If you’re in possession of the Google Nexus 7 (2012), and don’t want to wait for Google to push out the Android 5.0.2 to the tablet over-the-air, you can manually flash it to the latest version as Google has posted the factory image for the latest operating system.
The latest Android 5.0.2 comes with a build number LRX22G, which is different from the current Android 5.0.1. At the time of writing, the factory image was available for the first generation Nexus 7 tablet, and not any other device.
Manual Flashing: A Step-by-Step Guide
For those who are eager to get their hands on the latest update, manually flashing the factory image is a viable option. This process involves downloading the factory image from Google’s official website and using specific tools to install it on your device. Here’s a brief overview of the steps involved:
1. Download the Factory Image: First, you need to download the Android 5.0.2 factory image for the Nexus 7 (2012) from Google’s developer site.
2. Install ADB and Fastboot: These tools are essential for flashing the image. They can be installed as part of the Android SDK.
3. Unlock the Bootloader: This step is crucial and involves enabling developer options on your Nexus 7 and unlocking the bootloader using Fastboot commands.
4. Flash the Factory Image: Follow the instructions provided by Google to flash the factory image onto your device. This will wipe all data, so make sure to back up your important files.
What’s New in Android 5.0.2?
While Google has not provided a detailed changelog for Android 5.0.2, it is believed that this update primarily focuses on bug fixes and performance improvements specific to the Nexus 7 (2012). Users have reported various issues with previous versions, such as lagging and crashing apps, which this update aims to address.
One of the key improvements in Android 5.0.2 is better memory management. The Nexus 7 (2012) has limited RAM, and previous versions of Android Lollipop were known to consume a significant amount of memory, leading to sluggish performance. The new update optimizes memory usage, making the device more responsive.
Additionally, Android 5.0.2 includes fixes for issues related to the device’s battery life. Users have noted that the battery drains faster on Android 5.0.1, and the latest update aims to enhance battery performance by optimizing background processes and reducing unnecessary power consumption.
Future Updates and OTA Rollout
There’s no word on when Google will release the update over-the-air for the Nexus 7 or other Nexus devices, but we’ll make sure to let you know about it as soon as it rolls out. Over-the-air updates are generally more convenient for users as they do not require manual intervention. However, they are rolled out in phases, meaning it could take several days or even weeks before the update reaches all devices.
It’s unknown what the latest update has to offer, and if it will ever make it to other devices. There’s a possibility that it’s specifically designed to iron out bugs in the first generation Nexus 7, and may not make it to other Android devices out in the wild. Given the age of the Nexus 7 (2012), it is also possible that this could be one of the last updates the device receives, as Google typically supports devices for a limited period.
In conclusion, if you own a Nexus 7 (2012) and are experiencing issues with the current Android version, manually flashing Android 5.0.2 could be a worthwhile endeavor. The update promises to bring performance enhancements and bug fixes that could significantly improve your device’s usability. Keep an eye out for the OTA update if you prefer a more straightforward installation process.
Source: Droid-life
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