Changes to Android Open Source Project

Starting in 2026, Google will publish Android’s open-source code to the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) only twice a year — in Q2 and Q4 — and tells developers to track the “android-latest-release” branch instead of “aosp-main.” In plain English: fewer public code drops, more focus on stability for the wider Android ecosystem.

That tweak sent the comments into overdrive. TechTechTech boiled it down to “twice per year instead of every quarter.” yjftsjthsd-h asked, “What’s the point?” and why not release code as it ships. charcircuit read the subtext: OEMs (phone makers) don’t want to look outdated or pay to refresh code four times a year. rtpg tried a good faith angle: keep AOSP-derived systems stable and avoid outside contributors chasing a moving target. Then exabrial took it full rebel: we need a freedom-first alternative where Big Tech can’t lock down your device.

Cue memes: “Android Dry Season,” “Code Fasting 2026,” and Google putting Android on a diet. Some sighed in relief — “finally, fewer update hangovers” — while others smelled corporate compromise. Is this smart calm or a slow-roll to please manufacturers? The vibe: popcorn-ready, split between stability fans and control skeptics, all waiting for the next Changes to AOSP post.