# Replicant's kernel_smdk_4412 kernel tree

> kernel used in Replicant for various Samsung devices

**Wikidata**: [Q104165392](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q104165392)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/replicant-s-kernel-smdk-4412-kernel-tree

## Summary
Replicant's kernel_smdk_4412 kernel tree is a free software kernel component used in Replicant (version 6.0) for Samsung devices, derived from LineageOS's android_kernel_smdk_4412 tree. It specifically supports devices like the GT-I9300 (Samsung Galaxy S III) and enables a fully free software mobile experience by replacing proprietary firmware with open-source alternatives.

## Key Facts
- License: GNU General Public License, version 2.0
- Used by: Replicant (specifically version 6.0)
- Based on: LineageOS's android_kernel_smdk_4412 kernel tree
- Instance of: free software
- Compatible with: GT-I9300 (Samsung Galaxy S III), per BoardConfig.mk reference
- Copyright status: copyrighted
- Part of: Replicant's free Android distribution for Samsung devices

## FAQs
### Q: What is Replicant's kernel_smdk_4412 kernel tree?
A: It is an open-source kernel component used in Replicant 6.0, a free Android distribution for Samsung devices like the GT-I9300, derived from LineageOS's kernel tree.

### Q: Which Samsung devices use this kernel?
A: It is confirmed for the GT-I9300 (Samsung Galaxy S III), with configuration documented in Replicant's device_samsung_i9300 repository.

### Q: Why is this kernel important for Replicant?
A: It replaces proprietary firmware in Samsung devices, enabling Replicant to provide a fully free software mobile operating system where users have rights to study, modify, and distribute the software.

### Q: How does it relate to LineageOS?
A: It is directly based on LineageOS's android_kernel_smdk_4412 kernel tree, adapting it for Replicant's free-software requirements.

### Q: What license governs this kernel?
A: It is licensed under the GNU General Public License, version 2.0, ensuring users' freedoms to run, modify, and share the software.

## Why It Matters
Replicant's kernel_smdk_4412 kernel tree is crucial for enabling a fully free software mobile ecosystem on Samsung devices, which otherwise rely on proprietary firmware that restricts user freedoms. By providing an open-source kernel for devices like the GT-I9300, Replicant users gain control over their hardware, free from vendor lock-in and surveillance risks. This kernel directly addresses the ethical and technical challenges of replacing non-free components in Android, contributing to broader free software principles in mobile technology and fostering a community-driven alternative to mainstream operating systems.

## Notable For
- Critical component enabling Replicant 6.0 on Samsung Exynos 4 Quad devices like the GT-I9300
- Only free software kernel option for Replicant on specific Samsung hardware
- Derived from LineageOS's kernel tree but adapted for Replicant's strict free-software requirements
- Part of Replicant's mission to eliminate proprietary firmware in mobile devices
- Publicly documented compatibility through BoardConfig.mk references in Replicant repositories

## Body
### Overview
Replicant's kernel_smdk_4412 kernel tree serves as the hardware abstraction layer for Replicant version 6.0 on Samsung devices. It is a modified derivative of LineageOS's android_kernel_smdk_4412 kernel tree, specifically designed to replace proprietary firmware in Samsung hardware.

### Technical Foundation
- **Source**: Based entirely on LineageOS's android_kernel_smdk_4412 kernel tree
- **License**: Distributed under GNU General Public License, version 2.0
- **Status**: Copyrighted software with user freedoms to run, study, modify, and distribute
- **Classification**: Falls under the free software class (sitelink count: 120)

### Compatibility Scope
- **Confirmed Devices**: GT-I9300 (Samsung Galaxy S III), verified through Replicant's BoardConfig.mk reference
- **Usage**: Mandatory component for Replicant 6.0 installation on supported devices
- **Role**: Interfaces with hardware components where proprietary firmware would otherwise be required

### Significance in Replicant Ecosystem
This kernel directly enables Replicant's core functionality by replacing non-free kernel components in Samsung devices. It represents a rare example of successfully adapting Android kernel code for strict free-software requirements, making it indispensable for users seeking control over their Samsung hardware without proprietary dependencies.

## References

1. [Source](https://git.replicant.us/replicant/device_samsung_i9300/tree/BoardConfig.mk#n37)