Xiaomi Releases Android Pie Kernel Sources for Redmi Note 8, Note 8 Pro

In keeping with its hope of releasing the kernel source codes of all its new smartphones within weeks of their commercial launch, Xiaomi has now uploaded the Android Pie kernel sources for the Redmi Note 8 (ginkgo) and Notation 8 Pro (begonia) on Github. The devices, which were unveiled in Cathay a few weeks dorsum, are expected to be launched in India next month.

The relatively quick release of the source codes for these 2 devices is further proof that Xiaomi is adjustment itself to the mainstream of Android smartphone vendors like Samsung, who typically releases the kernel sources of its devices earlier their global launch. The lack of kernel codes have earlier hindered third-party development for Xiaomi'due south smartphones in the by, so fans will at present exist happy to see that the visitor is post-obit through with its promise.

Xiaomi has often been criticized by FOSS proponents and developers for its failure to abide by the GNU Full general Public License v2 license, which governs open source software such every bit Android. The company has often either completely failed to release kernel sources for its smartphones and tablets, or released them long later the launch of the device, both of which are an outright violation of the GNU GPL license.

While one has to respect Xiaomi's definitive commitment to abide past the GPL, the iii-week delay is still a bit disappointing, especially when companies like Samsung have been extremely forthright in releasing the kernel sources of its devices. With its growing stature in the global smartphone market, the Chinese tech giant volition, hopefully, make information technology a indicate to start releasing the kernel codes simultaneously with the launch of the respective devices.