Motorola Droid Upgrades to Android 2.3: Alternatives and Current Developments

Motorola Droid users have been eagerly awaiting an upgrade to Android 2.3, also known as Gingerbread. However, as the original Motorola Droid model is discontinued, it will not receive any official 2.3 update. This article explores the alternatives available to Motorola Droid owners, including rooting the device and installing custom ROMs like CyanogenMod. Additionally, it highlights recent developments and future prospects for upgrading your Motorola Droid.

Current Status of Official Android 2.3 Update

Unfortunately, the original Motorola Droid, launched in 2010, is now considered discontinued. As a result, it will not receive any official Android 2.3 update from Motorola. Users looking to benefit from the performance and features of Android 2.3, such as improved battery life and new widgets, will have to explore alternative methods.

Rooting Your Motorola Droid and Installing Custom ROMs

One of the most promising ways to upgrade your Motorola Droid to Android 2.3 is by rooting the device. Rooting allows you to gain advanced control over your phone's operating system, which opens the door for installing custom ROMs. A Custom ROM is a modified version of Android that replaces the stock firmware with new features, improvements, and tweaks.

One of the most popular Custom ROMs for the Motorola Droid is CyanogenMod. This project focuses on providing a free, open-source version of Android tailored to various smartphone models. As of February 14, 2011, CyanogenMod had nightly build betas for Android 2.3, which you can flash onto your Motorola Droid.

Utilizing the Latest Custom ROMs

Recently, a new 2.3.3 build was released with a new kernel and is reportedly working well. If you are considering upgrading your Motorola Droid, this is a great option to explore. Before proceeding, it is essential to ensure that you have a backup of your device and all your data, as the process of rooting and flashing a Custom ROM can be risky if not done correctly.

Where to Find CyanogenMod ROMs for Your Motorola Droid

To find the necessary CyanogenMod ROMs for your Motorola Droid, you should visit the Droid forums on XDA Developers (XDA). This community-driven platform is a goldmine of information for Android enthusiasts. You can look for threads that discuss 2.3 cyanogen mod roms specifically for your device. These forums often provide detailed guides, warnings, and user feedback, which can help you make an informed decision.

Benefits of Upgrading to CyanogenMod

Upgrading to CyanogenMod offers several benefits beyond the upgrade to Android 2.3. Here are some key advantages:

Better Performance: Custom ROMs often include optimizations that can make your device run faster and smoother. Improved Battery Life: Enhanced battery management features can help you get more out of your Droid's battery capacity. New Features and Tweaks: CyanogenMod often includes new features, widgets, and tweaks that enhance the user experience. No Ads: Unlike certain Carrier Optimized ROMs, CyanogenMod is ad-free, providing a more enjoyable experience.

Conclusion

While the original Motorola Droid model will not receive an official Android 2.3 update, rooting your device and installing CyanogenMod is a viable alternative. This Custom ROM not only brings the latest version of Android to your Droid but also offers several improvements and benefits. By exploring the Motorola Droid forums on XDA and other reliable sources, you can make an informed decision and potentially enjoy a newer, more feature-rich experience with your device.