TOKYO: Samsung has already shown users how they can install the Android 5.0 port based on CM12 for the Exynos variant of the Galaxy S4, today officials are going to show users how they can install the CM12 port on the Galaxy S4 GT-I9505 Snapdragon 600 variant in this tutorial.
The Samsung Galaxy S4 unofficial CM12 port comes courtesy of XDA senior members Antares One and Alucard24. The ROM did have quite a few bugs when it was first posted last month, but with new builds, the developers have managed to eliminate most bugs. Currently, there are no device-related issues with the ROM, except a cracking sound coming from the speaker at high volume.
If users are fan of Xposed framework, unfortunately it will not work with this ROM, as Xposed framework isn’t compatible with Android 5.0 Lollipop yet. Apart from these issues, the ROM works absolutely flawlessly and they should be able to use it as a daily driver. The fact that Qualcomm releases sources for their Snapdragon chipsets makes developing for the Galaxy S4 Snapdragon variants a lot less intimidating than for the Exynos variant of the device.
Pre-Installation Requisites
- Since the ROM is based on AOSP, users will need to unlock the boot loader on their Galaxy S4 before they can install this ROM. If they decide to unlock their boot loader to install the ROM on their Galaxy S4, do keep in mind that doing so will void their warranty. So make sure that they understand the risk before proceeding with the bootloader unlocks process.
- Apart from an unlocked bootloader, users will also need to have root access and have a custom recovery installed on their Samsung Galaxy S4. They can choose from any of the popular custom recovery options available like CWM, TWRP, or PhilZ recovery. A custom recovery is essential, as the ROM will need to be flashed via recovery in order to be installed on their device.
Perform a backup of all their important data. Although the chances of data loss aren’t very high, they should be prepared for the worst, as sometimes they may end up losing all their data during a new ROM installation. Also remember to back up their contacts, SMS, and apps using a third party backup and restore app from the Google Play Store.
- Make sure that user Samsung Galaxy S4 battery has at least 50% charge remaining. If they attempt a ROM installation with low battery, their device will get bricked if the battery runs out before the installation process is finished. Although 50% is the minimum that officials recommend, ideally users should charge it to beyond 80% before installing the ROM.
