TWRP Pixel 2

Comprehensive Guide to Installing TWRP on Pixel 2

The Pixel 2 remains a popular device for custom ROM enthusiasts, and installing TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) is one of the first steps toward unlocking its full potential. Follow this comprehensive guide to learn how to install TWRP on your Pixel 2 the easy way, minus the headaches and frustrations that usually come with the process. Whether you’re a seasoned modder or a first-time tinkerer, follow these steps carefully to set up your device for customization.

What is TWRP and Why Install It on Pixel 2?

TWRP is a custom recovery that allows you to perform advanced operations on your Android device. This functionality makes features like

Installing custom ROMs and kernels
Creating full-device backups (Nandroid backups)
Wiping partitions for clean installs
Flashing Magisk for root access
Managing and removing bloatware

By installing TWRP on your Pixel 2, you gain unparalleled control over your device, opening the door to a world of Android modifications.

Prerequisites for Installing TWRP on Pixel 2

Before proceeding, ensure you have the following:

Unlocked Bootloader: Unlocking the bootloader is mandatory to flash TWRP.
USB Debugging Enabled: Navigate to Settings > Developer Options > Enable USB Debugging.
ADB and Fastboot Installed: Install the Android SDK Platform Tools on your PC.
Official TWRP Image: Download the TWRP recovery image for the Pixel 2 from the official website.
Compatible USB Cable: Ensure a stable connection between your device and PC.

Step-by-Step Guide to Install TWRP on Pixel 2

Step 1: Backup Your Data

Installing TWRP involves unlocking the bootloader, which will erase all data on your Pixel 2. Backup your data to a secure location before proceeding. Use Google Drive, external storage, or a reliable backup app.

Step 2: Unlock the Bootloader

Enable OEM Unlocking:

Go to Settings > About Phone > Tap Build Number seven times to enable Developer Options.
Navigate to Settings > Developer Options > Enable OEM Unlocking.

Boot into Fastboot Mode:

Power off your device.
Press and hold the Volume Down + Power buttons simultaneously until you see the Fastboot screen.

Unlock the Bootloader:

Connect your Pixel 2 to your PC using a USB cable.
Open a command prompt or terminal on your PC and type:


fastboot oem unlock

Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm.

Note: Unlocking the bootloader will wipe all data from your device.

Step 3: Download the TWRP Recovery Image

Visit the official TWRP website and download the appropriate TWRP recovery image for the Pixel 2 (code name: walleye). Save the file in a directory accessible via your terminal or command prompt.

Step 4: Boot into Temporary TWRP

Reboot into Fastboot Mode:

Power off the Pixel 2.
Press and hold Volume Down + Power to enter Fastboot mode.

Flash the TWRP Image:

Connect your device to the PC.
Open a terminal or command prompt and navigate to the folder containing the TWRP image.
Type the following command:


fastboot boot twrp.img

Replace twrp.img with the actual file name of the downloaded TWRP image.

Your device will boot into TWRP temporarily. Proceed to the next step to install TWRP permanently.

Step 5: Permanently Install TWRP

Mount the System Partition:

In TWRP, go to Mount and select System.

Install TWRP Installer ZIP:

Copy the TWRP installer ZIP to your device’s storage using ADB:


adb push twrp-installer.zip /sdcard

In TWRP, navigate to Install, locate the TWRP installer ZIP, and flash it.

Reboot to Recovery:

After flashing, go back to the main menu in TWRP and select Reboot > Recovery. This ensures TWRP is permanently installed.

Post-Installation Tips for TWRP on Pixel 2

1. Create a Nandroid Backup

A Nandroid backup is a complete snapshot of your device. To create one:

Boot into TWRP.
Go to Backup.
Select partitions like System, Data, and Boot.
Swipe to start the backup process.

This backup can be restored if anything goes wrong during future modifications.

2. Flash Custom ROMs

The Pixel 2 supports a wide range of custom ROMs, such as LineageOS, Pixel Experience, and Evolution X. To install a custom ROM:

Download the ROM ZIP file compatible with the Pixel 2.
Copy the file to your device.
Boot into TWRP and perform a clean wipe (Dalvik/ART Cache, Cache, and Data).
Flash the ROM ZIP and reboot.

3. Install Magisk for Root Access

Gain root access by flashing Magisk through TWRP:

Download the latest Magisk ZIP from the official GitHub repository.
Flash the ZIP via TWRP.
Reboot and install the Magisk Manager app.

4. Manage Advanced Modifications

With TWRP, you can:

Remove bloatware by deleting system apps in the file manager.
Tweak kernel parameters using custom kernel images.
Optimize performance with custom tweaks and scripts.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Device Stuck in Bootloop

Boot into TWRP and restore a previously created Nandroid backup.
If no backup is available, perform a factory reset.

Fastboot Commands Not Working

Ensure USB drivers are correctly installed on your PC.
Use an original or high-quality USB cable for a stable connection.

TWRP Not Booting

Verify the TWRP image is compatible with the Pixel 2.
Re-flash the TWRP image using Fastboot.

Conclusion

Installing TWRP on the Pixel 2 is a gateway to advanced Android customization. Take the first step towards making your device a power tool - follow this guide to install TWRP and discover all its capabilities. What was once a restrictive Android experience becomes a blank slate with TWRP, empowering users to flash custom ROMs and root their devices. Always remember to back up your data and proceed with caution when making system-level changes.

With your Pixel 2 equipped with TWRP, you’re ready to dive into the exciting realm of Android modding. It’s time to light up the night and make some memories - flash away!

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