Android device makers can customize the OS, but they rely on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) for core functionality. After more than 16 years, Google is changing the Android development process to optimize future updates.
Like other open-source projects, AOSP benefits from third-party developers, but Google manages most of the development. The company treats Android as a full-scale product and decides which code gets included and when new versions are released. While some parts of AOSP are developed openly, Google handles many core elements privately to ensure a unified version for manufacturers and developers.
Moving Android Development In-House
To balance openness with product development, Google maintains two branches: the public AOSP branch and an internal Google branch. While the public branch is accessible to everyone, key components like the core Android framework are developed privately. Now, Google plans to consolidate all Android development within its internal branch, simplifying the update process.
Currently, the public branch often lags behind the internal one, forcing Google to spend time merging patches. By fully shifting development in-house, the company aims to speed up updates and reduce inefficiencies. However, this does not mean Android is becoming a closed platform—Google will continue publishing source code for new Android versions and the Linux kernel. Yet, source code updates for individual Android components will now be released only after a new OS version launches.
Impact on Users and Developers
For regular Android users, this change will be largely invisible, adds NIX Solutions. The goal is to improve the development process, potentially speeding up new versions and reducing bugs, though it’s unlikely to affect how quickly updates reach devices.
App developers won’t be impacted either, but those contributing to AOSP might be disappointed. Without a Google Mobile Services (GMS) license, participation in Android development will become harder since publicly available code will lag behind by weeks or even months.
We’ll keep you updated as more details emerge on Google’s approach to Android development.