Sony has done the world a favor today, releasing the kernel source code for their newest handset. The Xperia Z1S, which is only available through T-Mobile, launched at CES to much fanfare. A powerful device that should keep us all satiated until the Xperia Z2 comes out, Sony is encouraging custom ROMs and other tweaks be made to it.
This move toes the line in a recent about-face from Sony. Whe they got back into the smartphone game full time, they adopted the customization community in short order, a pleasant change from what other OEMs tend to do. The Japanese OEM unlocked bootloaders, and released kernel source codes as needed. There was no digging or tweaking; Sony was making it easy on us.
T-Mobile, on the other hand, may not be. Reports suggest they’ve asked Sony to lock the bootloader for the Z1S, effectively ending the customization parade. Though unconfirmed, it would be nearly devastating should Sony do so. The Xperia Z1S is only available via T-Mobile, meaning no other carrier even has a variant we could use. Of course, we could get the device outright via Sony, but most consumers go through carriers for devices.
For now, and hopefully for the foreseeable future, the kernel source code is available from Sony. We really enjoy the Z1S, and have no issue with Sony’s take on Android, but we also like the option to switch it up. It’s also doubtful that Sony would give in to T-Mobile, but you just never know.
VIA: Android Police