Install Android Updates Faster on Nexus Devices
Bypassing Official Android Update Timelines
The distribution of Android updates by Google is often a gradual process, extending even to their own Nexus devices. Users may experience significant delays, potentially spanning weeks, before an over-the-air update appears through the standard System updates interface.
However, it is possible to circumvent these waiting periods and gain access to the latest Android features sooner.
Experiences with Delayed Updates
The launch of Android L exemplified these delays. Several Nexus 4 phones did not receive the update for over three weeks following its initial release.
In some instances, the wait has been even more prolonged. A Nexus 7 from 2012 remained without access to the update for a full two months after its availability was announced.
Such extended delays are considered unreasonable by many users who expect more timely access to new software versions.
Alternatives to Over-the-Air Updates
Rather than relying solely on the official over-the-air rollout, alternative methods exist to expedite the update process.
These methods allow users to proactively seek and install updates, bypassing the phased distribution implemented by Google.
Ineffective Methods for Obtaining Updates
Let's begin by outlining approaches that will not expedite the update process. Google determines, on its own servers, which devices are eligible to receive updates. Consequently, repeatedly checking for updates via the System updates screen will not hasten delivery.
Your device will notify you when an update becomes available. The "Check for Update" button is only useful if Google has already authorized your device for an update, and it hasn't yet checked for it recently.
Previously Functional Techniques
A former method involved resetting the update process by clearing data from the Google Play Services app. This was intended to move a device to the front of the queue for immediate update access. However, this technique is now entirely ineffective.
Furthermore, attempting this method can introduce instability or other issues to your device. It is strongly advised to disregard any online instructions recommending this approach.
Utilizing Official Factory Images for Android Updates
Google makes official factory images available for its Nexus line of devices. The procedure for obtaining and installing a factory image has been previously detailed. This method necessitates unlocking the bootloader, acquiring the newest factory image from Google’s official site, and utilizing the adb command.
Preparation includes enabling developer mode on your device and verifying that the correct drivers are installed. A script is then executed to overwrite the existing Android installation with the new version. This process is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems.
Data Considerations During Flashing
Typically, this procedure results in a complete data wipe, returning the device to its original factory state. However, the flash script can be altered to facilitate an update that preserves your personal data.
While being the most complex approach, this remains the only officially sanctioned method for promptly upgrading to a new Android version. Google releases these factory images well in advance of their availability through over-the-air updates.
We have successfully employed this technique in the past, notably upgrading a 2013 Nexus 7 to Android L after a prolonged wait for the standard update. The process proved functional, though troubleshooting adb and driver configurations – particularly on Windows – presented challenges.
Experiences have indicated smoother implementations on Unix-based systems like Linux or macOS.
Option 2: Manually Applying the OTA Update File
Typically, when an Android update becomes available, Google notifies your device and initiates the download of an over-the-air (OTA) update file. Following the download, your device will restart and proceed with the installation of this OTA update.
The OTA update is designed to be smaller in size and more streamlined compared to the comprehensive factory image. OTA updates facilitate upgrades between versions, whereas the factory image represents a complete operating system image, useful for restoration or custom ROM installations.
It is possible to bypass the standard waiting period for the OTA update. Obtaining the correct OTA update file allows you to boot into the recovery environment and initiate the installation process manually.
This manual installation achieves the same upgrade results as waiting for the official release, and importantly, it preserves your existing data.
First, acquiring the necessary OTA update files is required. Unlike the complete factory images, Google does not officially publish these files directly. Instead, you will need to rely on lists compiled by third-party sources.
For instance, Android Police maintains a comprehensive list of Android 4.4.4 to 5.0 and 5.0 to 5.0.1 OTA update files, complete with links to their locations on Google’s servers. If you are seeking updates to a more recent Android version, a search will reveal current lists.
You will also require the adb command, which is available as part of Google’s Android SDK.
Entering Recovery Mode
Reboot your device and simultaneously hold the Volume Down button during the startup process. The "fastboot" menu and the word "Start" will appear on the screen.
Utilize the Volume Up button to navigate to "Recovery mode," then confirm your selection by pressing the Power button.
An Android icon with a red exclamation point will be displayed. Press and hold the Power button, then press the Volume Up button to access the system recovery menu.
Use the volume buttons to select "apply update from adb," and then confirm your choice with the Power button.
Sideloading the Update
Connect your Nexus device to your computer using a USB cable. Place both the adb command and the downloaded OTA update file within the same directory.
Open a Command Prompt window in that directory by holding Shift, right-clicking, and selecting "Open Command Prompt Here."
Execute the following command, replacing "OTA_UPDATE_FILENAME.zip" with the actual filename of your downloaded OTA update file. (Tab completion can assist with accurate typing!)
adb sideload OTA_UPDATE_FILENAME.zip
Press Enter, and adb will begin transferring the OTA update file to your device. A progress indicator will display the percentage completed, and upon reaching 100%, your device will initiate the installation process as if the update had been downloaded directly from Google.
If you have a custom recovery environment installed on your Nexus device, the procedure will differ. Typically, you can load the OTA update .zip file directly within your custom recovery application, which will then automatically reboot and install the update.
Considerations Regarding Update Rollouts
The gradual release of official Nexus updates from Google can sometimes be frustrating. While this approach helps prevent widespread issues caused by critical bugs, the process could be significantly faster.
Apple’s practice of releasing updates to all iPhone and iPad users simultaneously did encounter a setback with the release of iOS 8.0.1. This update caused cellular connectivity and Touch ID failures on new iPhones, necessitating a swift withdrawal. Google’s cautious approach aims to avoid similar scenarios.
Image Credit: Sylvain Naudin on Flickr