If you own a Google Pixel device and have rooted it for customization and tinkering purposes, you might have faced challenges when it comes to installing official Over-The-Air (OTA) updates. While rooting gives you advanced control over your device, it can complicate the process of receiving and installing updates directly from Google. In this article, we will provide you with a complete guide on how to install official OTA updates on rooted Google Pixel devices.
Why Install Official OTA Updates?
Before we delve into the process, let’s understand why it is important to install official OTA updates on your rooted Google Pixel device.
- Security Patches and Bug Fixes: OTA updates often include critical security patches and bug fixes that plug vulnerabilities and enhance the overall stability and performance of your device. Installing these updates ensures that your device remains secure and optimized.
- New Features and Enhancements: OTA updates also bring new features and enhancements to your device, such as improved battery life, updated user interface, and additional functionalities. By installing these updates, you can enjoy the latest innovations Google has to offer.
The Challenge: Rooting and OTA Updates
Rooting your Google Pixel device unlocks the full potential of customization, but it also modifies the system partition of your device, which can interfere with the installation of official OTA updates. Google’s OTA update process relies on specific system partitions remaining unchanged, and any modifications made through rooting can disrupt this process.
The Solution: Install Official OTA Updates on Rooted Pixel Devices
Here is a step-by-step guide to successfully install official OTA updates on your rooted Google Pixel device:
Step 1: Prepare Your Device
- Backup your data: It is always a good practice to back up your data before performing any system modifications or updates. This way, you can restore your device to its previous state if anything goes wrong. Use tools like Google Backup or third-party applications to backup your data.
- Check your root method: Different root methods can impact the installation of OTA updates differently. Make sure to research and understand the specific root method you used on your device and its compatibility with OTA updates. Forums and online communities can provide helpful insights from users who have successfully installed OTA updates on rooted devices.
Step 2: Unroot Your Device
- Find the unrooting method: To install official OTA updates, you need to unroot your device temporarily. Depending on the root method used, there are various ways to unroot your Pixel device. Research and find a reliable unrooting method that suits your specific root method and device model.
- Unroot your device: Follow the instructions provided with the unrooting method to remove root access from your device. This will revert your system partition to its original state and allow OTA updates to be installed seamlessly.
Step 3: Install OTA Updates
- Check for updates: Once your device is unrooted, navigate to the Settings menu and check for OTA updates manually. Open “Settings” > “System” > “Advanced” > “System Update” to see if any updates are available.
- Download and install: If an OTA update is available, download and install it following the on-screen instructions. Ensure that your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network and has sufficient battery power to complete the update process.
Step 4: Re-root Your Device
- After the update is installed: Once the OTA update is successfully installed, you can proceed to root your device again if desired. Research and find a reliable root method that is compatible with the version of Android on your device.
- Root your device: Follow the instructions provided with the root method to regain root access on your device. Be cautious while rooting and ensure that you understand the potential risks and consequences.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can maintain the benefits of rooting while also enjoying the advantages of official OTA updates on your Google Pixel device. Remember, rooting your device comes with risks, so it is essential to do thorough research, back up your data, and proceed with caution.