After all, Android is based on Linux, ight?

Once upon a time, in 2019, a frustrated Swedish developer named Mike Schmeichel found himself longing for a good Android emulator for Linux. He had a vision of creating an emulator that would not only provide compatibility with Android games but also support older and newer Android versions simultaneously. Driven by his determination to fill this void, Mike embarked on a journey to develop a FOSS (Free and Open Source Software) Android/kaiOS compatibility layer named "YAAE" (Yet Another Android Emulator).

Inspired by the existing Anbox project, Mike decided to use it as a base for his ambitious endeavor. He poured countless hours into coding and refining YAAE, carefully crafting it to be compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. His primary focus was on Android game compatibility, ensuring that gamers could enjoy their favorite titles seamlessly on their computers.

As YAAE began to take shape, Mike introduced three distinct flavors: Maple Syrup, Honey, and Chocolate. Maple Syrup provided users with access to F-Droid and bare Android apps, emphasizing the importance of open-source software. Honey, on the other hand, included a reimplementation of microG, enabling users to utilize apps that required Google Play services without actually having them installed. Lastly, Chocolate catered to those who needed Google Mobile Services (GMS) and allowed them to use Google Play Service apps as they would on any Android device.

To support the development of YAAE, Mike reached out to Qooapp, a popular anime game store for Android. Recognizing the potential of YAAE, Qooapp decided to fund the project, believing in its mission of providing Android users with an option for degoogleization while still enjoying their favorite games.

The year 2020 marked a significant milestone for YAAE. Mike's ingenuity and dedication led him to add HarmonyOS compatibility, enabling users to run HarmonyOS apps, including Tencent apps and games. However, this achievement didn't come without its challenges. Huawei, the company behind HarmonyOS, sent Mike a DMCA notice, accusing him of undermining their intellectual property. Despite not using any actual Huawei code, Mike faced the threat of losing HarmonyOS compatibility. Undeterred, he employed clever methods to keep the compatibility intact while disguising it from Huawei's watchful eyes.

As the world entered 2021, YAAE gained even more prominence. With the rise of Windows Subsystem for Android, the emergence of ChromeOS, and native iOS compatibility added to macOS, YAAE became a go-to emulator for Android, kaiOS, and HarmonyOS on Linux. Its versatility and reliability propelled it into the spotlight, attracting users from different platforms.

In 2023, the gaming industry witnessed a groundbreaking collaboration. Valve, the renowned gaming company, recognized the immense potential of YAAE and its compatibility with a wide range of platforms. They decided to add YAAE as a second compatibility layer for their highly anticipated Steam Deck, alongside Proton (based on WINE). Valve's support not only validated YAAE's capabilities but also provided the necessary funding to further enhance the project. And so, YAAE, born out of frustration and fueled by passion, became a game-changer in the world of Android emulation. It proved that with determination, creativity, and the support of like-minded individuals and organizations, even the most ambitious dreams can become a reality. Mike's legacy as the creator of YAAE lived on, inspiring countless developers to push the boundaries of what's possible in the world of technology.