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Using non-english input methods inside the Linux Subsystem of FydeOS

Last Update: 2023-07-18

The Linux subsystem integrated into FydeOS currently does not support the system's native input method. This presents a challenge for users who need to input non-English languages, particularly native speakers of CJK (Chinese, Japanese, Korean) languages. To address this issue, you can install a third-party input method for the Linux subsystem. This guide outlines the steps for installing and configuring the Fcitx input method within the FydeOS Linux subsystem.

Step 1: Installing the Fcitx Input Method

  1. Open the Linux terminal and allow the Linux subsystem to initialise.
  2. Update your software sources and packages by executing the following command: sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade.
  3. Once the updates are complete, install the Fcitx input method by running: sudo apt install fcitx fcitx-lib* -y.

Step 2: Setting Fcitx as the Default Input Method

  1. After installation, enter the following command in the Linux terminal: im-config. Note: Do not execute this command as the root user, as it may cause connection issues.
  2. A dialogue box will appear. Select "OK", then "Yes". Choose "fcitx" and confirm by clicking "OK" twice.

Step 3: Configuring Fcitx Settings

  1. Run the following command in the Linux terminal: fcitx && fcitx-configtool.
  2. A configuration window will open. Click the "+" icon in the bottom-left corner to access the input method selection interface.
  3. Untick the box labelled "Only show current language", choose your desired input method, and click "OK".
  4. If no input methods are displayed, close the window, run fcitx-diagnose, and repeat steps 2 and 3.

Step 4: Configuring Fcitx as the Language Input Environment

  1. Install the Gedit text editor using this command: sudo apt install gedit -y.

  2. Execute the following command to configure the language input environment: sudo gedit /etc/systemd/user/cros-garcon.service.d/cros-garcon-override.conf.

  3. Add the following lines to the end of the file:

    Environment="GTK_IM_MODULE=fcitx"
Environment="QT_IM_MODULE=fcitx"
Environment="XMODIFIERS=@im=fcitx"

  4. Save the file and close the Gedit editor.

Step 5: Enabling Fcitx to Auto-Start in the Linux Subsystem

  1. Modify the auto-start configuration with this command: sudo gedit ~/.sommelierrc.
  2. Add the following line to the end of the file: /usr/bin/fcitx-autostart.
  3. Save the file and exit the Gedit editor.
  4. Restart the Linux subsystem with the following command: sudo reboot.
  5. You can now toggle between non-English and English input methods using Ctrl+Space.

References

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