The Razer Phone was released in November 2017 as a phone specifically targeted for gamers. It has a high-end list of specifications including the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 system-on-chip, 8GB of RAM paired with 64GB of storage, 5.7-inch QHD (2560×1440) IGZO 120Hz IPS LCD, 12MP+12MP dual rear cameras, and a 4000mAh battery. The phone shipped with stock Android 7.1 Nougat, and it is now receiving an update to Android 8.1 Oreo.
Razer released kernel source code for the Razer Phone based on the Android Nougat release in December, and factory images were released in February. Now, the company has released kernel sources for the device based on the Android 8.1 Oreo release. Updated factory images for the update are also available.
Factory images of the Android 8.1 update means that users don’t have to wait for the official OTA to arrive on their device. Instead, they can choose to unlock their device’s bootloader (which will factory reset their device), and install the factory image. Interestingly, Razer specifically recommends users not to use the included USB Type-C to USB Type-C charging cable in the box to flash the factory image, because it has been specifically engineered for fast power delivery and not for data transfer. Instead, the company advises users to use a compliant USB Type-A to USB Type-C cable.
The Android 8.1 Oreo update for the Razer Phone contains Project Treble support. Users can also choose to root it and install Magisk, with TWRP being available as well.
Moving on to kernel sources, it’s good to see Razer releasing the kernel source code in a timely manner. The kernel source code has the potential to improve development for the device. The timing of the release is great, as the Android Oreo update only started rolling out to users this week. We applaud Razer for the timely release of kernel sources, and hope that its good run of form continues.
Download kernel source code and factory images for the Razer Phone’s Android 8.1 Oreo update