Android’s security team frequently backports fixes from newer kernels into older LTS versions. Kernel 4.14.117 incorporated crucial hardening patches, including:
Kernel 4.14 was designated as an LTS release, meaning it received extended support and backported security fixes far beyond standard versions. In the world of Android, Google often selects specific LTS branches to serve as "Android Common Kernels." Version 4.14 became a staple for devices launching with Android 9 (Pie) and Android 10, providing a mature foundation for Qualcomm, MediaTek, and Exynos chipsets. kernel version 4.14.117 android
Android 8.0 introduced Project Treble, modularizing the OS to separate vendor implementations from the Android framework. Kernel 4.14 was the first version where Treble was truly mature. Version 4.14.117 represented a "reference kernel" for many OEMs implementing Treble 2.0, ensuring that generic system images (GSIs) could boot across devices with minimal modification. Android 8
While the Android world has moved toward kernels 5.10, 5.15, and even 6.x, the 4.14.117 revision remains a benchmark for "legacy" stability. Many budget devices and older flagships still rely on this branch. Because it is an LTS kernel, it ensures that even older hardware can remain relatively secure against modern threats. While the Android world has moved toward kernels 5
Kernel 4.14 was the final version that seamlessly supported both 32-bit (ARMv7) and 64-bit (ARMv8) architectures without significant performance penalties. Many low-end and mid-range Android devices released between 2018 and 2020 shipped with 4.14.x kernels. By the time 4.14.117 rolled out, it had matured into a "goldilocks" kernel—stable enough for production, yet modern enough to support new hardware features like:
