LG’s first Android One smartphone may be a T-Mobile exclusive in the United States, according to some hints scattered around the kernel source code of the unreleased LG Stylo 4 handset, XDA Developers reports. The Stylo 4 itself is rumored to be hitting T-Mobile’s MetroPCS later today, with the South Korean phone maker already publishing its kernel source code ahead of its official announcement as part of a highly unconventional move. The Android One handset referenced in its sibling’s kernel sources will also be released outside of the U.S. but its international variant isn’t labeled by the “sprout” codename which has historically been used to denote devices launching as part of Google’s stock Android program. Japan and South Korea are two other countries which are specifically referenced in regards to its availability, whereas LG is referring to the smartphone as “cv5a,” as per the same report.
Some industry watchers are now speculating the device is a stateside variant of the LG Q7, a value-oriented offering introduced several weeks back. Based on that possibility and a number of other code hints discovered in the kernel source code of the LG Stylo 4, the Q7 is assumed to be powered by up to 3GB of RAM and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 450 chip, though one that has its 64-bit mode disabled. A 5.5-inch FHD+ panel may also be part of the package, together with a 3,000mAh battery, NFC support, and Android 8.1 Oreo.
The code lists the T-Mobile version of the device as a product that lacks a fingerprint reader, but its counterpart meant to be sold internationally will reportedly feature that authentication solution. While LG and Google‘s partnership has been strengthening in recent times, the Seoul-based tech giant has yet to release a single Android One device nearly four years since the stock Android program was first announced. The Stylo 4 itself is expected to eventually launch on a global level, providing consumers with a relatively affordable stylus-equipped smartphone option.