When it comes to developer friendly OEMs, Sony is generally somewhere towards the top of the list. While they have been known to do things such as wipe DRM keys when the bootloader is unlocked, they have had multiple developer programs over the years. From giving devices back to the community for their hard work to releasing easy step by step instructions to unlocking your Xperia phone, the company definitely ranks high up in terms of custom development. They're not deviating from that path just yet either, as the company has posted a guide for building AOSP Android 9 Pie on Xperia devices.

It's not so much a surprise as it is a welcome guide, though. With every major Android revision, the company releases AOSP build guides complete with software binaries. You can check out the full compatibility list below.

  • Xperia Touch (G1109)
  • Xperia X Compact (F5321)
  • Xperia X Performance (F8131)
  • Xperia X Performance Dual (F8132)
  • Xperia X (F5121)
  • Xperia X Dual (F5122)
  • Xperia XA2 (H3113)
  • Xperia XA2 Dual (H4113)
  • Xperia XA2 Ultra (H3213)
  • Xperia XA2 Ultra Dual (H4213)
  • Xperia XZ1 Compact (G8441)
  • Xperia XZ1 (G8341)
  • Xperia XZ1 Dual (G8342)
  • Xperia XZ Premium (G8141)
  • Xperia XZ Premium Dual (G8142)
  • Xperia XZ (F8331)
  • Xperia XZ Dual (F8332)
  • Xperia XZs (G8231)
  • Xperia XZs Dual (G8232)

If you want to compile AOSP for any of these devices, you're going to need a Linux-based operating system and a bootloader unlocked Sony device. Unlocking the bootloader is a pretty simple process, and you can follow the guide here to learn how to do that. You also need some other software such as Java and Repo Tool. The guide covers all of that. Once you're entirely set up, you can get going on building Android Pie for your device.

All you need to do is follow the step by step instructions. Sony is extremely comprehensive with their guide for building Android Pie, and nothing is left to question. It's a great way to get started on building your first ROM too! Be aware that it is aimed at advanced users and there is always the possibility of something happening to your smartphone when messing with its software. Android devices have a number of security mechanisms to prevent that, but it's still not impossible. If you're feeling adventurous, check out the link below!


Build Android Pie for your Sony Xperia smartphone