Key Points:
- LineageOS 21 now offers Android 14-based nightly builds for the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE and S20 FE 5G, extending the lifespan of these devices beyond Samsung’s official support.
- The update brings a plethora of improvements, including a revamped device setup flow, enhanced calculator app, modifications to the default camera and gallery apps, UI refinements, and performance boosts.
- Users should exercise caution when flashing LineageOS 21 on S20 FE models with Exynos 990 chips, as there may be compatibility issues due to incorrect device listings.
In a surprising turn of events, LineageOS 21 has breathed new life into the Samsung Galaxy S20 FE series by offering Android 14-based nightly builds. This move extends the longevity of these devices, which might have otherwise been left behind after Samsung ceased major updates and monthly patches.
Until now, the LineageOS project had refrained from officially supporting the S20 FE lineup, leaving users to resort to unofficial ROMs with their attendant risks and lack of support. However, with LineageOS 21 entering the picture, owners of these devices can now enjoy the latest Android version with greater stability and support.
The update brings a slew of enhancements, ranging from a revamped device setup flow to performance and stability improvements inherent in the Android 14 platform upgrade. Additionally, users can expect tweaks to the default camera and gallery apps, along with UI refinements and an improved calculator app.
It’s worth noting that while LineageOS 21’s support for the Snapdragon 865 variant of the S20 FE is robust, users with the Exynos 990-powered models may encounter complications. The Lineage builds incorrectly identify the 4G-only Exynos variant as having a Snapdragon chip, potentially leading to compatibility issues.
Despite this confusion, LineageOS 21’s support for the Galaxy S20 FE series underscores the importance of software sustainability in extending the lifespan of smartphones. For those seeking to prolong the usability of their devices with basic core functions, LineageOS 21 presents a viable solution.
To explore installation guides and download the appropriate builds, interested users can visit the official LineageOS project website.
