Most embedded shops release u-boot source, just not in a very usable state, eg. based on old versions, zip package instead of version control, not following any of the development practices or internal organization of the original project... Same thing with the kernel. Excited to see mainline support!
Source: working in embedded, trying to fix how we release exactly these things.
I think the first time I started pushing for real version control and semi-reproducible builds in embedded device development was in 1991, when I was working on medical diagnostic devices. I really can not believe that in 2015 there are still places the still don't adhere to simple practises like that...many places unfortunately.
I mean it's like wearing pants. It's fine if you do not want to wear pants at home but once you're at work and doing something in a professional context it seems like a reasonable minimum bar to expect everyone to live up to.
