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What is Xposed framework and how do Xposed modules work?

xposed teaser
© nextpit

Xposed is a tiny bit like Project Ara but on a software level. Where Ara takes modular components that you can mix and match on a physical smartphone, the Xposed framework lets you mix and match system elements – called modules – in pretty much the same way. It's like cherry picking the individual parts you like about Android to create the exact phone system you like. It's kind of awesome because you have all the power in the world.

xposed teaser
 © ANDROIDPIT

Everything is handled through your device's memory too, so, unlike custom ROMs (variations on the stock Android firmware on your phone), there's no complicated process required to reverse any changes you make. You don't make any changes to your APKs (your apps) either because everything happens at the system level, so Xposed modules will work on all ROMs and all Android versions, as long as you're running above Android 4.0.3. Where custom ROMs do all the work for you in a neat little package, Xposed is much more powerful because you build things the way you want them.

xposed framework modules
The Xposed Installer lets you install any modules you want. / © NextPit

Xposed requires root, so you have to be willing to take that step before getting into the Xposed Module Repository and finding the bits and pieces you want to play around with. One of the best parts of Xposed modules is that they can be layered one on top of another, meaning that you can change the behavior or appearance of an app or system element with module A and then tweak it a bit more with Module B and so on. The customizations are endless.

blurred ui f
Once you start picking and choosing from modules there's nothing you can't do! / © ANDROIDPIT

All you have to do to get started is, of course, have a rooted device and then download the Xposed Installer, which you can get from the Xposed Module Repository or from XDA Developers or Github. Once you have the Installer installed, you're all set with the basic structure, or framework, upon which you start using the modules you like. Before you know it you'll have a custom build Android that is unique and awesome because you built it! Check out our previous tutorial on how to install the Xposed framework with a few of our favorite Xposed modules. We've got more coming for you soon.

Have you tried Xposed? What are your favorite modules?

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Kris Carlon

Kris Carlon
Senior Editor

Kris is a former AndroidPIT Editor who came to the team via a lengthy period spent traveling and relying on technology to keep him in touch with the outside world. He can usually be found juggling three phones at once and poring over G+ posts, Reddit and RSS feeds.

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8 comments
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  • 3
    Ankit Nawlakha Sep 29, 2017 Link to comment

    Xposed Framework is the evidence why Android is considered as the best Mobile Operating System.

    Twins Atha


  • Parva Barbhaya 2
    Parva Barbhaya Mar 26, 2016 Link to comment

    How to root micromax Android one


    • Twins Atha 2
      Twins Atha Jun 3, 2021 Link to comment

      VMOS


  • 20
    Reg Joo Jul 27, 2014 Link to comment

    xposed installer for android 2.3 , even this can get you into the game. It doesn't have the ability to run all of the modules, but a lot of the important ones. Android Tuner, Alarm Clock plus, always correct, app settings, BootManager, DisableSignatureCheck, HideBatteryLOwAlert, MasterKeyFixGB, Network speed indicator, Per App Hacking, Physical Button Music Control, Play Store Fixes, Prevent Running, StopSwitchDelay, Tinted Status Bar, Xad, XVolume, Xposed additions, and YouTube AdAway,and Xprivacy. Got em all, and no performance hit.


    • My1 37
      My1 Jul 27, 2014 Link to comment

      well that proably isn t fault of xposed but rather that the devs dont want/cannot create the module for GB...


  • Kris Carlon 35
    Kris Carlon Jul 26, 2014 Link to comment

    Xposed definitely doesn't get the attention it deserves.


  • 1
    Haziq Jul 26, 2014 Link to comment

    Xposed is something obligate for us !


  • 19
    Moni Mihailov Jul 26, 2014 Link to comment

    Xposed is an amazing piece of software <3 :D

    Twins AthaRandom Username

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