How to Upgrade Your Android Lollipop Phone to Nougat: A Comprehensive Guide

Upgrading your Android device from Lollipop (5.x) to Nougat (7.x) can significantly enhance your phone's performance and features. This guide provides a step-by-step process to ensure you get the best out of your Android experience, whether you're using a manufacturer's official update or a custom ROM. Let's dive in!

Check for Official Updates

The first and most straightforward way to upgrade to Nougat is through official channels. Here’s how you can do it:

Open the Settings App: On your device, go to the Settings app. Go to About Phone: Scroll down to find the "About" section and tap on it. Find System Updates: Locate the "System Updates" or a similar option. Check for Updates: Tap on the "Check for Updates" option to see if there's an available Nougat update from your manufacturer.

Using Manufacturer Software

If your manufacturer has specific software tools for updating devices, here’s how you can use them:

Samsung: Smart Switch

Download the Software: Go to Samsung's official website and download the Smart Switch app. Connect Your Device: Connect your Samsung device to your computer using the supplied USB cable. Run Smart Switch: Open the Smart Switch app on your computer and follow the instructions to check for and install the Nougat update.

Download LG Bridge: Visit the LG app store and download LG Bridge on your computer. Connect Your Device: Connect your LG device to the computer using a USB cable. Run LG Bridge: Use LG Bridge to check for and install the Nougat update.

Sony: Xperia Companion

Download Xperia Companion: Go to the Google Play Store and download the Xperia Companion app. Connect Your Device: Connect your Sony device to your computer via USB. Run Xperia Companion: Use the app to check for and install the Nougat update.

Factory Reset (Optional)

If you encounter issues during the update process, performing a factory reset may be necessary before attempting the update again. However, always back up your data first as this will erase all data on your device.

Steps for Factory Reset

Backup Your Data: Ensure you have a backup of all important data on your device. Perform Factory Reset: Go to Settings > System > Reset options > Erase all data (factory reset). Follow the Instructions: Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the reset and allow the process to complete.

Manual Update (for Advanced Users)

If your device does not receive official updates, you may consider installing a custom ROM like LineageOS. This process is more complex and may void your warranty, so proceed with caution.

Steps for Manual Update

Research Your Device: Find guides specific to your device model. Unlock Bootloader: Unlock your device's bootloader to make it compatible with custom ROMs. Install a Custom Recovery: Install a custom recovery like TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project). Download the ROM: Find a compatible LineageOS ROM and GApps package for Nougat. Flash the ROM: Boot your device into recovery mode, select the custom recovery, and follow the instructions to flash the new ROM and GApps.

Post-Update Steps

After upgrading to Nougat, perform the following steps:

Check for Additional Updates: Look for any optional security or system updates from your manufacturer. Reinstall Your Apps: Reinstall any apps you had uninstalled or that may need to be updated to the new version.

Conclusion

Upgrading your Android device from Lollipop to Nougat can offer significant improvements. Always ensure your device is compatible with the new version of Android before proceeding. If official updates are not available, explore custom ROMs for a more advanced upgrade process. Remember, a factory reset and bootloader unlocking are optional but can be necessary steps in certain situations.