
So if you want to be able to sign in with your Google account and use Google's services like Sync, Play Store, Gmail, Drive, etc., you'll need to install a separate GApps package. Step 2: Downloading GApps or Google AppsĬustom ROM distributions usually do not come with Google's apps and services pre-installed.

Don't extract the ZIP file, keep it as it is. Later on, you will need to copy the ROM file to the root of your phone's internal storage. But make sure that your phone can connect to your computer and can receive files, just to be clear that your device drivers are in place. Since you will need to data wipe your phone in some of the later steps, it's advisable to do the file transfer later on, after the data wipe. Once you've found the ROM you want to install, download the ZIP file either on your computer or on your phone. If you're not sure, ask about compatibility in the XDA Forums. Locate the appropriate custom ROM build for your exact device variant. Also, there can be multiple variants of the same device based on carrier, region, etc. Windows users are also advised to install the latest OEM USB driver for their Android device.Ĭustom ROMs are device-specific, so download a ROM that's made specifically for your device.

If you don't know how to unlock the bootloader of your phone, head over to the XDA forums, search for your device name followed by "unlock bootloader," and you'll find a guide.
