GPLv2 Violation] Kernel Source Code Not Released for Xiaomi 17T (codename: chaggal)

The Xiaomi 17T (codename: chaggal), released globally on May 28, 2026, ships with a modified Linux kernel as part of Android 16 / HyperOS 3. Under the GNU General Public License version 2 (GPLv2), Xiaomi is legally obligated to release the complete, corresponding, and buildable kernel source code upon distribution of the device.

As of June 15, 2026, nearly three weeks post-launch, the kernel source for chaggal has not been published on the MiCode Kernel OpenSource repository.
Device Information:

Commercial Name: Xiaomi 17T

Codename: chaggal

Release Date: May 28, 2026

Chipset: MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Ultra

OS: Android 16 (HyperOS 3)

Expected Branch: chaggal-{android_version_letter}-oss (e.g., chaggal-w-oss or chaggal-v-oss depending on Android 16 mapping) 

GPLv2 Compliance Requirement:

Per Section 3 of the GPLv2, distributors must:

Provide the complete corresponding source code (including device trees, drivers, and build scripts).

Make the source available to any third party.

Ensure the source is buildable and matches the shipped binary. 

Delaying release beyond a reasonable timeframe (typically concurrent with or shortly after launch) violates the license terms.
Impact:

Blocks development of custom kernels, recoveries (TWRP), and custom ROMs.

Prevents community security auditing and independent vulnerability patching.

Undermines the open-source ecosystem and user freedoms guaranteed by the GPL. 

Request:

We urge Xiaomi to:

Immediately publish the complete kernel source code for chaggal on the official MiCode GitHub.

Include all proprietary blobs, device trees, and necessary build instructions.

Establish a consistent release schedule for future devices to prevent recurrence.

Check the MiCode Xiaomi_Kernel_OpenSource repository for a chaggal-{android_version_letter}-oss branch and compare its contents with the requested Android 16 kernel materials. Done means Xiaomi has published complete, buildable corresponding source, including device trees, drivers, and build scripts, with build instructions.