Root Nexus 4 on Android 4.4.3 KTU84L KitKat OTA and Install CWM Recovery
Root Nexus 4 on Android 4.4.3 KTU84L KitKat OTA and Install CWM Recovery

Nexus 4 users recently received the latest KitKat OTA update with firmware build number Android 4.4.3 KTU84L from Google, which brings a host of bug-fixes, tweaks and feature enhancements for Nexus and Google Play Edition devices.

Those who have already updated their Nexus 4 to the latest official KitKat firmware (Android 4.4.3 KTU84L) can now root the same with SuperSU and install ClockworkMod (CWM) Recovery or TWRP Recovery, using our step-by-step guide below.

Click here to see our step-by-step guide to install the new Android 4.4.3 KitKat firmware via official OTA update.

Note: Rooting is essential to install third-party root apps, latest custom ROMs and system tweaks for optimum performance of the device.

IBTimes UK reminds its readers that it will not be held liable for any damage to device during or after root installation. Users are advised to proceed at their own risk.

Pre-requisites

1. Install USB Drivers for LG Nexus 4 E960 on the computer.

2. Enable USB Debugging Mode on the phone by navigating to Settings >> Developer Options.

3. Back up all your important data before you proceed with installation process.

4. Ensure the phone's bootloader and SIM are unlocked before you proceed.

5. Download Android SDK and setup ADB and Fastboot on Windows.

6. Download Fastboot from the following links (based on your OS) and extract its contents to android-sdk-windowsplatform-tools directory. Create a new directory if it does not exist.

7. Ensure the phone's battery has at least 80% charge.

8. The Android 4.4.3 KTU84L KitKat firmware is compatible only with the LG Nexus 4 E960 model. Do not attempt installing this firmware on incorrect variants as it may damage or brick the device. Verify the model number of the Nexus 4 by navigating to Settings >> About phone.

Steps to Root Nexus 4 on Official Android 4.4.3 KTU84L KitKat Firmware

Step 1: Download SuperSU v1.99 (UPDATE-SuperSU-v1.99.zip) for Nexus 4 on your computer.

Step 2: Connect and mount the Nexus 4 USB mass storage on computer via USB cable.

Step 3: Copy the downloaded SuperSU root package to the root folder on your phone's internal memory.

Step 4: Power off your phone.

Step 5: Download CWM 6.0.4.7 or TWRP 2.7.1.0 and save it to the android-sdk-windowsplatform-tools directory on your computer.

Note: You may use either of the two custom recoveries based on your preference and convenience. Try using the other, if one fails to work.

Step 6: Boot the Nexus 4 into Fastboot/Bootloader mode by pressing and holding Volume Down and Power keys for a few seconds until some text pops up on screen. This confirms entry into Bootloader mode.

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

Step 8 - Type in the following command and press Enter:

fastboot flash recovery recovery-clockwork-touch-6.0.4.7-mako.img

Step 9 – After executing the command, choose RECOVERY from the Fastboot menu and enter Recovery Mode.

Step 10 - In CWM recovery, navigate to "flash zip from SD card" option and hit power button to select it.

Step 11 - Tap the Power button again and select "choose zip from sdcard".

Step 12 - Now use volume keys to navigate to UPDATE-SuperSU-v1.99.zip file and select it by tapping Power button. Confirm the root installation on next screen and let the install procedure begin.

Step 13 - Once the installation is done, choose "+++++Go Back" and reboot the phone by selecting "reboot system now" from the Recovery menu. The phone will restart now and it may take about 5 minutes for first boot to complete. So, please wait.

Your Nexus 4 is now rooted on official Android 4.4.3 KitKat firmware. Check for SuperSU app in your apps list to verify if root installation is successful.

[Source: Team Android]

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