Android 5.0.2 Lollipop update for Nexus 7; Samsung Galaxy S3 users get custom ROM

Google moves quickly when it comes to rolling out its software updates. Just recently, users of the Wi-Fi variant of the Nexus 7 were treated to its latest one, the Android 5.0.2 Lollipop update wherein bugs brought by the original 5.0 Lollipop operating system were patched up. 

Android 5.0 Lollipop update[Photo credit: Android]

Back in November, Nexus devices including the Nexus 7 got a taste of the Android 5.0 Lollipop, which of course landed with inevitable issues despite the nice features it brought along. The 5.0.1 update then came ashore, which initially addressed the lingering bugs. According to Gotta Be Mobile, the search engine giant launched its newest OTA on Dec. 26. However, it reminded its readers that rolling it out can last for more than a week. In turn, those who would like to get the update will have to be patient as the OTA update takes its time to alight. Users will be notified once it's ready for set up as they will be prompted to download it, but they can always check the device setting to see if it is available. 

Meanwhile, Samsung Galaxy S3 users now have custom ROM right at their fingertips. It was based on the AOSP or Android Open Source Project 5.0.2 Lollipop. Although the device was Samsung's flagship way back in 2012, it already joins other handsets at the forefront that will get to enjoy the spanking new ROM. 

Android Origin iterates that the eligible variant is the GT-I9300 that carries the Exynos chipset. Although still in beta mode, users can already take advantage of goodies like kernel, updated-script, OpenGL, GPU rendering, HWComposer, rotation, camera, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC, sensors, internal and external SDcard, vibration, GPS and RIL. Nevertheless, caution is still advised before installing it. Android Origin also assures that the next beta build will attend to the bugs it predictably has. As per IB Times, the ROM is at 225.1MB. 

For the brave ones who decide to have the fresh ROM onboard, there are a couple of things to take note of. Battery life should be no less than 80 percent. Installing it will wipe out the handset's memory, so backing it up is a must. IB Times adds that having it onboard will void the company warranty, too, so users have to think it through before moving forward. 

When all that is set and the mind's made up and ready for the new ROM, users can follow these steps as outlined by Android Origin. First, download the CM12 Beta 2 ROM for the Galaxy S3 here from a computer. Then, get the most recent GAPPS package here. Connect the device to the computer and transfer the downloaded files to its internal storage. Then, turn it off and disconnect it from the computer. Boot into recovery mode (press holding "Volume Up," "Home" and "Power" buttons). Perform a factory reset by selecting the option that says "wipe data/factory reset" then clear the cache memory (select "wipe cache partition"). After that, tap "Install zip from SD card" and flash the ROM ZIP file. Shortly flash the GAAPS package. Lastly, reboot the device by tapping "reboot system now." It will take a few minutes before the process is completed.