By the virtue of the General Public License v2, Android smartphone manufacturers are bound to provide the source code of any Linux kernel binaries they have shipped on devices they sell upon request. Kernel source releases also help developers cook up custom ROMs and enhanced third party kernels which, in turn, boosts the aftermarket modding scene for the device. LG, for example, has recently published Android 10 kernel source package for a couple of phones before even rolling out the stable updates to fulfill their legal obligation. The OEM has now taken another step forward and released the kernel source code for its upcoming Velvet lineup.
Replaces the iconic LG G series, the LG Velvet is confirmed to come with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 765 processor with 5G connectivity support. At the time of reporting, we can only spot the kernel source code corresponding to the model numbers LMG900N and LMG900NO, which are likely the Korean models. Other model names for the LG Velvet, as confirmed by Wireless Power Consortium listings, include LM-G900UM/QM/GM/FMW/EMW/EM. The current package is based on the software version v10a, which might be the build version of the factory-installed Android 10 firmware for the Korean edition of the LG Velvet.
ZTE, meanwhile, has also published the kernel source codes for two of its current-gen 5G phones. The first candidate is the ZTE Axon 11, which is powered by a Snapdragon 765G SoC. Currently, the phone is available only in China, but it was recently added to Google's list of Play Certified devices and appears on the Google Play Console's Device Catalog, indicating that it may soon launch outside of China with GMS.
ZTE Axon 11 5G Kernel Sources: A2021E || A2021L
Lastly, we have the Nubia Red Magic 5G, a monstrous phone with an active cooling fan from ZTE's gaming-focused Nubia lineup. Unlike the other two devices, this one is carrying a flagship-grade Snapdragon 865 SoC. The modding community already started tinkering with the Nubia Red Magic 5G, and now the release of the kernel source should help kickstart further development on the device.
Nubia Red Magic 5G XDA Forums || Nubia Red Magic 5G Kernel Sources