LineageOS 24 Launches With Android 17 Base and Material Design 3 Updates

LineageOS 24 is now officially available, providing users with builds based on Android 17 according to a report by 9to5Google. The release arrives earlier than the typical schedule, allowing users of existing builds to upgrade to Google’s latest operating system version ahead of the project’s tenth anniversary on December 24, 2026.

The initial LineageOS 24.0 release incorporates security patches dating from August 2025 through October 2026 across supported device branches. This early launch follows the initial release of Android 17 in June, marking a significant deviation from previous release cycles for the custom ROM team. The update focuses heavily on visual consistency, applying Material Design 3 Expressive styling to almost all core Lineage applications.

Design and Feature Updates

A new built-in image editor named Canvas is included in this release, handling basic cropping, white balance adjustments, and filters. This tool integrates with the existing Glimpse gallery and Aperture camera applications. The default music player, Twelve, sees performance improvements with faster load times for large media libraries and enhanced support for Jellyfin servers.

The browser application, Jelly, now supports progressive web app-like functionality through a new shortcut feature. This allows users to install web-based applications without relying on third-party app stores. These feature additions aim to broaden the utility of the default application suite for users who prefer not to install separate applications from external sources.

Installation and Support Changes

The team has introduced new WebUSB-based flashing tools that operate directly within a web browser. These tools support common installation protocols including ADB Fastboot, Amlogic Burn, and Samsung Odin, simplifying the process for users who lack confidence in traditional flashing methods. Standard device wiki guides remain the default and fully supported path for installation.

On the maintenance side, LineageOS is formally restricting future builds for older devices running Linux Kernel versions 4.4 and 4.9. This restriction applies to devices that rely on these older kernel versions, limiting the availability of new updates for hardware that cannot support newer kernel releases. The project continues to support devices running newer kernel versions without these specific limitations.

What should you do?

Users interested in upgrading should verify that their device supports the new kernel requirements before attempting installation. Those using WebUSB tools should ensure their browser supports the necessary protocols for flashing. Users should check the official LineageOS wiki for device-specific compatibility notes regarding kernel versions 4.4 and 4.9.

What to do and how to stay safe: LineageOS

• Check if your device is listed as supported for LineageOS 24 on the official wiki.
• Verify that your device runs a Linux kernel newer than version 4.9 to ensure future build eligibility.
• Back up all data before using WebUSB or traditional flashing tools to install the new ROM.
• Monitor official LineageOS channels for updates regarding security patch levels and supported branches.

General security guidance from the Threat Times newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

Does LineageOS 24 support devices with Linux Kernel 4.4?

No, LineageOS is formally restricting future builds for devices running Linux Kernel versions 4.4 and 4.9.

What new features does the Canvas app offer?

Canvas is a built-in image editor that handles basic cropping, white balance adjustments, and filters.

When is the LineageOS tenth anniversary?

The project celebrates its tenth anniversary on December 24, 2026.