How to Update Nougat on Lenovo Z2 Plus Without Rooting

If you're a user of the Lenovo Z2 Plus and are looking to update your device to the Nougat operating system (Oreo in fact, as Nougat was the version before it), there are several methods available to you. The best and most straightforward way is to check for an OTA (Over-The-Air) update provided by Lenovo or your carrier. However, in some cases, especially if your device is not supported by updates, rooting your device might be necessary. Understanding the differences and the potential drawbacks of each method can help you make an informed decision.

Checking for OTA Updates via lenovo

The easiest and safest way to update your Lenovo Z2 Plus to the Nougat operating system is by checking for an OTA update.

Steps to Check for OTA Updates:

Ensure your device is on the latest software version available from Lenovo. Go to Settings > Software Update. Tap on Check for Updates. If an update is available, you'll see a notification or a new version under the existing one. Tap to download and install the new version.

Lenovo devices often receive updates directly through a set process that ensures compliance with security and quality standards, making OTA updates a reliable option for most users.

Rooting Your Lenovo Z2 Plus for Custom ROMs

If your device does not support OTA updates or if you want to try custom ROMs for enhanced features, you might need to root your Lenovo Z2 Plus. Rooting gives you superuser access to the system, allowing you to modify and customize the device in ways that could open up new functions.

Steps to Root the Lenovo Z2 Plus:

Back up all important data as rooting your device may wipe critical data. Download and install a rooting tool that is specifically designed for the Lenovo Z2 Plus. Some popular choices include CF-Auto-Root (for CDMA models) and TEAM Win Recovery Project for GSM models. Follow the on-screen instructions of the rooting tool to root your device. This may include booting into recovery mode, flashing a custom recovery, and finally rooting the device.

Note: Rooting your device nullifies the warranty and could potentially void it. Always proceed with caution and ensure you have a backup of all important data. Additionally, ensure you fully understand the implications of rooting your device before proceeding.

Using Custom ROMs on a Rooted Device

Once you have a rooted Lenovo Z2 Plus, you can install custom ROMs. Custom ROMs can offer more control over your device, often providing faster performance, additional features, and the ability to completely customize the user interface.

Steps to Install a Custom ROM:

Ensure your device is rooted and the phone is in recovery mode. Download the custom ROM and the appropriate version of TeamWin Recovery (TWRP). Flash TWRP using a USB cable and a recovery tool like Odin or Heimdall. Boot into recovery mode and erase the system and cache partitions. Flash the custom ROM and boot into the new system.

Popular custom ROMs for older devices like the Lenovo Z2 Plus include LineageOS, which provides a great Android experience with a lot of community support.

Conclusion

Updating your Lenovo Z2 Plus to the Nougat operating system on the stock ROM can often be done through OTA updates, which is the recommended and safest method. However, if you are interested in more advanced features or have an older device that no longer receives stock ROM updates, rooting your device and installing a custom ROM might be the way to go.

It is important to keep in mind the risks and potential issues that come with rooting and installing custom ROMs. Always proceed with caution and make sure you have a full backup of your data before attempting any of these procedures.