Popular custom firmware developers CyanogenMod has released the new Android v4.4.4 KitKat CM11 M10 to Asus' 2013 flagship tablet Google Nexus 7 2013 (4G-LTE) and Wi-Fi models.
The new CM11 M10 custom ROM is based on the AOSP (Android Open Source Project) v4.4.4 KitKat OS and is said to bring customisation options to boost device performance, new visual interface, shortcut for easy access to key apps and loads of personalisation options such as:
- General bug fixes
- Add smart cover support
- Add glove mode support
- Add bug reporter and crash log uploader
- ANT+ Support for various hardware
- Theme Engine: Themes support for additional UI elements
- Settings: Add soft reboot option
- Frameworks & Core Apps: CAF and other upstream updates
- Settings: Add scramble pin feature
- Frameworks: Long press recent apps to switch to last used app
- Multi-SIM updates
- Privacy Guard: Control NFC permissions
- Performance tweaks and many more improvements to enhance user experience
Prerequisites (things to remember before installing Custom ROM)
- Though installing custom ROM improves the device's performance and UI experiences, it makes the company warranty void and they will no longer be liable to provide updates in future [users can restore warranty by flashing the device with stock-ROM].
- Make sure the device is rooted before going forward for custom ROM installation. [Also read: Root Google Nexus 7 (2013 Edition) with Android 4.4.3 KitKat KTU84L]
- This new CyanogenMod Android 4.4.4 KitKat firmware has to be installed on the Google Nexus 7 2013 (4G-LTE) and Wi-Fi models only; if tried on other devices, it might get bricked [To check your device model: Go to Settings >> About phone >> model number]
- Installation of custom ROM requires clearing of memory in the smartphone, so make sure to back all the data by installing Clockwork Mod (CWM) Recovery/ TWRP in the smartphone.
- Users make sure they have installed USB drivers on the PC, or else your tablets - Google Nexus 7 2013 4G and Wi-Fi models will not be recognised by the computer.
- Make sure your device has more than 80% battery, or else there is chance of smartphone getting temporarily bricked if the installation process is interrupted mid-way.
[Disclaimer: This procedure is very technical and should be performed by a person with sound knowledge of rooting (or manual software installation) Android devices. If the step-by-step installation process is not followed properly, there are chances of the smartphone getting bricked or being permanently irreparable. International Business Times, India Edition cannot be held responsible for any damage or claims from readers if the procedure does not yield the required results or if the smartphone is bricked. Hence, users are advised to proceed with caution.]
Step-by-step installation procedure of CyanogenMod Android 4.4.4 KitKat CM11 M10 custom ROM for the Asus-Google Nexus 7 2013 4G-LTE:
Step 1: Download CyanogenMod Android 4.4.4 KitKat CM11 M10 custom ROM (HERE, for 4G-LTE model and HERE, for Wi-Fi model) and Google Apps (HERE) in to the PC.
Step 2: Connect Google Nexus 7 2013 model to PC via USB cord.
[Note: Before plugging the tablet to the computer, be sure you have installed USB driver software, if not, click HERE to download the firmware]
Step 3: Place Android v4.4.4 KitKat Custom ROM zip file and into the device's SD card memory. [Note: Users are advised to paste the .zip files in SD card root, not in any other folder.]
[Note: Before users begin installing the custom software, make sure the device is already rooted and must have installed ClockworkMod Recovery.]
Step 4: Now turn off the device and disconnect from the PC.
Step 5: Then perform the regular 'Bootloader Mode' sortie by press holding 'Volume (up)', 'Volume (down)' and 'Power' buttons.
Step 6: After entering the 'Bootloader mode', go to ClockworkMod Recovery mode, then clear the device memory, by choosing 'wipe data/factory reset' [Note: use Volume keys to navigate and power button to select options, while operating under Recovery Mode]
Step 7: Now, clear the cache memory by selecting 'wipe cache partition'
Step 8: Then to go back to ClockworkMod recovery, and select 'advanced' and tap 'wipe dalvik cache' [Note: This step is optional, but many recommend this procedure so that user will not face boot loops or any other errors in the middle of custom ROM installation]
Step 9: Come back to main recovery screen and then tap 'install zip from SD card'
Step 10: Then tap 'choose zip from sdcard' and go to Android 4.4.4 ROM .zip file in SD card and enter the installation process. [Note: use Volume keys to navigate and power button to select options]
Step 11: Once done with the installation process, navigate to '+++++Go Back+++++' and re-start the device by opting 'reboot system now' seen in the recovery menu.
Now, your device (Google Nexus 7 2013 models - 4G and Wi-Fi ) will take a few minutes to complete the booting process.
Head to Settings >> select About device to confirm the installation of CyanogenMod Android 4.4.4 KitKat CM11 M10 custom firmware.
[Credits: CyanogenMod.org and Team Android]
