Android 5.1 AOSP OS now available on Mesa 2

13 Apr 2017

The Android 5.1 Open Source Project (AOSP) operating system is now available on the Mesa 2. This optionally replaces the standard Microsoft Windows 10 Pro 64-bit x86 operating system.

A Mesa 2 can be submitted to have the operating system replaced, though this also requires replacement of the keypad labels as well. To submit, follow the instructions and fill out the form in our repair policies.

Android 5.1 (Lollipop) provides many features and supports many apps which are shared by consumer smartphones and tablets. Because this is the open source version of the operating system, Google Mobile Services are not included. One of the most notable differences is that the Google Play store is not available, so apps must be manually installed by transferring and running the associated APK install file.

Useful information for app developers is provided in the release notes document.