How to Install and Run Flatpak Applications

Flatpak is one of the most versatile ways to install Linux applications. It keeps apps isolated from your system, making them safer to run, and it works across nearly every Linux distribution. If you’re ready to move beyond your distro’s package manager, here’s how to get Flatpak up and running — fast.

What Is Flatpak, Briefly?

Flatpak is a universal packaging format for Linux. It lets developers package their apps with all the dependencies included. This means fewer compatibility issues and more up-to-date software.

Step 1: Install Flatpak

Before you can use it, you need to install Flatpak itself. Most distributions have it in their repositories:

Ubuntu / Debian:

sudo apt install flatpak

Fedora:
Flatpak comes pre-installed.

Arch / Manjaro:

sudo pacman -S flatpak

openSUSE:

sudo zypper install flatpak

Step 2: Add the Flathub Repository

Flathub is the main source of Flatpak apps — think of it as the App Store for Flatpak. To add it:

flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

If you’re on a desktop environment that supports Flatpak (like GNOME or KDE), you might also want to restart your system after this step to ensure full integration.

Step 3: Find and Install Applications

To search for a Flatpak app, use:

flatpak search appname

To install it:

flatpak install flathub app.id

For example, to install Spotify:

flatpak install flathub com.spotify.Client

You can also browse Flathub’s website at flathub.org to find app IDs and descriptions.

Step 4: Run Flatpak Applications

Once installed, you can launch apps like this:

flatpak run app.id

Using our Spotify example:

flatpak run com.spotify.Client

Most desktop environments will also add the app to your application menu automatically.

Bonus Tips

• Update Flatpak apps: flatpak update
• Remove an app: flatpak uninstall app.id
• List all installed Flatpaks: flatpak list

Why Use Flatpak?

• You get newer software than your distro’s official repos.
• Each app is sandboxed for better security.
• You avoid dependency hell.

Final Thoughts

Flatpak gives you flexibility, control, and access to tons of modern apps no matter which Linux distro you’re using. Once you set it up, managing apps becomes a breeze. Whether you’re a developer, power user, or just curious, Flatpak is worth adding to your Linux toolbox.