Would I Get the Latest Version of Android Forever like Nexus Devices with Cyanogen OS?
Many users ask if a phone with Cyanogen OS can receive Android updates like the efforts were made for Nexus devices. However, the concept of Cyanogen OS and its relationship with Android updates needs clarification.
Understanding Cyanogen OS and Custom ROMs
Before entering the realm of smartphones, Cyanogen was a group of Android enthusiasts and developers dedicated to building custom ROMs over the stock Android system. A custom ROM is essentially a modified version of the Android OS designed to work with specific devices, offering unique features and performance tweaks.
Contrast this with the stock / retail ROM that comes with any new smartphone. This version of Android is the original, unmodified build provided by the manufacturer. For Nexus devices, it is specifically the pure Android build. Vendors often customize the stock Android build, adding their own applications and bloatware before releasing the device, except for the Moto EGX series from Motorola.
The Community Effort of Custom ROMs
The Cyanogen group's mission was to create custom ROMs like CyanogenMod, based on the pure Android build, and support their development beyond the typical lifecycle of a device. This community-driven approach ensured that phones like the HTC Explorer, released in 2011, could still receive custom ROM updates and enhancements well beyond their intended support period.
When Cyanogen launched their smartphones like Yuphoria, Yureka, One Plus, they introduced their own Cyanogen OS, which is essentially an improved version of the stock Android build. This means that as long as the community supports the development of these devices, they can continue to receive updates.
The Role of the Community in Updates
The extent to which these Cyanogen-based devices can receive Android updates depends on the community's efforts. While the latest version of Android M and beyond can be expected, the duration of support is contingent on the community's ability to maintain the OS and integrate new Android versions.
Conclusion
While Cyanogen-based devices like Nexus devices could receive updates, the support and updates rely heavily on the community's dedication. Therefore, the latest Android version is not guaranteed for these devices forever, but the community-driven nature of custom ROMs ensures that updates can be sustained for a longer period, often far beyond the manufacturer's support.
For interested users, detailed information and updates can be found through the official community resources and support forums.