Google has just seeded a new update, which is based on Android 4.4.2 KitKat with build version KOT49H, for its Nexus branding devices including the fifth generation Nexus smartphone. This latest official build comes following the Android 4.4.1 KOT49E update, which integrates major camera enhancements for the Nexus 5, several minor changes, UI customisations and bug fixes.

Nexus 5
Android 4.4.2 KOT49H KitKat OTA update is rolling for Nexus 5.

The KOT49H Android 4.4.2 software also brings a number of changes, bug fixes and security enhancements. Additionally, it fixes the SMS denial-of-service vulnerability, found in Nexus devices.

Click here for our step-by-step instruction guide to install Android 4.4.2 KOT49H KitKat on Nexus 5.

Nexus 5 users, who have already installed Android 4.4.2 KitKat and currently looking for a root method, may follow our step-by-step guide. The tutorial uses CF-Auto-Root file released by recognised XDA developer, chainfire.

The CF-Auto-Root file roots the Nexus 5 easily without any difficulty. It is the root for rooting beginners and those who wish to stay as close to stock as possible. The root file is meant to be used in combination with stock firmwares. It is the quickest and easiest root method available so far. The CF-Auto-Root contains SuperSU binary and APK. It supports Windows, Linux and Mac. Head over to the development thread to know more about the root file.

IBTimes UK reminds its readers that it will not be held responsible for any damage to the device. Users are also advised to verify that their devices meet following requirements.

Pre-requisites

1) Install USB Driver for Nexus 5 to transfer files between the Android device and the computer.

2) Enable USB Debugging Mode on the phone to connect it with the computer and use Android SDK with it. [Navigate to Settings>> About phone. Then tap on Build Number several times until the message appears saying, You are now a Developer. Exit from About phone and find the Developer Options to enable USB Debugging Mode.]

3) As the tutorial might wipe all data off the phone, create a backup. If the device is having any custom recoveries such as CWM/TWRP installed then backup data using recovery.

4) If the Android device powers off due to lack of battery while the installation process, it could damage the device. Therefore, the Nexus 5 should have above 80% battery charge.

5) The bootloader of Nexus 5 should be unlocked. Click here for our step-by-step guide to unlock bootloader of Nexus 5.

6) The CF-Auto-Root file works only with Nexus 5 running on Android 4.4.2 KitKat (KOT49H). As applying this on any incorrect variant is likely to brick the device, verify the model number of Nexus 5 by navigating to Settings>> About phone>> Model number.

7) Rooting the device will void manufacturer's warranty. Users can reclaim the warranty back by unrooting it later.

Note: If the device has not been unlocked before, this procedure is likely to wipe out all data.

How to root Nexus 5 on Android 4.4.2 KOT49H KitKat

Step-1: Download and install Android SDK. Set it up with downloading platform-tools and USB drivers package in SDK [Click here for a guide]

Step-2: Enable USB Debugging Mode if you have not done it yet

Step-3: Download Fastboot and extract it in android-sdk-windowsplatform-tools directory

Step-4: Download CF-Auto-Root package for Nexus 5 to the computer

File name: CF-Auto-Root-hammerhead-hammerhead-nexus5.zip

Step-5: Connect the Nexus 5 to the computer using USB cable

Step-6: Switch off the Nexus 5. Enter into Fastboot/Bootloader Mode on the phone. To do so, turn the phone on by pressing and holding Volume Up, Volume Down and Power buttons together until Fastboot and Start appears on the screen

Step-7: Extract the download file (in step-1) on the computer. Go to that location

Step-8: From the CF-Auto-Root files in the Fastboot directory, do these following depending on which OS you are on

Windows users:

Run root-windows.bat

Linux users:

chmod +x root-linux.sh

Run root-linux.sh

Mac OS X users:

chmod +x root-mac.sh

Run root-mac.sh

Step-9: Wait and watch the process is completed and follow the on-screen instructions on the phone

Step-10: Once the process is completed the phone will boot automatically and it might take about five minutes for the first boot

Nexus 5 running on Android 4.4.2 KOT49H KitKat firmware should be rooted successfully. Look for the SuperSU app from the app list of the phone. Download Root Checker app from Play Store to verify the root status of the phone.

[Source: Team Android]

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