One of the key features of Android is its open source software heritage. The source code for the full operating system, including the kernel, UI, libraries, and key apps, is available for free. This ...

Users who are running Google apps (like Gmail, Chrome, Maps, etc.) on uncertified devices will now see an error message and lose access to those apps. To use Google ...

Android: When you install a custom ROM on your phone, it probably doesn’t come with Google’s suite of apps. OpenGApps helps make it easier to get all the apps you need quickly. The Open GApps project ...

Of all the custom ROMs still around, LineageOS remains the most popular. The hard work of the team behind the ROM lays the foundation for several other ROMs. With Android 16 available for a few months ...

Google complicates development of custom ROMs such as Lineage for Pixel smartphones. The hardened Android version GrapheneOS is particularly affected. Google has thrown a spanner in the works of the ...

Google is not discontinuing the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), but it has made big changes that affect how Android source code is shared, especially for those who build custom ROMs of Android.

One of Android's selling features is its openness. Some of it is by design, like the ability to use different app launchers or default apps. Others, however, are products of some rather involved ...

With the launch of Android 16 earlier this week, Google did not release the Pixel hardware repos and device trees that are particularly important for custom ROM developers. This led to speculation by ...

In a sweeping policy overhaul, Google is moving to restrict unverified APKs, ROMs, and emulators, a change that could redefine what it means to use Android freely. The new rules, set to roll out by ...