HTC releases kernel source for HTC One X sans AT&T; AT&T version will also remained locked
HTC recently released the kernel source code for the HTC One X, making it the second device in the HTC One Series to be opened up to developers, in addition to the HTC One V. For those who are new to Android or to the root community, the kernel is basically the window into a device’s soul. It’s in charge of keeping everything running smoothly, including things like the radios, the camera, and other items that are crucial to the phone’s everyday operation. Without access to the kernel, developers are very restricted with what they can modify, and many things simply won’t work.
Interestingly enough, the source code for the AT&T version of the One X has not been released. This comes in the wake of news that the AT&T version also won’t be participating in HTC’s bootloader unlock program, which allows users to easily root their devices through an official channel in exchange for potentially voiding their warranties.
HTC has said that carrier restrictions from AT&T are what’s keeping the device from being unlocked, although it’s still committed to its unlock program in general:
HTC is committed to listening to users and delivering customer satisfaction. Since announcing our commitment to unlockable bootloaders, HTC has worked to enable our customers to unlock the bootloader on more than 45 devices over the past six months. In some cases, however, restrictions prevent certain devices from participating in our bootloader unlocking program. Rest assured, HTC is committed to assisting developers in unlocking bootloaders for HTC devices and we’ll continue to unlock additional devices in the future.
Even though I’m pretty impressed with the device after unboxing it and playing around with it for a bit, these actions on the part of AT&T have really turned me off to the idea of having a One Series device on AT&T’s network at all. Why give my business to such a restrictive company?
[HTCdev | Android Central]
