SwitchMe Brings Multiple Accounts to Rooted Devices

The power of root is growing daily, with developers taking advantage of the privileges granted by taking full control of their devices. One thing that's always been lacking though, is the ability to host "guest" accounts on an Android device. Now, that ability is available with a new app called SwitchMe. Desktops and laptops have always been able to make use of this feature, and for the security conscious it's practically a must-have. Allowing family or friends to have their own private workspace on a device can provide both peace of mind, as well as flexibility depending on your use case.

Take for example tablets in schools. This has been a growing trend over the last year, with more and more schools buying up tablets to replace textbooks, or to compliment in-class learning. Buying a tablet for every student can get pricey, though. Then there's the problem of keeping each student's preferences and files separate. Android has always allowed you to use multiple accounts on a single device, but in a way that leaves all your information open to other users. What's needed is a way to create multiple accounts, which are only accessible by each individual user.

Click thumbnails to enlarge

SwitchMe is a new app available in the Market from a developer by the name of Fahrbot Mobile. If you're a rooted user, SwitchMe can provide just this sort of functionality. It's a free download, which allows users to define multiple profiles, and then reboot into any of those profiles. Apps and preferences are stored in isolated sections of flash storage. This can be somewhat problematic if you have limited space available, however. It means that you will have to download multiple copies of each app you want to use for each account. It is, however, a step in the right direction. SwtichMe also has a premium key available for $1.98. The app is in its initial stages, and should improve over time. If you're ready to give it a try, you can download it here.