Nexus 7 owners might be interested to learn that XDA Developer Tasssadar has created a new application called MultiROM for Google’s Nexus 7 tablet that will enable you to load multiple operating systems on to it.
MultiROM is a multi-boot solution for the Google Nexus 7 tablet, designed to boot an Android ROM while keeping the one in internal memory intact or boot Ubuntu without having to format the entire device. This innovative application opens up a world of possibilities for users who want to experiment with different operating systems without compromising their primary setup.
Features and Benefits of MultiROM
XDA Developer Tasssadar explains that for now, ROM can only be in the internal memory of the Nexus 7 device, but booting from USB is planned in the future. This means that while the current version of MultiROM is somewhat limited in terms of storage flexibility, future updates could potentially allow users to boot operating systems directly from a USB drive, significantly expanding the device’s capabilities.
One of the key advantages of MultiROM is its ability to preserve the existing Android ROM on the device. This is particularly beneficial for users who rely on their Nexus 7 for daily tasks but want to explore other operating systems like Ubuntu. By using MultiROM, they can switch between different OS environments without the need to wipe their device clean each time.
Storage Considerations and Installation
You might struggle if you only have the 8GB version of the Nexus 7, but owners of the 16 or 32 GB versions will have plenty of space for extra OS’s. The limited storage on the 8GB model can quickly become a bottleneck, especially when dealing with multiple operating systems that each require a significant amount of space. However, the 16GB and 32GB models provide a more comfortable environment for experimenting with different ROMs.
For full details on the new MultiROM app and how to install it, jump over to the XDA Developers website. The installation process involves several steps, including unlocking the bootloader, installing a custom recovery, and then flashing the MultiROM zip file. Detailed instructions and support from the XDA community can help guide users through this process.
In addition to the primary MultiROM application, users may also need to install additional modules or patches to ensure compatibility with specific operating systems. For example, running Ubuntu on the Nexus 7 might require additional kernel modifications or specific drivers to ensure smooth operation.
Future Prospects and Community Support
The development of MultiROM is a testament to the vibrant and innovative community at XDA Developers. As more users adopt MultiROM and provide feedback, we can expect to see further enhancements and new features added to the application. The planned support for booting from USB is just one example of how the project is likely to evolve.
Moreover, the ability to run multiple operating systems on a single device can have broader implications beyond personal use. For instance, developers can use MultiROM to test their applications across different platforms without needing multiple devices. Educational institutions might leverage this capability to teach students about various operating systems and their unique features.
In conclusion, MultiROM offers Nexus 7 owners an exciting opportunity to explore and experiment with multiple operating systems on a single device. While there are some limitations, particularly regarding storage, the potential for future updates and the strong support from the XDA community make it a valuable tool for tech enthusiasts and developers alike.
Source: Liliputing
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