Sony has released the AOSP Android v6.0 Marshmallow configuration and binaries, today, for all supported Xperia devices listed under its Open Device program. It has also added its latest Xperia Z5 flagship smartphones to the list of supported models.
The Android Marshmallow configuration and binaries will allow developers to create custom ROMs for supported Xperia devices, based on the latest Android version. The resources are available for all Qualcomm-based Xperia devices that have been released 2014 onwards. It includes the Xperia M2, T2 Ultra, Z2, Z3, Z3 Compact, Z4 Tablet, and the latest Z5 models. “Through the Open Device program, we provide these resources early for the community, so that you have time to learn, build and test new Android features, or use them on your custom ROM,” Sony said. Developers can contribute towards the official ROM development by upstreaming patches to the GitHub repository and providing feedback.
Sony recently announced a list of devices which will be receiving an official update to Android v6.0 Marshmallow, although no timeline has been set for when users can expect to get it on their phones. The newer upper-tier models are expected to receive the update first, followed by the others. The company rolled out the Android Lollipop v5.1.1 update for older Xperia Z, ZR, ZL and Tablet Z devices only last month. There have also been reports that it fails to fully patch the Stagefright bug. These devices have not been listed by Sony to receive official updates to Marshmallow. However, the company has released the AOSP binaries and configuration files, allowing developers to port it to these devices.
Google formally released Android Marshmallow on September 29. The update started rolling out to Nexus devices from 5th October, and has been made available to other manufacturers. Samsung, HTC, Motorola, and LG have all announced the list of devices which will receive the update. Android v6.0 brings with it some new features, which include advanced privacy settings, native fingerprint scanner support, and Android Pay. It will also support the USB Type-C port.