What you need to know
- Android 13-based LineageOS 20 is coming early to the Google Pixel 6 and Pixel 7 lines.
- The latest support expands the list of devices that support LineageOS 20 to include devices from OnePlus, Sony and Xiaomi.
- In the long term, this means that Google’s latest devices will continue to receive (unofficial) software support beyond the official update roadmap.
LineageOS, one of the leading custom ROM projects to breathe new life into aging Android devices, now has its latest version on Google’s latest flagship phones.
Android 13-based LineageOS 20 is rolling out to Google’s Pixel 6, Pixel 6a, and Pixel 7 lines, bringing modding capabilities to owners of those devices, according to 9to5Google. (opens in new tab)The new support comes as these phones are still on Google’s update schedule for the long haul.
LineageOS 20 officially debuts (opens in new tab) January introduced many improvements, including a new camera app called Aperture. The default camera app is based on Google’s CameraX library and offers a near-stock camera app experience on many of the best Android phones subject to updates.
Late last month, custom ROMs breathed new life into Google’s traditional Pixel 2 series, offering some Android 13 goodies. Official support for these devices ended with Android 11 in 2020, but LineageOS 20 is notable for extending its service life, albeit unofficially.
Aside from these Pixel phones, the latest LineageOS version was previously featured on the OnePlus 9R, Sony Xperia 5 II, Samsung Galaxy Tab A 8.0 Wi-Fi, and Redmi Note 9, according to XDA Developers. (opens in new tab).
That said, having LineageOS 20 on the latest Pixel models might not really mean much unless the owner wants unrestricted mod access to their phone.
LineageOS 20 builds aren’t available for download right now, according to 9to5, but these should be coming to the Pixel 6 and 7 lines in the next few days.
The Pixel 7 Pro is Google’s best smartphone yet thanks to its stunning design, large 120Hz OLED display, long battery life, and fast Tensor G2 chip that keeps everything running smoothly. The camera system is also excellent and makes images stand out.
