Getting the source code is only one piece of the puzzle, before you do that, have you checked it the bootloader is unlockable? Because if you can't unlock the bootloader then there's no point trying to get the kernel sources.
this post was submitted on 04 Feb 2024
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The ability to unlock the bootloader is actually irrelevant in this case. I want the source code because it is my right. I might find away to boot custom code or I may not. Either way I still want the sources to study at least.
The ability to unlock the bootloader is actually irrelevant in this case. I want the source code because it is my right. I might find away to boot custom code or I may not.
And what will you do with it exactly? Without unlocking the bootloader, it's basically useless. You should concentrate your efforts on seeing if you can unlock the bootloader first.
Either way I still want the sources to study at least.
There wouldn't be anything interesting about those sources, except the binary blobs/DTB. Unless you're expecting to find some malware or something. If you're really interested in studying the kernel/Android sources, you can always head to https://source.android.com/ or https://kernel.org/. There are also more interesting sources over at LineageOS and GrapheneOS.
As for streaming services I use Jellyfin so its not a big deal.
Then why did you even bother buying this box? You'd have been better off using a Raspberry Pi or some HTPC, where could load any opensource distro or even easily compile your own, and have a far greater deal of flexibility.
I want the source code because it is my right. If you don't use your rights you will lose them. As for the boot loader unlocking I will need to study the device for vulnerabilities to see if I can get around the normal hardware security. With any luck I might just be able to find a security hole.
I remember way back, around 2013, asking Gigabyte Mobile for the kernel source of one of their devices (Mika M3) via their business support.
Needless to say, they obliged! They uploaded it and then gave a link to an FTP server and credentials to use it.
So sometimes it's just worth asking.
I couldn't compile it fwiw, because it was missing key Mediatek components, but eh, what can you do...
Isn't it typically just kernel sources that would need to be released under GPL? A custom kernel is typically a few steps later in bringing up a custom rom for a device. The existing build is probably enough to try and get twrp running if you can get the bootloader unlocked.
Edit: All the same, very noble. Best of luck getting the sources, and making something useful of them.