gebna

Google made money on Android. As long as you're not making direct changes to Kernel code, you're free to close source anything you add. The existence of AOSP didn't prevent the Playstore or google play service from making Google the sole controller of Android. That's how it turns into a goldmine.

I daily drove it. Mint + Cinnamon is more stable.

I'm the writer. I do not know how it blew up on HN but I thank OP for sharing and thank you all for reading.