Does Termux include pip after Python installs?

Yes. The `python` package includes pip automatically, so you can install libraries with `pip install` right away.

Do I need build-essential for every Python package?

Not usually. Install `build-essential` only when a package requires compiling native extensions, such as some scientific or cryptography libraries.

Why run termux-setup-storage?

It gives Termux permission to access `/sdcard` so Python scripts can read and write files on your phone’s internal storage.

Install Python on Android with Termux

This guide covers installing Python on Android using Termux and includes a few practical notes from testing the process on a phone.

Step 1: Install Termux

Download Termux from Google Play, F-Droid, or from the Termux GitHub releases page.

Step 2: Update packages

Open Termux and run:

pkg update && pkg upgrade

This refreshes the package list and brings the current Termux environment up to date.

Step 3: Install Python

Run:

pkg install python

Type y and press Enter when prompted to confirm the download.

Step 4: Verify installation

Check that Python is installed correctly:

python --version

It should return the current version number, for example Python 3.12.x.

Additional setup

PIP package manager is available automatically after installing Python.
If you want to compile Python modules or install packages with native extensions, install the build tools:

pkg install build-essential

Storage access

To allow Python scripts to read and write files on your phone's internal storage, run:

termux-setup-storage

I always run this immediately after installation. Once the storage permission is granted, you avoid the later surprise of scripts failing because they cannot access /sdcard.

Pro tip: if you ever need to install a package that uses native extensions, doing the build-essential step first saves you a second round of package installs.