How to change the firmware version on android. How to update the Android firmware version

21.10.2019

Before version 5.0, think carefully. There may be two reasons why the update did not “arrive” automatically for you. Either this is an error (during distribution, upon receipt, etc.), or the manufacturer did not plan to update the software for your device. And if in the first case the defect is easy to fix, then the second option makes you think. Of course, the point here is not that the manufacturer does not care about your device or he forgot about you. Everything is much more prosaic.

Each manufacturer, be it Samsung, Sony, HTC, LG or any other, remembers every device very well. But he also knows everything in detail. specifications each model. Much better than us! And no matter how many OS developers talk about increasing the performance of gadgets after updating them, numerous tests and user reviews indicate either a meager or zero "increase" in the speed of work. But most often, users report a deterioration in the operation of the device after the update. The explanation for this is simple: Android 5.0 Lollipop is brighter and more functional than its older brother, and this requires more resources to work. And all manufacturers also know about this, and therefore do not send an update to your device.

Therefore, let's start with advice: if it seems to you that your device on Android 4.4 Kitkat is working at the limit of its technical capabilities, then most likely it does not seem to you! Of course, you can experiment with deleting photos, videos, games and applications, installing accelerator programs, checking for viruses, and more. But the risk of getting a "brick" after a forced update still remains!

It is worth recalling that before starting the installation, you need to take care of some things. Surely you are well aware of them, but, as they say, "Repetition is the mother of learning!"

First, you need to make a backup. After installing the update, your device will have nothing but the operating system and programs installed by default. Therefore, SMS, applications, games and everything that you downloaded will have to be done on your own. Fortunately, there are a lot of special programs that will help you do this.

Secondly, if you decide to install custom firmware, of which there are an incredible amount now, you will have to take care of Root rights. Just like with Backup, you will need special software.

Thirdly, before you start manipulating the system, make sure that the battery is fully charged and that you have a USB cable (preferably original) at hand.

Before proceeding directly to the Android update process, it must be said that there are not so many options to do this, only two: “over the air” (that is, via the Internet) and via a computer.

Option number 1. "By air"

As mentioned above, there can be two situations here. Either the update came automatically, or it needs to be checked and installed forcibly.

If the update came automatically, then there are no problems at all. You will see a notification that a new version of Android 5.0 Lollipop is available. Typically, the same notification will suggest "Update Now" or "Postpone Update". You know what to choose!

If your Android has not received an update automatically, you can check for it manually. To do this, open the "Settings" menu, go to the "About device" submenu, then to the "Updates" section. In the window that opens, tap on the "Check for updates" button. If the update is "found" - install.

It happens that this method does not work. Then you can go the other way. To do this, you must first erase the data from the Google Services Framework application. And you can find this application at the address "Settings" - "Applications". After the data is erased, restart your phone and check again for updates.

Before moving on to the next OS update method, I would like to note that the options described above will install official firmware on your device. Therefore, you do not need to think about and some other nuances. But it's better to do Backup!

Option number 2. Through a computer

This method will be of interest to those who want to install custom firmware, as well as for all owners to whom Android 5.0 Lollipop was not originally "intended".

I would like to note right away that for each specific device, be it a smartphone or a tablet, the process of installing the OS through a computer is individual. Before you start installing the update, study the algorithm in detail in theory. Read forums, reviews, ask questions. The assembly of the firmware is individual for each device separately. Install only the one that is right for you.

In essence, the process of updating via a PC comes down to downloading the firmware to a computer and using a certain bootloader program to install it on the device. For many gadgets on the web there are detailed instructions on installation, and even video materials with visual reviews. Especially for popular models of the tablet-smartphone world.

The update method will depend on the specific device

We will focus on the main actions that will have to be performed, based on the fact that you have already downloaded the firmware, root-, bootloader- and backup programs, unpacked everything, installed it and are ready to start.

Switch the device to firmware mode (see the instructions for your device).
Connect to computer.
Run the bootloader, load the firmware into it.
, start the installation process and wait a bit.
After completion, the device will reboot and turn on with the new version of Android.

This is the structure of the process. In fact, for devices from some manufacturers, this process can be much more tricky. But you can definitely figure it out!

Conclusion

In conclusion, I would like to say thanks to those programmers who, despite all the restrictions of manufacturers, bypass the prohibitions and adapt the firmware for our phones and tablets. Also, the people who test these updates, find bugs and test again deserve words of gratitude. After all, everyone wants to enjoy new features and a new design, and not just those who bought their gadget today!

Conclusion (alternative)

In the end, after all of the above, I want to philosophize a little. Because a number of questions hang in the air:

Why, by default, device manufacturers "send" updates only to flagship devices?
Why do they make the decision to upgrade for us?
Why does everyone who "doesn't have to" get this update have to go to great lengths to also get an operating system that meets modern standards?

And the answer is very simple! It's all about sales marketing plans! After all, if you want the latest one, and the manufacturer does not send an official update, arguing that the device simply cannot cope with it, then there is only one way out - buy a new gadget! This is exactly what manufacturers are counting on.

So it turns out that under the guise of feigned concern for their customers, in reality, manufacturers are pursuing an absolutely specific and simple goal - to make money!

Software updates and the operating system itself are known to be a guarantee of security and stable operation. Yes, if you do not update, your device will also work, but new features may be missing or vulnerabilities may appear. To prevent this from happening, we will tell you how to update Android in different ways.

When a novelty smartphone first appears on sale, it software is often quite "raw". A good manufacturer tries to fix bugs and release updates as soon as possible. It turns out that a user who does not install a patch will still use a buggy device.

Moreover, sometimes gaps in the operating system are discovered that allow attackers to steal your personal data and force your smartphone to work in networks for DDoS attacks. It is in order to protect the user and make the smartphone fast, reliable, and also more functional that firmware updates are needed.

Preparing for the upgrade

Before proceeding with the procedure for installing new versions of the OS, you need to make sure that your Internet connection is stable and fast enough. The update algorithm is designed in such a way that an under-downloaded file will not be installed. However, if you're using a slow network, packages that are often gigabytes in size can take days to download.

Also, before you start, just in case, we advise you to create a backup copy of all available data. Usually, the user's personal files are not lost, but it's still worth it to play it safe. Just connect your smartphone to your computer or laptop and copy all videos, photos and music there.

In what cases auto-update may not work

There are 8 generations of the Android operating system. In addition, each of the manufacturers modifies the OS for themselves. But one way or another, there are a number of established reasons due to which new updates may not be installed:

the update is simply disabled in the phone settings;
the manufacturer has stopped supporting the model and updates for it are no longer available;
there is no connection to the network;
Not enough free space on the drive.

From all this, you can understand what to do if Android is not updated. Next, we move on to the instructions for updating your device.

How to change the version (firmware) of Android

Since there are many versions of the Android OS, we will describe the process for each of them. Also, work with the OS may vary, for example, depending on the manufacturer of the device. AT Xiaomi Redmi Note 4x, HTC One M7 or Meizu may all look very different. We will not consider the first and second editions of the green robot, since if such devices still exist, then updates for them have not been released for a long time. An example of updating using third-party programs will also be given.

Standard Over the Air Update Procedure

So, let's get started and start with the most old version OS from Google and let's go incrementally.

Android 4.x

In order to change the configuration of the OS, you must first get into its settings. In the fourth edition of Android, this is done like this:

On the home screen, tap on the icon with the image of several dots arranged in a row.

Click the settings gear, which is located in the main menu of the device.

Scroll to the bottom of the list and select the item marked in the figure.

We need the "System Update" item.

Here we see that there are no new versions of the OS, but to be sure, we still press the marked button.

In the case of Android 4.x, if there were updates, the system would download them, then reboot and install in PreOS mode. The same is true for other versions of the OS.

Android 5.x

In the fifth edition of the operating system, we do this:

We move the notification line or, as it is also called, the “curtain” down and tap on the settings icon.

We twist the contents of the window to the very bottom and select the item "About tablet" or "About phone".

Just like in the fourth edition, click on the item circled in the screenshot.

As you can see, there are no updates, but you can check them manually.

Android 6.x

We pass to the conditional equator of the development of operating systems from Google. This is the sixth version named Marshmallow. Consider how to check and, if necessary, apply updates here:

On the desktop or, as it is also called, the home screen, press the menu button.

Tap on the settings gear.

Go to the point marked in the screenshot below. You can find it at the very bottom of the settings.

Click on "System Update".

As a result, we see that there are no updates. To be sure, click on the circled button to recheck for them.

Android 7.x

Talk about the newest android versions We will not be the G8, because it is installed so far only on some smartphones. But let's talk about its predecessor right now:

We lower the "curtain" and go to the settings.

Scroll down the list and tap on the last list.

Here, on the contrary, we choose the very first item.

Then click "Check for Updates".

As in other cases, there were no updates. So we have the latest version of the operating system and you don’t have to worry about its security.

ROM Manager

In order to install the program, you need to open the Play Market.

Here we prescribe the name of the program we need and select it from the generated list.

Click the button that will start the installation of the application.

We allow the utility access to the necessary resources.

We are waiting until all the files necessary for the program to work are downloaded and installed.

You can launch the application directly from the store.

Also, a program shortcut will appear on the Android desktop.

Here is the ROM Manager software interface. Here we need to tell you something. The fact is that this program has extensive functionality, which in its entirety you will not need. You only need the item "Check for update". Then just follow the prompts of the program.

Recovery

The last option we will look at is working with custom Recovery using unofficial firmware. In order to install the firmware through it, you must first download it in .zip format. It will be possible to do this on one of the forums that the Internet is full of.

In order to get into recovery, turn off your smartphone. Then press and hold the power button and the volume up button at the same time. When the logo appears, release them. In the custom Recovery menu, select the installation item.

Since there are several such recovery, the names of the points and their location may change.

Next, open the folder in which we previously placed the archive with the firmware.

And choose the firmware itself.

Attention! If you flash a file that is not for your device, it can turn into a “brick”, which even a service center cannot restore.

To apply the update, drag the slider to the right.

You can also update your phone through a special package from the manufacturer. For example, in the case of Samsung, this is a proprietary KIES utility. You need to work with it through a computer.

Results and comments

This concludes our article and we can only say that if you have comments, you can leave them a little lower in the form intended for this.

Video instruction

For greater clarity and completeness of the picture, in addition, you can watch a video on this topic.

Android 4.4.2 is an operating system developed for mobile devices by Google. This version is called KitKat, and it is, perhaps, best version firmware, if we consider all releases of Android 4. The operating system has become very widespread and is now used on many devices, delighting its users. If you wanted to download firmware for Android in order to update your phone or tablet with a newer version, then this page is for you!

The new update has greatly reduced system requirements OS, thereby increasing the number of smartphones that can now fully support it. Therefore, today almost every user has access to Android 4.4.2 firmware for free download in Russian, which can be downloaded at Cyclone Soft! If you have been unable to update your phone for a long time or did not know how to flash your tablet, then the installer package available for download via torrent will help you a lot. In other words, almost every device today supports Android 4.4.2, so you have a great opportunity to quickly update the operating system.

Among other things, the OS has been perfectly optimized, which can only mean that devices using it are getting a good boost in power and performance. Of course, iron plays here leading role, however, often perfectly tuned software performs an equally important task.

Android 4.4.2 KitKat features and innovations

Interface options and new features

There is no doubt that the most visible change in this operating system is the user interface. It has become even more comfortable and informative, allows you to conveniently and easily manage desktops and separate installed applications by type and category. it great option how to flash Android, because version 4.4.2 was considered much more successful than previous releases.

Choose the color palette you like, use the convenient notification bar and translucent buttons below, which perfectly updated the look of the operating system. Firmware Android 4.4.2 download free in Russian which you can at the end of the page also received updated management of many elements of the system. So, for example, the user can hide system elements, unnecessary on-screen buttons and the notification panel itself.

Sensor support

The new version of Android has interesting updates in terms of processing specialized sensors. The fact is that now KitKat can receive all the information from them in batches and group the data at certain intervals. This solution helped not only to reduce the load on the processor of the device, but also to reduce the power consumption that depends on its operation. New program for firmware has many new features that allow you to use your smartphone with detection sensors, a pedometer and many others.

Also, the user will have access to built-in support for infrared ports and a module for working with several Bluetooth profiles at once. KitKat 4.4.2 will help you print absolutely any document wirelessly.

Updated photo editor

Android 4.4 received a brand new image editor that you can activate while in the gallery. The utility will do a great job of adding filters and frames, cropping photos and many other tasks. It can even be argued that the functionality is in no way inferior to the Instagram application, in which you can process your pictures. Crop frames, straighten the image, rotate it to the desired angle and create a mirror copy - all this is available to you!

How to flash Android to version 4.4 KitKat

Downloading, installing and further updating the operating system will not cause you any difficulties, regardless of whether you decide to flash your smartphone or tablet. Download Android 4.4.2 KitKat and follow the instructions from the archive you downloaded, which will answer all your questions about how to flash an Android phone or update the tablet OS.

Be sure to share the page with your friends who do not yet have Android 4.4.2 KitKat so that they can also upgrade to this great version by flashing their device. Write comments and don't forget to rate the software! Thank you for your attention!

I am often asked whether it is possible or worth updating the android version to 6.0, 5.0, 5.1, 4.4 and so on on a smartphone / tablet.

Someone wants to update android from 5.1 to 6.0, someone from 4.4 to 6.0, someone from 6.0 to 7.0, someone from 4.2 to 4.4, someone from 4.1 to 4.4, someone from 2.3 to 4.0 , and someone immediately up to 7.1 1.

My answer is always unequivocal: it is worth updating, but not always possible. Right now, without hesitation, I would update the version on my Samsung, on which 6.0.1 is installed to android 7, but it’s impossible to do such an operation.

Having the latest version of android in your phone or tablet will not only allow you to enjoy fresh appearance user interface, the latest versions of applications, or take advantage of new system features.

Undoubtedly, the main reason you should ensure that your devices are always up to date is their security.

Interestingly, studies show that only 20 percent of users using tablets and smartphones running Android have a current version.

Undoubtedly, there are two reasons for this. The first one is that most manufacturers are slowly moving forward with latest systems, and often refuses to support older phones.

The second reason is more trivial - the users themselves are to blame. Often they do not even realize that their phone or tablet equipped with Android software can work much more efficiently.

Is it always possible to update the android system to the latest version

Is it possible to update, for example, android software 2 to 4. It turns out not. Availability new version does not mean that it is available for your device sony, samsung, meizu and so on.

Why? Because the new version that Google has developed will not work for you. You need the manufacturer of the smartphone or tablet to make adjustments to the firmware.

Only the manufacturer usually does not want to do this. He released a batch of devices for sale and forgot about them - you can't do it on your own.

These are the ugly things. It’s worth updating the android system, but it’s not always possible - you need firmware specifically for your phone, be it android 4.1, 5.0, 6.0, 4.2, 4.4, 2.3, 4.0, 4.1 1 and so on.

If an update is available for your device, you will be notified. When you receive it, open it and click on the update option and then follow the instructions on the screen.

Please note - if you receive a shortage notification free space, release it before updating.

During the update, connect the device to a power source and make sure that the Internet connection is stable.

During the update, you can't use your smartphone or tablet, but luckily it won't take long.

How to update android software

The fastest and easiest way to update an android is to use the update that comes with your phone or tablet's operating system.

But before you take on the installation of a new version of the operating system, it is worth remembering a few important things.

Connect to a Wi-Fi network, since the size is not small and you can easily run out of data limit;
charge the battery at least 50 percent, although full is better;
take care of the free space in the phone (at least 1 GB);
do not remove the batteries during the update;
do not use a device that is being updated.

Update process.

Step 1: Open "Settings".
Step 2: Scroll down to the bottom of the list and select About Phone/Tablet.
Step 3. Click on the update or system update item (depending on the version and translation, the names may differ slightly).
Step 4. Wait patiently while the new software version is installed.

During this time, your smartphone or tablet will connect to the server to check for latest version android operating system.

If it is found, the device will download and install it if you give your consent. If you do not have access to wireless network, you can always update the system using a computer with Internet access and appropriate software.

Most manufacturers have prepared special applications that can not only update the device, but also backup data. Good luck.

Many experienced Android owners often force or deliberately update the firmware to fix bugs or get new features. How to update the firmware on Android, you will learn from this article.

Why update firmware on Android

Here is a partial list of reasons:

Get new and/or previously unavailable features/features.
Fix the identified errors and problems in the firmware.
Close vulnerabilities and security holes.
Improve device performance or speed up an outdated device.
Download some games and applications that do not work on outdated versions of the system.

Types, differences and features of updates

Standard Firmware

There are 2 types of updates:

Intermediate.
Complete.

The interim update contains fixes and improvements within the current OS version. For example, if Android is 5.0, then updates are applicable only to this version. Usually builds of this type contain only fixes and rarely seen innovations. Also, interim updates contain security fixes, where possible holes for hacking the device are closed.

The full version includes more changes than the intermediate version. The package contains all the necessary files for a clean install. Suitable for restoring a device after an unsuccessful firmware or for updating to a new version of Android, for example from 7.1 to 8.0.

MIUI firmware

The system is presented mainly on Xiaomi devices. Also, firmware is often installed on models from other manufacturers in the form of custom modifications. As is the case with most other standard firmware, the system is also available as an intermediate and full package.

At the same time, MIUI uses a distinctive approach in the development and distribution of firmware, in comparison with other manufacturers. Two types of firmware are available:

Chinese. The firmware is intended for users / developers / testers from China, since it contains only English and Chinese localization. Release order: Alpha build - Beta, for developers - Stable version.

Global. The system is designed for users from other countries, as it contains an extended language pack. Release Order: Beta, Developer Stable.

Distinctive features of the firmware

Alpha version. The firmware contains the latest innovations and is updated more often. The system is only available to some Chinese testers/developers.

Beta version. Test assembly, where previously found errors were fixed. The firmware is available to everyone, and a new build is released weekly on Friday, except for major Chinese holidays.

stable version. Usually comes out every 3-6 months, where most of the bugs are fixed. The system is better debugged compared to weekly builds and more suitable for continuous use.

Third party firmware

The network also has many different firmware developed by companies, experienced developers or a group of enthusiasts. Builds are also classified into alpha, bata and final. Last Nai the best option, containing fewer errors. The quality of implementation and support of the system is influenced by the experience and interest of developers.

Firmware update methods

The owner of Android has 4 ways to update the firmware:

Built-in FOTA option.
Through factory recovery.
With the help of a computer.
Using third party recovery.

Firmware update via FOTA

The abbreviation FOTA (OTA), translated from English Firmware Over The Air - firmware over the air. The standard method for obtaining and updating firmware by most Android devices.

The principle of operation is to download the firmware from the manufacturer's server and then install it. The process is automated and does not require the participation of the owner. It is enough to check for updates, download the file if available and allow the installation. To do this, open the settings section, select the "updates" item and click on the check for updates button.

For Xiaomi devices with MIUI, in addition to OTA, a second update method is also available. If you have firmware, just download the file to your phone, and then go through the standard update menu, where you select and install the firmware.

The advantages of the method in full automation. The owner does not need to delve into the firmware installation process and should not worry about losing the warranty.

The disadvantage is the lack of long-term support from most manufacturers. Some models do not receive the update at all. Often, in fact, there is an update, but it is not possible to get the file from the server.

Firmware update via factory recovery

Android devices are equipped with recovery mode. The section is used primarily for resetting settings when the system does not boot, as well as for quickly clearing user data. At the same time, the factory recovery mode allows you to install firmware updates, usually only intermediate type. And for Xiaomi smartphones, this method one of the main ones, to install a new firmware version.

The method is relevant when there is an update for the phone, but it is not downloaded via FOTA. Then it is enough to download the update file called “update” into memory, it will boot into recovery mode, where you select the file and start the update process.

The disadvantages include some difficulties with finding the update file. More action is required. Also, only official firmware can be installed, modifications cannot be installed. And because a device's support cycle rarely exceeds more than a year, 1.5-2 years for flagships, updating the firmware will not always work.

Firmware update using a computer

A computer is required to install the full firmware package or some sections. More often this method is used for official updates. And for some models, firmware of semi-custom assemblies is available - partial modifications assembled on the factory firmware.

When using this method, you will need a laptop. More drivers for the device to be flashed, a program for installing the system and the firmware file itself. The process is not complicated either. It is enough to connect the device, run the program, where you specify the path to the file location and confirm the action. The rest will pass without user intervention.

The most crucial moment in the correct choice of firmware. Usually defense mechanisms prevent the installation of an incorrect assembly, but sometimes there are exceptions, and the device has to be restored.

The advantages include the ability to install a full firmware package, which is important when the update is not available via OTA. Also flash an “improved” stock, where the author can remove unnecessary programs and services, and instead put the best version of applications.

The disadvantage is the same - the update rests on the presence of firmware released by the manufacturer. You also need a computer, a program, drivers and a synchronization cable.

Firmware update using modified recovery

The previous three methods described updating a standard system, where the installation rested on the presence of an intermediate or full firmware package. If the manufacturer has stopped support, the system will not be updated. For such a case, or when there is a desire to try an alternative firmware, for example, MIUI instead of the standard Android, custom, modified, firmware are available.

The development and support of such systems is carried out by enthusiasts or experienced programmers. The level of debugging of firmware cannot be compared with major electronics manufacturers. But it allows you to install the latest version of the OS on an old device and take advantage of new features.

You will first need to install a modified recovery versions, which requires unlocking the bootloader. The unlocking method for each model is different - hacking through a vulnerability, paid remote unlocking or free unlocking through the manufacturer.

The benefits are in the installation of new versions of the system, which is relevant when the manufacturer has stopped supporting the device. Also, the installation of "kernels" and other modifications, creating a backup copy of the system and restoring the system at any time.

Among the shortcomings is the need for a third-party recovery and an unlocked bootloader. Just some time and knowledge on the part of the owner.