CyanogenMod 13 Release 1 based on Marshmallow is now available

Though it appears like custom firmwares have lost a little of their hype lately, this hasn't stopped the developer community from tinkering with ROMs. CyanogenMod is still very much active as seen with their recent launch of the initial release based on Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow, the CyanogenMod 13.0 Release 1.Just for the sake of clarification, snapshot are release versions that are considered stable enough to be made available for the general public to run, whilst the nightly releases are recommended exclusively to enthusiasts and experts. Although the first nightlies were spotted way back in November, right now is when a snapshot, or rather, a Release is finally released.CyanogenMod 13.0 Release 1 will bring forth all the core features of the Marshmallow OS, including Doze mode, Google Now on Tap and configurable app permissions controls. On top of this, expect a few CyanogenMod specific features, both old and new. With this in mind, a couple of features you may already know of from the older versions of CM are missing, and a couple of changes have been made in relation to how the update can be installed.If you are considering installing this update, then check out the instructions in this blog post before you proceed. For those already running on a CyanogenMod 13.0 nightly, you will have to wipe out your device before you can flash the Release 1. Additionally, users of the Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P and the Nexus 9 will be required to go through an additional process of flashing the vendor image, because of the way code is partitioned by Google in their latest version of Android.The new major features cited in the official change log include a new screen to display the use of memory for a set amount of time, fingerprint scanner to enhance protection of user's personal data, the Qualcomm-based messenger app has been replaced an equivalent that is based on AOSP. As per their January announcement, the package got rid of the Whisperpush-secured messaging app.Also included in CM 13.0 Release 1 is March's security updates, and according to Abhisek Devkota the community's manager, these Releases should be expected on a monthly basis.The links for various devices are available for download from the CyanogenMod official download page.