Root Nexus 7 on Android 4.4 KRT16O KitKat and Install CWM Recovery [GUIDE]

Google recently released its source code for Android 4.4 KitKat for further development and testing, while third-party Android developers have been busy churning out a flurry of Android 4.4 custom ROMs for most Jelly Bean devices.

Nexus 7 is among the first few devices to enjoy the privilege of running Android 4.4 KitKat within days after Google launched its new operating system, thanks to the release of AOSP and CyanogenMod 11 custom ROMs by industrious third-party developers.

Those who have already installed the new Android 4.4 update can follow our step-by-step guide to root the same via SuperSU rooting tool. IBTimes UK reminds its readers that it will not be held liable for any device damage during or after root installation. Users are advised to proceed at their own risk.

NOTE: Rooting is essential to gain full system access to the device and be able to install third-party root apps, custom ROMs and latest system tweaks.

Pre-requisites

• The SuperSU rooting tool and instructions provided in this guide are meant for Asus Nexus 7 (2012 model) only. Do not attempt installing the firmware on any other model, as you might end up bricking the device.

• Ensure the device is factory unlocked and rooted with ClockworkMod (CWM) recovery or TWRP installed on it.

• Back up important data and settings on the tablet via one of the custom recovery tools such as CWM or TWRP to prevent data loss during firmware installation.

• Ensure the device has at least 80% battery charge to prevent unexpected device shutdown (due to battery drain) during firmware installation.

• Enable USB Debugging mode by navigating to Settings > Developer Options.

How to Root Nexus 7 on Android 4.4 KRT16O KitKat and Install CWM Recovery

Step 1 - Download Android SDK from the Android Developers website and install with USB drivers.

Step 2 - Download Fastboot and extract it to android-sdk-windowsplatform-tools directory. Create a new directory if it does not exist.

NOTE: Skip Steps 1 and 2 if they are already installed.

Step 3 - Download SuperSU v1.69.zip and copy it to the root folder of your tablet.

Step 4 - Then Power off the tablet.

Step 5 - Download CWM Recovery 6.0.3.1 or download TWRP 2.6.3.1 and copy it to the android-sdk-windowsplatform-tools directory.

NOTE: You may root the device by using either CWM or TWRP. If one fails to work, try installing the other one.

Step 6 - Now boot the Nexus 7 into Fastboot Mode. To do so, press Volume Down and Power keys together for a few seconds until some text appears on the screen, which indicates the device has entered Bootloader Mode.

Step 7 - Browse to android-sdk-windowsplatform-tools directory and launch Command Prompt (hold Shift with Right-click and then choose Open Command Prompt).

Step 8 - Type in the following command and hit Enter.

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

Step 9 - After the command is executed, choose RECOVERY option from the Fastboot menu to boot into Recovery Mode.

Step 10 - Scroll down and select "flash zip from SD card" option by tapping Power button.

Step 11 - Hit Power button again and click "choose zip from sdcard".

Step 12 - Now use volume keys to browse to UPDATE-SuperSU-v1.69.zip file that you copied earlier to your tablet and select it by pressing Power button. Confirm the installation on next screen and the root installation process should begin.

Step 13 - Once the root installation completes, hit "+++++Go Back" and reboot the phone by choosing "Reboot System Now" from the recovery menu. The phone will automatically reboot.

Your Nexus 7 is now rooted on Android 4.4 KRT16O KitKat firmware with CWM recovery installed. Check for the SuperSU app in your apps list to verify root access is working.

Also Read: Root Nexus 7 (2013) on Android 4.4 KRT16S KitKat and Install CWM/TWRP Recovery [GUIDE]

[Source: Team Android]