How to Upgrade Your Android Phone from Android 5 to 7

Upgrading your Android phone from Android 5 to Android 7 might seem like a complex task, but with the right tools and steps, it can be done quite smoothly. This article will guide you through the process of flashing your phone to a newer version, including important notes, risks, and detailed steps.

Important Notes

Before you start, it’s crucial to understand and follow some essential guidelines to avoid data loss and ensure a smooth upgrade process.

BACKUP YOUR DATA: Flashing your phone will erase all data on your device. Make sure to back up important files to an external storage device or cloud service.

BATTERY CHARGE: Ensure your phone has at least 70% battery to prevent it from dying during the process.

UNLOCK BOOTLOADER: Your phone’s bootloader must be unlocked to flash a new ROM. This can be done via the ADB and Fastboot commands on your computer.

Risks

Flashing a custom ROM can void your warranty and, if done incorrectly, can brick your device. Proceed with caution and ensure you understand each step before proceeding.

Steps to Flash Android 7

Download Required Tools

You will need to download and install the following tools on your computer:

ADB (Android Debug Bridge): A tool that allows communication between your device and your computer. Fastboot: A tool that can flash custom ROMs and images to your device.

Custom Recovery

Download a custom recovery like TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) compatible with your device.

Android 7 ROM

Find a compatible Android 7 ROM for your device. Popular sources include XDA Developers or the manufacturers' forums.

Prepare Your Phone

Follow these steps to prepare your phone for the flash process:

Enable Developer Options: Go to Settings About Phone Build Number and tap it seven times to enable Developer options. Enable USB Debugging: In Settings Developer Options, enable USB debugging. Enable OEM Unlocking: In Settings Developer Options, enable OEM unlocking.

Unlock the Bootloader

Follow these commands in a command prompt or terminal window:

Connect your phone to your computer and open a command prompt/terminal. Type adb reboot bootloader to reboot into bootloader mode. fastboot oem unlock or fastboot flashing unlock for some devices. Follow on-screen instructions.

Flash Custom Recovery

Flash the custom recovery (TWRP) to your phone:

With the phone in bootloader mode, use the command: fastboot flash recovery (replace with the actual path to the TWRP image file.)

Boot into Recovery

Boot into recovery mode using the volume buttons to navigate and the power button to select:

Once in the recovery menu, select Wipe Format Data Erase all data.

Install Android 7 ROM

Install the Android 7 ROM:

Transfer the Android 7 ROM file to your device. You can use a USB cable or an SD card. In TWRP, select Install navigate to the ROM file swipe to confirm the flash. If you have GApps (Google Apps), flash them after the ROM.

Reboot Your Device

After the installation is complete:

Go back to the main menu in TWRP and select Reboot System.

Final Steps

The first boot may take several minutes, so be patient. Once your device boots up, set it up as you would with any new phone.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues, refer to forums or communities specific to your device for support.

Disclaimer

Flashing your device carries risks including voiding warranties and damaging your device. Proceed with caution and ensure you understand each step before proceeding.