Android 4.4.3 KitKat Rooting Problems Possible, Release Delayed but Samsung Galaxy S4 and S5 Testing Spotted
Google's upcoming Android 4.4.3 update has been making the headlines especially with its bug-fixing nature. Unlike previous updates, the primary goal of the update is to solve issues and bugs that older versions of the OS have caused. Despite the promise of the update to address OS issues and bugs, Chainfire, popular creator and developer of SuperSU and CF-Auto-Root tools, voiced out his concerns about the upcoming firmware. There may be rooting issues surrounding Android 4.4.3.
According to the developer's post, the Android Open Source Project changes to come with Android 4.4.3 may cause some problems for the Android rooting process. Likewise, Chainfire also pointed out potential issues that can change how users and developers work with Android root access.
According to a report by Android Community, the perceived problems stem from the Android's SeLinux adoption. This refers to a framework used to improve the security across Linux systems. Android systems are essentially built upon Linux. To make sure the OS remains reliable and secure for regular users, Android uses extremely restrictive SELinux policies. These policies prevent applications from getting Android root access. Chainfire has pointed out these issues in January although there have not been as much change.
Looking at the changes made in the ASOP source code suggests that there could be problems along the way. Google's possible move to Android Runtime or ART may affect the entire system. Apps that run under this setup can access root that they cannot before ART. This may cause the entire Android system to crash then reboot.
Until Google releases the final details of the Android 4.4.3, people may have to look closely whether they should update or not. For those wondering whether Google will push through with the update, NDTV reported about leaked document suggesting Samsung has been testing an Android version 4.4.3 on its Samsung Galaxy S4 LTE and Samsung Galaxy S5 variants. According to the leaked document, the estimated arrival of the software is not yet available. Google will be holding its I/O Conference this June. The company may shed more light on its upcoming series of firmware.