Exclusive: Google will develop the Android OS fully in private, and here's why
Google has confirmed it will move development of the Android OS to behind closed doors. Here's why it's doing it.
Tldr:
To balance AOSP’s open nature with its product development strategy, Google maintains two primary Android branches: the public AOSP branch and its internal development branch. The AOSP branch is accessible to anyone, while Google’s internal branch is restricted to companies with a Google Mobile Services (GMS)licensing agreement.
Beginning next week, all Android development will occur within Google’s internal branches, and the source code for changes will only be released when Google publishes a new branch containing those changes. As this is already the practice for most Android component changes, Google is simply consolidating its development efforts into a single branch.
Fuck, looks like it's time to start looking at more alternatives to Android phones.
Already got an old one rooted. We need a solid Linux alternative or potentially a European company to start development.
If any of y'all know of a good, usable platform, I'd love to know about it.
Well if Google is forced to sell it off or spin Android off into its own company, we’ll see if it remains private.
Possibly incorrect summary: Android is moving from a bazaar development style to a cathedral development style if I understand it correctly.