AOSP Extended (AEX) is an open source custom ROM based on stock Android AOSP source code. It provides a clean and minimalist UI experience coupled with useful new features and customization options. The ROM aims to keep the stock Android look and feel, while adding value through performance enhancements, tweaks, and power user utilities.
AOSP Extended has been under active development since 2012 with contributions from developers worldwide. It supports a wide range of popular Android smartphones.C
Features of AOSP
Base Android System
AOSP provides the core Android OS including the Linux kernel, hardware abstraction layer, Android runtime, and core system libraries.
Stock Android Interface
It contains the stock Android interface users see on Pixel devices, with default apps, widgets, settings, and functionalities.
Access to Source Code
The full source code for AOSP is available under open source licenses. Developers can view and modify it to create custom ROMs.
Regular Security Updates
Google provides regular security patches that are integrated into AOSP to fix vulnerabilities and keep it secure.
Developer APIs
AOSP includes the SDKs and APIs that developers can use to build Android apps or integrate with Android features.
Advantages of Using AOSP
- Android Open Source Project (AOSP) offers the pure, unadulterated Android experience straight from Google. It provides the latest stock Android user interface and features without any unnecessary bloatware or add-ons from device manufacturers or carriers.
- Using AOSP allows you to enjoy Android the way Google designed it in a lean and efficient package. The open source nature also means the community can build and contribute to AOSP. This allows continued innovation from developers around the world.
- AOSP serves as an excellent stable base for custom ROM development. The simplicity of AOSP code makes it easy for developers to modify and customize to their needs for creating custom ROMs. These ROMs inherit AOSP’s solid, reliable code base.
- Being directly maintained by Google, AOSP enables timely security updates to patch vulnerabilities. Using AOSP ensures you get updates as soon as Google releases them.
- The lack of bloat provides more storage space and resources for your own apps and services instead of unnecessary additions. You also get full control over customization options to tailor the OS to your preferences.
- In addition, AOSP extends the lifespan of older devices by allowing continued OS updates even when the manufacturer stops supporting it. This allows enjoying the latest Android even on dated hardware.
- Overall, AOSP provides the optimal Android experience with performance, stability, customization, frequent updates, and community involvement. It’s an excellent choice for Android enthusiasts looking to maximize their user experience.
AOSP Extended Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Close to stock Android look and feel
- Useful additions without going overboard
- Active development and updates
- Focus on stability and performance
- Great device support community
Cons:
- Fewer features compared to heavier custom ROMs
- Certain country/carrier-specific device features may not work
- VoLTE may not work in some cases
- Banking apps compatibility issues
AOSP Extended Installation Guide
Here are the standard steps to install AOSP Extended:
STEP 1. Ensure your Android model is officially supported.
STEP 2. Unlock the bootloader and install TWRP custom recovery.
STEP 3. Backup current ROM via recovery.
STEP 4. Download AOSP Extended ROM package for your device model.
STEP 5. Boot into recovery, wipe data and cache partitions.
STEP 6. Flash the AEX ROM .zip package.
STEP 7. Reboot system, set up apps and settings.
STEP 8. Optional – Use Magisk to enable VoLTE, SafetyNet passing etc.
AOSP (Android Open Source Project) code is useful for developers:
There are some information about it:
- Allows studying and learning the core Android OS codebase which aids app development. Developers can see how the framework components work under the hood.
- Can be used as a starting base for building custom ROMs and other modified versions of Android. Popular custom ROMs like LineageOS and AOSP Extended are based on AOSP.
- Access to latest versions of Android even before OEMs launch them. Helpful for app developers to test compatibility with new Android releases early.
- Can build own Android images for virtual devices or physical devices for testing purposes. Helps test apps and simulate scenarios that may not be possible with retail devices.
- Contribute fixes and improvements back to AOSP through code commits for the benefit of the overall Android ecosystem.
- Leverage various frameworks, services, APIs available in AOSP code to build powerful apps with enhanced capabilities.
- Eliminates vendor/device specific customization layers, providing a pure Android experience closer to the Pixel/Nexus devices.
Best Custom ROM Alternatives
LineageOS
LineageOS is one of the most popular and long-running custom ROMs. Based on stock Android, it provides a clean interface and smooth performance along with customization options and regular updates. With support for many devices, it’s a stable choice for custom ROM users.
crDroid
crDroid aims to provide the best of AOSP Android along with useful customizations. Fast and lightweight, it offers a stock-like experience with extras like status bar icons, themes, and custom quick settings. With frequent updates and support for many devices, crDroid is a customizable ROM choice.
Liquid remix
Liquid remix focuses on unique customizations on top of AOSP Android. With themes, gestures, UI tweaks, and extra features, it allows extensive personalization of the interface and experience. Regular updates and broad device support make Liquid remix a standout for customization fans.
Conclusion
The availability of Android Open Source Project (AOSP) source code is an invaluable resource for Android developers. It enables them to deeply understand the core framework and internals of the operating system by directly examining the code. This knowledge aids app development as developers can see how the OS works at a lower level.
Access to AOSP allows developers to build custom versions of Android for devices and test new features and modifications more easily. They can customize the OS to their needs without having to rely on what manufacturers provide. The open source nature also means developers can contribute their improvements back to AOSP for the benefit of all.
Having the latest Android code from AOSP helps developers ensure their apps are compatible with new OS releases. It enables them to support the latest APIs and take advantage of new capabilities as soon as possible.
Overall, the transparency provided by the public AOSP source code empowers developers to better leverage the OS, build innovative features, contribute to the ecosystem, and make Android more powerful through customization. It is an invaluable resource that enables developers to be at the forefront of Android innovation.
F.A.Q
Q1. What is the difference between LineageOS and AOSP Extended?
A1. LineageOS offers more features while AOSP Extended focuses on stock Android experience with minor additions.
Q2. How to create custom ROM from AOSP?
A2. Build AOSP source, add modifications and features as needed, then compile it into a flashable ROM package.
Q3. How to install AOSP ROM?
A3. Unlock bootloader, install custom recovery like TWRP, backup stock ROM, then flash AOSP ROM zip.
Q4. Is AOSP legal?
A4. Yes, AOSP is legal if the original device firmware was obtained legally.
Q5. What are the disadvantages of AOSP?
A5. Potential stability issues, lack of OEM software support, reduced battery life, SafetyNet failing.
