Android 7.0 Nougat Update: Sony Xperia Z3, Z2 Not Getting Official Firmware But Custom ROM Available

Sony previously announced the mobile devices scheduled to receive the Android 7.0 Nougat update, and unfortunately, it did not include its 2014 smartphones, the Sony Xperia Z2 and Xperia Z3. But worry not for those who fervently want to experience Android Nougat with their Xperia Z2 or Z3, as a custom ROM has been developed for these handsets.

According to two separate reports from Team Android, Sony Xperia Z2 and Xperia Z3 users can install an AOSP custom ROM based on Android 7.0 Nougat. Aside from the latest OS, the firmware also provides the “look and feel” of Stock Android, the posts noted.

Since the AOSP custom ROM update based on Android 7.0 Nougat for the Xperia Z2 and Z3 is an unofficial firmware and is obviously not recommended by Sony, those who will decide to use it should know that any installation mistakes can cause the device to get bricked or damaged. Furthermore, any active warranty for these 2014 smartphones will be rendered void once owners push through with the installation. Thus, Xperia Z2 and Z3 owners are strongly advised to take all the precautions when utilizing a custom ROM to update their smartphone’s firmware.

For instance, there are requirements that need to be fulfilled prior to the actual installation of the Android 7.0 Nougat AOSP custom ROM. These pre-requisites will help to ensure a safe and successful firmware upgrade.

First, the battery should have at least 80 percent remaining power before installing the firmware to avoid the smartphone from suddenly powering off, as this could cause potential damage to the device. Secondly, creating a backup of all the pertinent data and settings stored on the Sony Xperia Z2 and Z3 is essential, because installing an Android 7.0 Nougat custom ROM can result to a wipeout of the device’s entire memory. The backup can be done through a custom recovery tool such as the highly-recommend CLockWorkMod (CWM) and TeamWin Recovery Project (TWRP).

Lastly, installing the Android 7.0 Nougat AOSP custom ROM to update the Sony Xperia Z2 or Xperia Z3 will entail the use of a computer. Thus, the appropriate drivers should be installed to the PC to successfully connect the smartphone. Also, USB debugging needs to be enabled on the Android phone to guarantee a smooth connection. To turn on USB Debugging, head to the smartphone’s “Settings” menu, look for “Developer Options” and finally, check “USB Debugging.”

For the download links and detailed guide on how to properly install the Android 7.0 Nougat AOSP custom ROM on Sony Xperia Z2 and Z3, check out the Team Android posts linked above.

Android 7.0 Nougat is Google’s latest major OS update for compatible mobile devices. It highlights several new features such as the multi-window support. Aside from a multi-window view, it also allows users to quickly switch between applications, providing a better multitasking experience for the users, according to Android Nougat’s official page. The latest mobile OS also offers support to more than 1,500 emojis – 72 of them are new. Moreover, with Multi-Locale language settings, communication is even better since two or more languages can now be used simultaneously.

The battery saving feature called Doze has been enhanced as well with Doze on the Go, which is explained below.

“Doze now helps save battery power even when you’re on the move. So your device will still go into low power usage while you carry it in your pocket or purse.”

Meanwhile, Sony Mobile, through its blog, revealed that they will release the official Android 7.0 Nougat firmware for the following Xperia devices: X Performance, XA Ultra, Xperia XA and X, Xperia Z3+, Z4 Tablet, Z5, Z5 Compact and Z5 Premium.

[Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images]