LineageOS is getting an early Android 17 upgrade, and there's plenty more to like

LineageOS is getting ready to bring Android 17 to more devices with its latest update. The new software also introduces redesigned apps, additional security patches, and new tools designed to make installing the custom ROM easier.

In its latest blog post, the platform says it has been able to rebase its customizations onto Android 17 faster than usual this year. The makers also note that this update is special as it arrives ahead of LineageOS’ 10th anniversary on December 24, 2026.

LineageOS 24: What’s new?

One of the biggest changes is the introduction of LineageOS 24.0, which the team says has reached feature and stability parity with LineageOS 23.2 and is ready for an initial release. Builds will initially be available for a selection of devices (see blog post), with more to follow in the future.

Devices using older Linux kernel versions 4.4 and 4.9 will be limited to LineageOS 22.2, although existing support for those devices will continue under the project’s stated security patch policy.

The update also brings security patches dating from August 2025 through October 2026 to LineageOS versions 18.1 through 24.0, with older branches receiving patches where possible.

Beyond the Android upgrade, LineageOS is refreshing its built-in apps with Google’s Material Design 3 Expressive design language. Highlights include a brand new image editor called Canvas. It’s meant for basic photo edits such as cropping, white balance adjustments, and filters. The platform says it pairs well with its existing Glimpse gallery and Aperture camera applications.

The Updater app has also received a redesign, with improved animations and a cleaner interface. Updates will now be streamed by default on supported A/B devices, which the team says should reduce installation times. Other apps, including the Jelly browser and Twelve music player, are also getting improvements.

Another notable addition is a set of browser-based installation tools for ADB, Fastboot, Amlogic Burn, and Samsung Odin. These use WebUSB to communicate with compatible devices, potentially eliminating the need to install separate flashing utilities on a computer. However, LineageOS says its existing device-specific installation guides remain the recommended approach.

Moreover, the project says it has completed an accessibility audit covering the installation process and its app suite, with some changes already made to the recovery interface. Its documentation has also been expanded, including an updated FAQ and a redesigned wiki.