For many people a major upgrade to the operating system of their preference is a big deal and in that respect many Android enthusiasts are already looking forward to 5.0 Key Lime Pie. We’ve already been bringing you news and speculation about this next big upgrade amid rumors that it may be introduced at Google I/O in May. Now we have some interesting news as it seems Google is testing the Linux 3.8 kernel and could be preparing it for Key Lime Pie.

The code for the Linux kernel 3.8 is in Google’s public kernel repository marked experimental and the significant thing about this is that it is a notable jump from kernel version 3.4 in Android Jelly Bean 4.2.2. Features include Exynos DRM code enhancements, support for open-source NVIDIA Tegra drives, Samsung F2FS flash-friendly file system kernel merger and also lower RAM usage.

The latter is particularly interesting as it indicates less memory is used than prior versions and for mobile enthusiasts that’s a big plus point as mobile devices don’t have as much memory as desktop and laptop products. Although these are reported to be experimental stages it seems that Google has made a fair amount of progress already and while nothing is yet confirmed it’s quite possible that Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie might benefit from the new kernel.

We’ll certainly be following developments of Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie and will let you know more as we hear it. While we’re waiting you may be interested in our recent post on Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean features and whether this will be the last update before Key Lime Pie. Alternatively you may like to read our iOS 7 vs. Android Key Lime Pie popularity post.

Do you think there’s a realistic chance that Android 5.0 Key Lime Pie may see the debut of the Linux 3.8 kernel? Send us your Key Lime Pie comments.

Source: Phoronix