The Sony Xperia Z is now part of the Android Open Source Project, allowing greater access for partners and developers.
Most of the Sony Xperia Z is accessible, including LED, GPS, the SD-card, WiFi and sensors. However, the camera and modem are restricted. There is a possibility that Sony will be able to change this in the future, but that would require some negotiation.
There are some additional limitations to open sourcing for the Sony Xperia Z. Since the software is not for everyday use, some standard services and applications are lacking. Sony, however, is providing binaries that will allow developers to have the drivers necessary for chipsets. It should be noted that, in regard to Qualcomm's license, there are some restrictions on how these binaries can be used.
Sony has said that the binaries it has provided via its Developer World site will be replaced not too long from now by source codes and binaries for NFC. This should allow for more opportunities for developers using the Sony Xperia Z.
Sony claims that the move to make the Xperia Z part of the Android Open Source Project falls under its effort to encourage increased involvement from developers.
"It's part of our ongoing commitment to support and collaborate with the Android community - the Sony software code will be open for external developers to work with and contribute to," Sony stated in a blog post.
Those interested in the open-sourced Sony Xperia Z can find more information at Sony Developer World.
