[UPDATE: SDK, too] ROM developers be damned: Android 4.2 headed to AOSP right now; factory images available
Well that didn’t take long, did it? Shortly after the launch of the Nexus 4 and Nexus 10 here in the United States Google is already delivering the latest and greatest version of Android to the Android Open Source Project. What does this mean for users? Well, not much unless you also happen to be a developer. This code will make it possible for some of your favorite ROM makers, like the CyanogenMod team, to begin work on the next major iterations of their Android 4.2-infused wares.
There’s no telling how long it’ll take each individual ROM to incorporate Android 4.2, but you’ll want to keep your eyes and ears close to the development street by visiting XDA and RootzWiki. Some will take longer than others (we’re just now getting CyanogenMod in stable Jelly Bean form starting today) but just know that your favorite developers will most likely be grabbing this code as soon as they can and begin work right away.
In very related news, you can find factory images for the “takju” Galaxy Nexus and both Nexus 7 variants on Google’s developer site, as well as drivers for the all Nexus devices starting from the Galaxy Nexus up. Finally, Jean-Baptiste Queru reminds folks that there’s no ETA on an OTA — news on that will have to come later. Go ahead and start preparing to full those files, developers, and us mere flash-happy ROM addicts will be patiently awaiting some good news.
[via Google Groups]
[Update]: developers can now download the Android 4.2 SDK. New changes that developers can implement include lockscreen widgets, renderscript rendering via the GPU for the Nexus 10, support for external displays and more. Be sure to head to the Android Developers site for details on how to get it.