Android update for Motorola XT720 - from provider

End customers know the problem that the manufacturers are somewhat "tedious" when it comes to updates for Android smartphones. Now, with Cincinnati Bell, a provider has unusual route and released an update for the Motorola XT720 himself - including instructions on how to circumvent the manufacturer's locks. This is possible because Android is open source and any ambitious developer is able to customize the system.

For the customers it is of course an advantage (even if only upgrading to Android 2.2), for Motorola it is embarrassing: the job that should have been done by the manufacturer was taken over by the network operator. The network operator also takes over the warranty for devices that were provided with the alternative update. If this approach becomes popular, smartphone manufacturers may find themselves under pressure and be comfortable bringing regular updates for "older" devices.