Upgrading Your Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 to Android Lollipop - Official vs Custom Methods

Upgrading your Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 from Android 4.4 (KitKat) to Android 5.0 (Lollipop) can be a straightforward process. However, the method you choose depends on availability. This article will guide you through both the official update and custom ROM installation methods, ensuring a smooth upgrade journey.

Method 1: Official Update if Available

Before attempting a custom ROM installation, check if an official update to Lollipop is available for your device. Here’s a step-by-step guide to update your device through the official method:

Check for Updates

Go to Settings Tap on About Device Tap on Software Update Select Check for Updates

If an update is available, follow the prompts to download and install it. Ensure your device is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network to avoid data charges and make sure your device is charged to at least 50% to prevent it from shutting down during the update.

Method 2: Using a Custom ROM if No Official Update is Available

For those who cannot find an official update for Lollipop, upgrading through a custom ROM is an option. However, this method requires some technical knowledge and can void your warranty. Proceed at your own risk.

Backup Your Data

Use Samsung’s Smart Switch or another backup method to save your data.

Unlock the Bootloader

Enable Developer Options: Go to Settings > About Device, tap Build Number 7 times and then enable OEM Unlocking

Install a Custom Recovery

Download a custom recovery like TWRP. Use tools like Odin for Windows to flash the custom recovery. Connect your tablet to your computer, open Odin, load the TWRP image, and start the process.

Download a Custom ROM

Find a compatible Lollipop ROM for the Galaxy Tab 3. Such as LineageOS. Ensure it’s for your specific model (e.g., SM-T210, SM-T310). Download the ROM and any required Google Apps (GApps) package.

Transfer Files

Copy the downloaded ROM and GApps to your tablet’s internal storage or an SD card.

Boot into Recovery

Power off the device and boot into recovery mode by holding the Volume Up, Home, and Power buttons simultaneously.

Wipe Data

In TWRP, select Wipe > Factory Reset. You may also want to wipe Cache and Dalvik Cache.

Install the ROM

Go to Install, find the ROM file, and swipe to confirm the installation. Repeat this for the GApps package if you want Google services.

Reboot

Once the installation is complete, reboot your device. The first boot may take a while.

Important Considerations

Upgrade your Samsung Galaxy Tab 3 to Lollipop with caution:

Warranty: Installing a custom ROM may void your warranty. Bricking Risk: There is a risk of bricking your device if steps are not followed correctly. Backup: Always back up important data before proceeding.

If you are not comfortable with these steps, consider seeking help from someone with experience in flashing Android devices.