Xiaomi, has got a really good reputation among fans, primary reason being is that it offers latest Android software to its ageing phones. Only qualm is that Xiaomi takes its own sweet time to optimize the source code received from Google, before releasing to its devices.
So far, Xiaomi has only released Android Nougat beta version to the Redmi Note 4 (in India) and commenced soak testing on flagship Mi 5 and is expected to extend it to Mi Mix. Going by the release pattern, Mi 4 and Mi3w series phone owners will have to wait really long, at least two if not three months to get the OS update.
Also read: Android 7.0 Nougat released: 16 key upgrades of Google's new mobile OS update over Marshmallow
If patience is not your strongest suit, you can try installing LineageOS custom ROM, built by the former members of CyanogenMod community.
Besides offering Nougat goodies, LineageOS offers exclusive wallpapers, new touchscreen gestures interface for devices that support it with customisable actions, and several other value-added features to enhance user experience.
Prerequisites (things to remember before installing Custom ROM):
- This new LineageOS [official] CM 14.1 Android 7.1 Nougat firmware has to be installed on the Xiaomi Mi 4, Mi 3w aka cancro model only; if tried on other devices, it might get bricked [To check your device model: Go to Settings >> About phone >> model number]
- In LineageOS, Root file will not be integrated like CyanogenMod, instead it will made as separate file as Google Apps. This means users have to download and install Root firmware similar to Google Apps (GApps).
- LineageOS users are advised wipe the current ROM in the device when switching to LineageOS, and reinstall their GApps.
- Make sure the device is rooted before going forward for custom ROM installation
- Installation of custom ROM requires clearing of memory in the smartphone, so make sure to back all the data by installing TWRP in the smartphone.
- Make sure to install USB drivers on the PC, or else your smartphone (Xiaomi Mi 4, Mi 3w) will not be recognized by the computer.
- Make sure the device has more than 80 percent battery, or else there is a chance for smartphone getting temporarily bricked if the installation process is interrupted mid-way.
- If you face force close, go to Settings >> Setupwizard >> Give permission
- Though installing custom ROM improve 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].
[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. IBTimes India 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.]
Tutorial: Step-by-step installation guide of LineageOS [official] 14.1 Android Nougat custom ROM for Xiaomi Mi4, Mi 3w via TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project)-
Step 1: Download LineageOS [official] 14.1 Android Nougat custom ROM and Google Apps in to your PC.
[Scroll to find the downloadable files]
Step 2: Connect Xiaomi Mi 4, Mi 3w to the computer
Step 3: Place the Android Nougat ROM into the phone's storage memory.
[Note: Users are advised to paste the .zip file in the storage root folder, not in any other folder.]
Step 4: Turn off device and disconnect it from PC
Step 5: Perform Recovery mode sorties by long pressing Volume (Down) + Power buttons
Step 6: Once entering the TWRP settings menu, clear phone's memory (full) by selecting 'Wipe' option. Once done, select – 'Swipe to Factory Reset' perform factory reset
Step 7: Return to TWRP settings and tap 'Install' by the selecting .Zip file in the phone's memory downloaded from PC
Step 8: Come back to TWRP menu setting to approve the installation by tapping 'Swipe to Confirm Flash'
Step 9: Flashing of the custom ROM begins and after few minutes, a message 'Successful' appears on the screen, thus completing installation.
Step 10: If faced with boot loop problem, navigate back to TWRP settings, and select 'Wipe cache/dalvik'. This procedure will help resolve any issue with regard to custom ROM installation
Downloadable files:
LineageOS [official] 14.1 Android Nougat custom ROM for Xiaomi Mi4, Mi 3w: HERE
Google Apps: HERE
USB Driver: HERE
[Credits: LineageOS.org]
