When you use Ubuntu Linux, the primary method for installing software is through Canonical’s proprietary “Snap” package manager or the traditional APT repositories. While Snap packages are deeply integrated into Ubuntu, they have faced criticism from the open-source community for slow startup times, bloated file sizes, and a locked-down, centralised backend. If you want access to a broader, faster, and more universally accepted ecosystem of Linux applications, you need to learn how to install Flatpak on Ubuntu Linux.
In this comprehensive technical guide, we will explain exactly what Flatpak is, why it is highly recommended alongside your existing package managers, and provide the precise terminal commands required to install the Flatpak daemon and integrate it smoothly with the Ubuntu Software Center.
What is Flatpak?
Flatpak is a next-generation software utility for software deployment and package management on Linux. Unlike traditional .deb packages that rely on a complex web of shared system dependencies, a Flatpak application bundles the core software and all its required libraries into a single, sandboxed container.
This containerised approach means an application downloaded via Flatpak will run identically on Ubuntu, Fedora, Arch Linux, or Linux Mint, regardless of the underlying operating system version. It also provides enhanced security, as the application runs in isolation and requires explicit permission to access your personal files or hardware.
Why You Should Install Flatpak on Ubuntu
Ubuntu does not include Flatpak by default because Canonical (the company behind Ubuntu) aggressively promotes their competing Snap ecosystem. However, adding Flatpak provides massive benefits:
- Access to Flathub: Flathub is the de facto central repository for Flatpak apps. It hosts thousands of high-quality, up-to-date applications (like OBS Studio, Spotify, and Discord) that are often maintained directly by the original developers rather than third-party packagers.
- Faster Performance: Flatpak applications generally launch significantly faster than their Snap counterparts, especially on older hardware.
- No System Conflicts: Because Flatpaks are sandboxed, you can safely install beta software or multiple versions of the same application without risking damage to your core Ubuntu system files.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install Flatpak
Integrating Flatpak into Ubuntu requires executing a few simple commands in the terminal to install the core daemon and the graphical plugin.
Step 1: Open the Terminal
Press Ctrl + Alt + T on your keyboard to open a new terminal window. Ensure you have an active internet connection and sudo (administrator) privileges.
Step 2: Update Your System Repositories
Before installing new core software, it is best practice to update your local package index. Run the following command and enter your password when prompted:
sudo apt updateStep 3: Install the Flatpak Daemon
Next, install the base Flatpak utility from the official Ubuntu repositories by running:
sudo apt install flatpakType Y and press Enter if prompted to confirm the installation.
Step 4: Install the GNOME Software Plugin (Optional but Recommended)
By default, Flatpak only works via the command line. If you want to browse and install Flatpak apps using a graphical user interface (GUI) similar to an app store, you must install the GNOME Software plugin. (Note: This will install the generic GNOME Software app alongside Ubuntu’s customised “Ubuntu Software” app).
sudo apt install gnome-software-plugin-flatpakStep 5: Add the Flathub Repository
Installing the Flatpak software is useless without a repository to download apps from. Flathub is the primary repository you need. Add it by executing this exact command:
flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepoStep 6: Restart Your System
To ensure all the new application paths are registered correctly and the graphical store integrates the Flathub repository, you must completely restart your computer. You can do this via the GUI or by typing:
sudo rebootHow to Install Applications via Flatpak
Once your system has rebooted, you can install software in two ways.
Method 1: Using the Command Line
If you know the application ID, you can install it instantly. For example, to install the popular image editor GIMP, run:
flatpak install flathub org.gimp.GIMPTo run the application from the terminal, use:
flatpak run org.gimp.GIMPMethod 2: Using the Graphical Software Center
Open your applications menu and look for an app simply called Software (represented by a white shopping bag icon, distinguishing it from the orange “Ubuntu Software” icon). Search for an application. When you click on an app page, look at the top-right corner; a drop-down menu will allow you to choose the “Source” (select Flathub instead of Snap or Ubuntu deb) before clicking Install.
Troubleshooting Common Flatpak Issues
Theme Inconsistencies
Because Flatpaks are sandboxed, they do not automatically inherit your custom Ubuntu desktop themes. If an app looks out of place (e.g., using a light theme when your system is in dark mode), you may need to install Flatpak-specific themes using a tool like Flatseal to override permissions.
Managing App Permissions
If a Flatpak app cannot access your USB drive or webcam, the sandbox is blocking it. Install an app called Flatseal from Flathub. Flatseal provides a highly intuitive GUI to toggle specific permissions (like Network access, File System access, or Device access) on and off for every Flatpak installed on your system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Flatpak and Snap coexist on the same system?
Yes, absolutely. Installing Flatpak does not remove or break Snap. You can safely run both package managers side-by-side, choosing the format that works best for each individual application.
How do I update Flatpak applications?
If you installed the GNOME Software plugin, apps will update automatically in the background. Alternatively, you can manually update all installed Flatpaks by running flatpak update in the terminal.
Relying solely on a single software repository limits the true potential of your Linux machine. By taking a few minutes to install Flatpak on Ubuntu Linux and enabling the Flathub repository, you immediately unlock a massive ecosystem of cutting-edge, secure, and universally compatible open-source applications, significantly enriching your desktop experience.
