Samsung Galaxy S2
Samsung Galaxy S2Reuters

Prolific custom mobile software developers, CyanogenMod team has released the new Android v4.4.4 KitKat CM11 M12 milestone series custom ROM to Samsung's 2011 flagship smartphone Galaxy S2 (GT-I9100).

The new CM11 M12 series custom ROM is just another monthly update. Besides bringing new customisation options and features, it also fixes a critical bug – 'POODLE'-- vulnerability found in SSL (Secure Socket Layer) v3 protocol, which is used by most Internet browsers incorporated in Android devices.

This vulnerability gave leeway for network attackers to cause connection failures and trigger the use of SSL 3.0. They exploit this issue to steal sensitive data. [More information, HERE]

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 with custom ROM installation
  • This new CyanogenMod CM11 M12 Android 4.4.4 KitKat firmware has to be installed on the Samsung Galaxy S2 (GT-I9100) model 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.
  • Make sure to install USB drivers on the PC, or else your smartphone (Samsung Galaxy S2 I9100) 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 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 Guide of CyanogenMod Android v4.4.4 KitKat CM11 M12 Custom ROM for Samsung Galaxy S2 GT- I9100:

Step 1: Download CyanogenMod Android v4.4.4 KitKat CM11 M12 Custom ROM (HERE) and Google Apps (HERE) in to your PC.

Step 2: Connect Samsung Galaxy S2 to PC via USB cord.

[Note: Before plugging the phone to the computer, be sure that you have installed USB driver software, if not, click HERE to download the firmware]

Step 3: Then, place Android 4.4.4 KitKat zip file and Google Apps .zip file into the phone's SD card memory. [Note: Users are advised to paste the .zip file in SD card root, not in any other folder.]

[Note: Before installing the custom software, be sure that the device must have been rooted and has installed ClockworkMod Recovery tool.]

Step 4: Now, turn off the device and disconnect from the PC.

Step 5: Then perform the regular Recovery Mode sortie by press holding 'Volume (up)', 'Home' and 'Power' buttons.

Step 6: After entering the RECOVERY mode, clear the phone memory, by choosing 'wipe data/factory reset' option.

[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: 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: Tap 'choose zip from sdcard' and go to Android 4.4.4 ROM .zip file in SD card and enter the installation process. Repaeat the same procedure to install Google Apps [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 (Samsung Galaxy S2 I9100) will take at a few minutes to complete the booting process.

Head to Settings >> select About phone to confirm the installation of CyanogenMod Android 4.4.4 KitKat CM11 M12 custom ROM.

[Credits: CyanogenMod.org]