As you know, Android is an open-source operating system that allows developers and manufacturers to customize and improve it. But now, Google is making a big change: the development of the Android operating system will soon fully happen in private. While this might sound alarming to some, Google has no plan to restrict access. Instead, it wants to streamline the development process.
Google aims to simplify the Android OS development process
Right now, Google has two main Android branches: the public AOSP branch (anyone can access) and its internal development branch (restricted to companies with GMS licensing agreement). This allows Google to balance AOSPโs open nature with its product development strategy. According to a report from Android Authority, Google will soon shift all Android OS development to its internal branch with the intention of streamlining its development process.
Since Google currently develops large portions of Android in its internal branch, its public AOSP branch often remains behind the private version. As a result, maintaining two separate branches creates problems, especially when merging patches between the public AOSP branch and its internal branch. To fix this, Google will now develop Android privately and release updates only once they are fully ready.
Now, you might be wondering if Android will become a closed source. Thankfully, this change doesnโt mean that Android is becoming a closed source โ Google will still be publishing Androidโs source code publicly.
However, now, developers and the public will no longer see changes as they happen. This means that developers wonโt get early access to features, Custom ROM developers will need to wait longer for new code, and tech reporters will have a more challenging time finding clues about upcoming Android updates.
The report adds that Google will announce these changes later this week. To stay updated, check for the official announcement and new information on source.android.com. Currently, Google is reportedly planning to release the official version of Android 16 in June 2025, which is earlier than its usual release schedule.
