Root Nexus 7 (2012) on Android 4.4 KRT16S KitKat and Install CWM/TWRP Recovery [How to]

Like other Nexus devices, the Nexus 7 2012 model also received the latest Android 4.4 KitKat OTA software update with build version KRT16S. This is a bug fix update, which follows the release of Android 4.4 KRT16O KitKat firmware.

Nexus 7 users, who have already updated their devices to Android 4.4 KRT16S KitKat and currently looking for a root method may follow our step-by-step guide. Along with rooting, the tutorial helps install custom recovery such as ClockworkMod (CWM) or TWRP. The SuperSU root package, released by recognised XDA developer Chainfire, is used in this method to root the tablet.

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 the following requirements.

Pre-requisites

1) Install USB Driver for Nexus 7 to transfer files between the Android device and the computer.

2) Enable USB Debugging mode on Nexus 7. [Navigate to Settings>> Developer Options to enable USB debugging mode]

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

4) If the Android device powers off due to lack of battery during the process, it could damage the device. Therefore, the Nexus 7 should have above 80% battery charge.

5) The Nexus 7 should have unlocked bootloader.

6) The SuperSU root file and the custom recoveries are compatible with Nexus 7 2012 running Android 4.4 KRT16S KitKat. As applying this on any incorrect variant is likely to brick the device, verify the model number of Nexus 7 by navigating to Settings>> About tablet>> Model number.

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

Files required to download

Android SDK

Fastboot

CWM 6.0.4.3/ TWRP 2.6.3.1 Recovery

SuperSU [File name: UPDATE-SuperSU-v1.75.zip]

Steps to root Nexus 7 2012 on Android 4.4 KRT16S KitKat and install CWM/TWRP recovery

Step-1: Install Android SDK. This package includes necessary drivers for connecting the tablet to the computer, which is mandatory for the rooting process

Step-2: Extract the Fastboot.zip using winrar/7zip/winzip or any other extracting tool and copy it to android-sdk-windowsplatform-tools directory on the computer

Step-3: Copy the CWM or TWRP.img file to the android-sdk-windowsplatform-tools directory

Step-4: Connect the Nexus 7 to the computer using USB cable. Copy the SuperSU.zip root package to the internal storage of the tablet

Step-5: Switch off the Nexus 7. Place the tablet into Fastboot Mode pressing and holding Volume Up, Volume Down and Power buttons together until you see some text on the screen. This is Bootloader Mode

Step-6: Navigate to android-sdk-windowsplatform-tools directory and open Command Prompt

[Shift + Right Click>> to open Command Prompt]

Step-7: Type the following command and press Enter

fastboot flash recovery recovery-clockwork-touch-6.0.4.3-grouper.img

Step-8: Choose RECOVERY from the Fastboot menu and enter Recovery Mode

Step-9: In CWM recovery, select install zip from sdcard then select choose zip from sdcard

Step-10: Using the Volume keys navigate to UPDATE-SuperSU-v1.75.zip, which was copied earlier to the SD card. Select it using the Power button and confirm installation on the next screen

Step-11: After the installation process is completed, return to main recovery menu and reboot the tablet by selecting reboot system now

Nexus 7 (2012 model) should now be successfully rooted on Android 4.4 KRT16S KitKat with CWM/TWRP recovery installed. Open the app drawer of the tablet and look for SuperSU app. Verify root status of the device by downloading Root Checker app from Play Store.

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[Source: Honai of Android]