How to Update Your Nexus 6: A Comprehensive Guide

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The Nexus 6, a flagship device from Google and Motorola, may be aging, but it’s still a capable phone for many users. Keeping your Nexus 6 updated is crucial for security, performance, and sometimes, access to new features. However, official updates from Google have long ceased. This guide provides detailed instructions on how to update your Nexus 6, covering both the possibility of sideloading official images and installing custom ROMs.

Understanding Your Update Options

Before diving into the update process, it’s essential to understand the different paths available. Since Google no longer provides official over-the-air (OTA) updates for the Nexus 6, your primary options involve manual methods.

Sideloading Official Factory Images

This method involves downloading the official factory image from Google and manually flashing it onto your device. This is considered the closest you can get to a “stock” update, essentially reinstalling the operating system. This method can be used for both upgrading and downgrading your OS version. This method will wipe all data on your device, so backup your data before proceeding.

Installing Custom ROMs

Custom ROMs are modified versions of Android created by developers in the open-source community. They often offer features, performance enhancements, and security updates that are no longer available through official channels. Installing a custom ROM provides the opportunity to run newer Android versions than what Google officially released for the Nexus 6.

Choosing The Right Method

The best method for you depends on your technical expertise and desired outcome. Sideloading a factory image is simpler and closer to the original Android experience. Installing a custom ROM is more complex but allows greater customization and potentially newer Android versions.

Preparing For The Update

Regardless of the chosen update method, there are essential preparations to ensure a smooth process.

Backing Up Your Data

This is the most crucial step. Updating your Nexus 6, especially flashing a factory image or installing a custom ROM, can potentially erase all data. Backup everything – photos, videos, documents, contacts, apps, and any other important files. Utilize cloud storage services like Google Drive, or copy files to your computer.

Installing Android Debug Bridge (ADB) And Fastboot

ADB (Android Debug Bridge) and Fastboot are command-line tools that allow communication between your computer and your Android device. They are essential for both sideloading factory images and flashing custom ROMs.

  • Downloading ADB and Fastboot: The easiest way is to download the Android SDK Platform Tools from the official Android Developers website. This package contains ADB and Fastboot binaries.

  • Setting up ADB and Fastboot: Extract the downloaded ZIP file to a convenient location on your computer (e.g., C:\platform-tools). Add this location to your system’s PATH environment variable so you can execute ADB and Fastboot commands from any directory.

  • Verifying Installation: Open a command prompt or terminal window and type adb version and fastboot version. If the tools are installed correctly, you should see version information displayed.

Enabling USB Debugging

USB debugging allows your computer to communicate with your Nexus 6. To enable it:

  1. Open the Settings app on your Nexus 6.
  2. Go to About phone.
  3. Tap “Build number” seven times to enable Developer options.
  4. Go back to the main Settings menu, and you’ll find Developer options.
  5. Open Developer options and enable USB debugging.
  6. When you connect your Nexus 6 to your computer, you may be prompted to allow USB debugging. Grant permission.

Unlocking The Bootloader (Required For Custom ROMs)

The bootloader is a software program that runs before the operating system loads. Unlocking the bootloader allows you to flash custom ROMs. Unlocking the bootloader will erase all data on your device, so ensure you have a backup.

  1. Make sure USB debugging is enabled.
  2. Connect your Nexus 6 to your computer.
  3. Open a command prompt or terminal window.
  4. Type adb devices to ensure your device is detected. You should see your device listed with the status “device.”
  5. Type adb reboot bootloader to boot your Nexus 6 into bootloader mode.
  6. Type fastboot flashing unlock.
  7. On your Nexus 6, you will see a confirmation screen. Use the volume buttons to select “Yes” and press the power button to confirm.
  8. Your device will reboot.

Sideloading Official Factory Images

This method reinstalls the original operating system, providing a clean slate.

Downloading The Factory Image

  1. Visit the Google Developers website for Nexus devices.
  2. Locate the Nexus 6 (shamu) section.
  3. Download the latest factory image for your device. Make sure you download the correct version for your specific device model.

Flashing The Factory Image

  1. Extract the downloaded ZIP file to a folder on your computer.
  2. Boot your Nexus 6 into bootloader mode (as described earlier).
  3. Navigate to the folder containing the extracted factory image files using your command prompt or terminal.

  4. Run the appropriate flash-all script for your operating system:

    • Windows: flash-all.bat
    • macOS/Linux: flash-all.sh

  5. The script will automatically flash all the necessary partitions. Do not disconnect your device during this process.

  6. Once the script finishes, your device will automatically reboot. The first boot may take a while.

Installing A Custom ROM

This method allows you to install a modified version of Android, often with newer features and improvements.

Choosing A Custom ROM

There are numerous custom ROMs available for the Nexus 6. Popular options include LineageOS, Resurrection Remix, and others. Research different ROMs to find one that suits your needs and preferences. Consider factors like stability, features, and community support.

Downloading The ROM And GApps

  1. Download the custom ROM of your choice from a reputable source.
  2. Download the appropriate Google Apps (GApps) package for your chosen ROM. GApps are not included in most custom ROMs due to licensing restrictions. Choose a GApps package that matches the Android version of your ROM. Popular GApps options include Open GApps.

Flashing The ROM And GApps

  1. Boot your Nexus 6 into recovery mode. This usually involves pressing a combination of power, volume up, and volume down buttons while booting. The exact key combination may vary depending on your device’s configuration. You will need a custom recovery installed (TWRP is recommended) to flash a custom ROM. To install TWRP, download the TWRP image file for your Nexus 6. Boot into the bootloader, then flash it using the command fastboot flash recovery twrp-x.x.x-x-shamu.img (replace ‘x’ with the actual version numbers).

  2. In TWRP, perform a factory reset/wipe data. This is essential to avoid conflicts with the previous operating system. This will erase all data, so make sure you have a backup.

  3. In TWRP, tap “Install” and select the custom ROM ZIP file.
  4. After the ROM is flashed, tap “Install” again and select the GApps ZIP file.
  5. Wipe the cache/dalvik cache.
  6. Reboot your device. The first boot may take a while.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Updating your Nexus 6 can sometimes encounter problems. Here are some common issues and their solutions.

Device Not Recognized By ADB/Fastboot

  • Ensure you have installed the correct USB drivers for your Nexus 6. You can often find these drivers on the manufacturer’s website.
  • Make sure USB debugging is enabled.
  • Try using a different USB cable or port.
  • Restart your computer and device.

Stuck In Bootloop

  • A bootloop occurs when your device repeatedly restarts without fully booting into the operating system. This is often caused by incompatible software or a corrupted installation.
  • Try wiping the cache and dalvik cache in recovery mode.
  • If that doesn’t work, try reflashing the ROM or restoring a backup.

Error During Flashing

  • Double-check that you have downloaded the correct files for your device model.
  • Ensure you are using the latest versions of ADB and Fastboot.
  • Verify that your device is properly connected to your computer.
  • Try flashing the files again.

“No Command” Error In Recovery Mode

  • This error often appears when trying to access recovery mode. Usually, holding the power button and pressing the volume up button once will display the recovery menu options.

Post-Update Configuration

After successfully updating your Nexus 6, there are a few steps to complete the process.

Restoring Your Data

Restore your backed-up data, including photos, videos, documents, and contacts. Sign in to your Google account to restore your apps and settings.

Checking For Updates

After installing a custom ROM, check for any available updates from the ROM developer. These updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements.

Customizing Your Device

Take advantage of the new features and customization options offered by your chosen ROM. Experiment with different themes, settings, and apps to personalize your device to your liking.

Conclusion

Updating your Nexus 6 can breathe new life into your device, providing security updates, performance improvements, and new features. While official updates are no longer available, sideloading factory images and installing custom ROMs offer viable alternatives. Remember to always backup your data before attempting any update procedure. By following this comprehensive guide, you can successfully update your Nexus 6 and continue enjoying its capabilities for years to come.

What Is The Latest Officially Supported Android Version For The Nexus 6?

The last officially supported Android version for the Nexus 6 is Android 7.1.1 Nougat. Google released security updates for the device for a period of time after the initial Nougat release, but active development and support ceased after that. This means no further official operating system upgrades or feature updates will be provided directly by Google.

While the Nexus 6 is no longer receiving official updates, the Android community has developed custom ROMs based on newer versions of Android. Installing a custom ROM will allow you to experience newer features and security patches, but it involves unlocking the bootloader and flashing the custom ROM which can potentially void your warranty and has inherent risks if not performed correctly.

Why Should I Consider Updating My Nexus 6, Even If It’s Not Officially Supported?

Even though official updates are no longer available, updating your Nexus 6 through custom ROMs can bring several benefits. You’ll gain access to newer Android features, improved performance, and updated security patches that address vulnerabilities discovered after official support ended. This can extend the lifespan of your device and provide a better user experience.

However, it’s crucial to weigh the benefits against the risks. Installing custom ROMs can be complex and may require advanced technical knowledge. Furthermore, custom ROMs may not be as stable or polished as official releases and could introduce bugs or compatibility issues. It’s vital to research and choose a reputable custom ROM with a strong community support base.

What Are The Risks Involved In Flashing A Custom ROM On My Nexus 6?

Flashing a custom ROM on your Nexus 6 carries several risks that you need to be aware of. The process involves unlocking the bootloader, which can void your warranty. Additionally, if the flashing process is interrupted or performed incorrectly, it can potentially brick your device, rendering it unusable.

Furthermore, custom ROMs are not officially supported by Google and may contain bugs or security vulnerabilities. It’s essential to choose a reputable custom ROM from a trusted developer and to carefully follow the instructions to minimize the risk of problems. Always back up your data before attempting to flash a custom ROM.

What Is A Custom Recovery, And Why Do I Need It For Updating With Custom ROMs?

A custom recovery is a replacement for the stock recovery environment on your Nexus 6. It provides advanced features such as flashing custom ROMs, creating and restoring backups, and performing other system-level modifications that are not possible with the stock recovery. Popular custom recoveries include TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project).

You need a custom recovery to install custom ROMs because the stock recovery is designed to only install official updates signed by Google. Custom ROMs are not signed by Google and therefore cannot be installed through the stock recovery. Installing a custom recovery is a prerequisite for flashing any custom ROM.

How Do I Back Up My Data Before Updating My Nexus 6?

Before updating your Nexus 6, it’s crucial to back up all your important data to prevent data loss in case something goes wrong during the update process. You can back up your data in several ways, including using your Google account to sync contacts, calendar, and other information. You can also use cloud storage services like Google Drive or Dropbox to back up files, photos, and videos.

For a more comprehensive backup, you can use a custom recovery like TWRP to create a Nandroid backup. A Nandroid backup creates a complete image of your device’s system, data, and boot partitions, allowing you to restore your device to its previous state if needed. Remember to store your backup in a safe location, such as an external hard drive or cloud storage, to protect it from being lost or corrupted.

Where Can I Find Custom ROMs For My Nexus 6?

There are several reputable online communities where you can find custom ROMs for your Nexus 6. XDA Developers forum is a well-known and trusted source for custom ROMs, kernels, and other modifications for Android devices. Other places include dedicated custom ROM websites and forums.

When searching for custom ROMs, be sure to read reviews and feedback from other users to ensure the ROM is stable and reliable. Also, pay attention to the ROM’s compatibility with your specific Nexus 6 model and follow the installation instructions carefully. It is advisable to stick to ROMs that have active developers and a large user base for better support and updates.

What Are Some Common Troubleshooting Steps If I Encounter Problems During The Update Process?

If you encounter problems during the update process, such as bootloops or errors, there are several troubleshooting steps you can try. First, try clearing the cache and Dalvik/ART cache in the custom recovery. This can often resolve minor issues caused by corrupted cache files.

If clearing the cache doesn’t work, try flashing the ROM again. Ensure you have downloaded the correct ROM for your device and that you are following the installation instructions carefully. If the problem persists, you may need to restore your device to a previous state using a Nandroid backup or flash a factory image using fastboot commands. Always consult with the ROM’s developer or community for specific troubleshooting advice.

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