If you clicked on the article, you likely already have a good understanding of what this news refers to and its potential implications. On the off change that you don't, the basic concept is this: The Android OS core is a Linux kernel, which is distributed under the General Public License v2 (GPLv2). That allows manufacturers to modify the code, so it can work on their particular hardware platforms (smartphones, tablets, TV boxes, etc.) basically free of charge. The only legal requirement is that the modified code itself must be provided in its entirety, to any third party upon...
Source: https://www.gsmarena.com/xiaomi_commits_to_release_android_kernel_source_code_within_three_month_of_device_launch-news-30524.php