Optimistic Kernel for Google Pixel 9a - 11 September 2025

Introduction

This is a custom kernel based on the excellent no-frills Sultan Kernel developed by @Sultanxda

The philosophy remains the same: to be a simple, stable replacement for the stock kernel that brings several under-the-hood enhancements for performance and battery life.

Kernel Features

This port carries over the core features from the original Sultan Kernel. For a detailed list of features and improvements, please refer to the >> original thread <<.

• Compiled by the latest Google Prebuilt Clang 21.0.0 (based on r574158) with Link Time Optimisation (LTO).
• Merged with the latest Android Common Kernel 6.1.145
• Keep Capacity Aware Superset Scheduler (CASS), Tensor AIO from Sultan
• Improved RAM management: disable SLMK, bring back MGLRU, PSI and MEMCG
• CPU & I/O Optimizations: Tuned the classic ondemand and conservative governors to improve power efficiency and optimized the default mq-deadline parameters (Thanks to Xanmod)
• Updated the latest zstd & lz crypto algorithms
• Updated Google BBR v3 congestion control algorithm and enabled it by default to enhance network throughput.

Compatibility

Tested on Google Pixel 9a (tegu) running in Android 16.0.0 QPR1 (BP3A.250905.014, September 2025)

Build Variants

• Standard: A clean build with no integrated root solution.
• Root: Pre-patched with SukiSU-Ultra and SusFS. (Filename prefixed with Sukisu-Ultra)

Installation

It is recommended to flash the AnyKernel3 zip with the forked Kernel Flasher app from fatalcoder524.

Credits & Thanks

A huge thank you goes to the original developers and contributors. This port would not be possible without them.

• Sultan Alsawaf: For the original kernel and his incredible work for the community.
• WildKernels: For providing the build scripts and patches.
• osm0sis: For the AnyKernel3 flashing script.

Changelogs

11/09/2025

• Updated source codes for the September Security Patch from Google
• Rebranded to Optimistic