Asus first-gen Nexus 7 (2012) users are in for some great news as the first Android 7.1.1 update is now available via CarbonROM, thanks to the industrious Android custom ROM developers. With Asus ceasing software support long ago for the ageing tablet, the Nougat based custom ROM is the sole saviour for avid Nexus 7 fans out there.
As this is not an official release by Asus, it requires any custom recovery software like ClockworkMod or TWRP to be pre-installed, before flashing the CarbonROM and Google Apps zip files on your Nexus tablet. Unlike the stock update, the CarbonROM brings aftermarket firmware with fully-optimised features for a stable, smooth and seamless Android experience.
Interested users can go ahead and install the CarbonROM using the step-by-step guide provided below, after rooting their Nexus 7. IBTimes SG reminds readers that it will not be held liable for any damage to device during or after the firmware installation. Users are advised to proceed at their own risk.
Downloads Required
Android 7.1 CarbonROM for Nexus 7 (2012)
Google Apps for Android 7.1 Nougat
Prerequisites
- The instructions provided in this guide are meant for the 2012 model of the Asus Nexus 7 only. Do not attempt installing this ROM on any other phone as it could inadvertently brick the device or permanently damage it.
- Ensure that you have a computer and the original USB cable handy with you.
- Verify that USB debugging is enabled on your Nexus 7 by navigating to menu > Settings > developer options. To enable Developer Options, go to menu > Settings > About Phone and repeatedly tap on the build number until the "you are now a developer" message appears on the screen.
- Make sure that your phone has at least 80% battery charge, before you proceed with the CarbonROM installation on your Nexus 7.
How to install Android 7.1.1 CarbonROM on Google Nexus 7 (2012)
- Plug in your Nexus 7 to the computer via USB cable.
- Copy the downloaded ROM zip files to the internal storage on your device.
- Disconnect the Nexus 7 from the computer and then power it off.
- Boot the tablet into TWRP recovery mode: press and hold Volume Down and Volume Up, and Power buttons together. Release the buttons when you see Fastboot or Bootloader Mode options on the screen. Note: Use Power button to select recovery mode and Volume keys to scroll up/down or highlight an option before selecting it.
- In the Recovery menu (TWRP or CWM), select Wipe > Factory Reset.
- Go back to the recovery settings menu and select Install zip from SD card and then Choose zip from SD card. Now browse and select the CarbonROM from the tablet's internal memory where you copied the firmware file.
- In the recovery main menu, confirm the installation process by tapping on Swipe to Confirm Flash.
- Your Nexus tablet will now install the Android 7.1.1 Nougat based CarbonROM via recovery and then a confirmation message should pop up on the screen indicating that the installation was successful.
- Now browse and select Gapps file which you downloaded earlier via recovery settings menu after choosing the Install option. Confirm the flashing process and wait until Gapps is completely installed.
- You can now restart the device and take a peek at the newly installed Android 7.1.1 Nougat update on your Nexus 7. Note: The first boot might take some time as the ROM will update your system settings and startup files, before it boots to the Home screen.
[Source: XDA]
