Sony Xperia Z2 Gets Android 4.4.3 KitKat via CyanogenMod 11 Nightly ROM

Sony is yet to release an official Android 4.4.3 update for Xperia Z2, while the industrious Android custom ROM developers have already rolled out the latest KitKat update via AOSP based CyanogenMod 11 Nightly ROM.

The Xperia Z2 comes with a custom Android 4.4.2 UI out of the box. However, those who wish to enjoy stock-like Android experience can now install the first CM11 nightly ROM for the Z2, which is codenamed "Sirius".

As this is the first CM 11 nightly release, it may harbour a few untested bugs or broken features, which will be fixed in the upcoming releases.

Interested Xperia Z2 users can go ahead and install the latest KitKat update via Cyanogenmod 11 nightly ROM, using our step-by-step guide below.

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

Pre-requisitess

• The Android 4.4.2 CyanogenMod 11 ROM and the instructions given in this guide are meant for the international Sony Xperia Z2 model only. Verify device model number by navigating to Settings > About Phone.
• Verify that your phone has access to latest custom recovery tools such as TWRP v2.6.3.0 and higher or CWM v6.0.4.5 and above.
• Back up data and settings using a recommended custom recovery tool, like ClockworkMod (CWM) or TWRP, as it creates a complete image of the existing phone setup. In Recovery, choose Backup and Restore and tap Backup.
• Verify correct USB drivers for the phone are installed on the computer (download Sony Xperia Z2 USB drivers).
• Ensure USB debugging mode is enabled on the phone, by navigating to Settings > Developer Options (NOTE: Tap the device's Build Number seven times to unlock or reveal the hidden Developer Options under Settings.) Then select the checkbox to enable USB debugging mode under Settings > Developer Options.
• Make sure the device has at least 80% battery charge to prevent unexpected device shutdown (due to battery drain) while installing the ROM.
• Ensure the phone's bootloader is unlocked and rooted with latest ClockworkMod (CWM) Recovery or TWRP installed.

Downloads Required

Android 4.4.3 CyanogenMod 11 ROM for Xperia Z2

Google Apps

Steps to Install Android 4.4.3 KitKat on Sony Xperia Z2 with CyanogenMod 11 ROM

• Connect the Xperia Z2 to computer via USB cable and copy the downloaded ROM and Google Apps zip files to the root folder on the phone's SD card.
• Disconnect the USB cable and Power off the phone. Wait for 5 to 10 seconds until the device shuts down completely.
• Now Power on the Xperia Z2 and wait until the LED notification lights up. Now keep tapping Volume Up or Volume Down until the phone enters recovery mode. NOTE: In recovery mode, use Volume keys to navigate between options and Power key to select the desired option.
• Perform Wipe data/Factory reset (this will delete all apps and their settings and game progress) and choose Yes on next screen to confirm the action.
• Return to CWM recovery main menu and select Mounts and Storage > Format System and click Yes on next screen to confirm.
• From the main menu of CWM recovery, go to Advanced and choose Wipe Dalvik Cache. Then hit Yes on next screen to confirm.
• Select Install Zip from sdcard and then click Choose zip from sdcard. Browse to the location of the CM11 firmware file which you copied earlier to your phone's SD card. Choose Yes on next screen to confirm the firmware installation.
• Note: Repeat this step to install Google Apps as well.
• Once the firmware is installed, select "+++++Go Back+++++" and reboot the phone by tapping reboot system now from the recovery menu. Your Xperia Z2 will restart and it may take about 5 minutes for first boot to complete. So, do not interrupt the process.

Your Xperia Z2 is now running on Android 4.4.3 KitKat via CyanogenMod 11 ROM. Go to Settings > About Phone to verify the firmware installed.

[Source: XDA Developers]