add your own app to Pi-Apps, permitted withintheir guidelines.
If you dont have any development skills, you could useImport Appto add missing software that you regularly use.
Finally, there is aLog filesbutton.
This keeps logs for every app, useful for troubleshooting apps that wont install.
Sadly, this service was short-lived, and by 2016 it had been replaced by the Add/Remove Software utility.
