Android kernel vendor hooks discussed at Linux Plumbers Conference

At the 2026 Linux Plumbers Conference, a session was held to discuss the use of vendor hooks in the Android kernel. Android kernels have historically diverged from the mainline kernel, with many out-of-tree changes still present in current devices. Vendor hooks are the preferred method for implementing these changes. The session, led by Todd Kjos, covered the topic of vendor hooks and their usage.

Vendor hooks in the Android kernel

• Vendor hooks are used to implement out-of-tree changes in Android kernels
• Many Android kernels still carry a significant number of out-of-tree changes
• The use of vendor hooks is the preferred method for implementing these changes

Why it matters

The discussion of vendor hooks in the Android kernel highlights the ongoing efforts to bring Android closer to the mainline kernel, which could lead to improved kernel maintainability and reduced fragmentation.