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UPDATING OLD ONEPLUS 8T FROM LINEAGE ANDROID 11 KEBAB TO CURRENT

Updating old OnePlus 8T from Lineage (Android 11) kebab to Current

Navigating the complex landscape of Android custom ROMs and firmware updates requires precision, technical knowledge, and a clear understanding of device internals. When you are managing a OnePlus 8T (codename kebab) that has been running LineageOS 18.1 based on Android 11 for an extended period, the process of jumping to a modern build involves more than just flashing a new ROM zip file. The core issue facing users in this position is the firmware baseline. The bootloader, radio interface, and critical system partitions must align with the Android version you intend to run.

We have analyzed the specific query regarding the use of OxygenUpdater to fetch the latest OxygenOS build, likely based on Android 13 or 14, while anticipating an Android 16 future. The confusion stems from the difference between the ROM version (LineageOS) and the underlying firmware (vendor image). We will provide a definitive guide on how to safely update the firmware on a OnePlus 8T, ensuring compatibility with modern custom ROMs without bricking the device.

Understanding the Firmware Dependency: Why Android 11 Legacy Matters

When a device runs a custom ROM like LineageOS, it operates on top of a “vendor” firmware layer. This layer contains the blobs, drivers, and kernels necessary for the hardware to communicate with the software. If your OnePlus 8T is stuck on LineageOS based on Android 11, your current firmware partitions (Modem, Bluetooth, Boot, DTBO, Vendor) are likely from late 2021 or early 2022.

Modern custom ROMs, such as LineageOS 20 (Android 13) or LineageOS 21 (Android 14), utilize newer kernel sources and vendor dependencies. Attempting to flash a modern ROM onto outdated firmware often results in boot loops, loss of mobile data, broken camera functionality, or severe stability issues.

Therefore, the “firmware update” is not merely a suggestion; it is a mandatory prerequisite. The firmware acts as the bridge between the Android OS and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chipset inside the kebab. We must ensure this bridge is built with the correct materials before we attempt to drive modern traffic (Android 13/14/15) across it.

Clarifying the “Android 16” Misconception

A critical point of confusion in the user’s query is the mention of “Android 16.” As of the current timeline, Android 15 has recently been released, and Android 16 is not yet publicly available. It is highly likely that the user is referencing the OxygenOS 14 update, which is based on Android 13, or potentially confusing version numbers.

For the OnePlus 8T, the official support lifecycle has ended. The highest official OxygenOS version released for the kebab model is OxygenOS 14 based on Android 13. There will be no official Android 14 or Android 16 update from OnePlus for this device.

Consequently, when we discuss obtaining firmware, we are strictly looking for the latest available OxygenOS build for the OnePlus 8T. Currently, this is OxygenOS 14. This is the most mature, stable, and compatible firmware baseline you can acquire for your hardware. Attempting to find a “newer” version that does not exist will only lead to using unstable, unofficial ports (like Project Elixir or DerpFest) that might offer Android 14, but these usually require the Android 13 firmware as a base anyway.

The Correct Method: Extracting Firmware from Official OxygenOS

To successfully update a OnePlus 8T running LineageOS 11 to a current ROM, you must flash the full firmware package derived from the latest official OxygenOS ROM. Do not attempt to flash the full OxygenOS ZIP directly over LineageOS, as this will overwrite your recovery and likely cause a boot loop. Instead, we must extract the necessary partitions.

We recommend using a Windows PC for this process, although Linux and macOS can achieve similar results with command-line tools.

Acquiring the OxygenOS ROM

  1. Use OxygenUpdater (as suggested in your research) or visit a reliable firmware repository like XDA-Developers or the OnePlus Official Support site.
  2. Ensure you download the correct firmware for the OnePlus 8T (KEBAB). Do not download for the 8T 5G (India) or other variants if your device is international.
  3. The file will be a zipped .zip file. Do not unzip it yet.

Using the Local Upgrade Tool

The safest way to extract the necessary firmware images is using a tool that parses the payload.bin file contained within the OxygenOS update.

  1. Download a payload dumper tool (e.g., payload-dumper-go).
  2. Place the downloaded OxygenOS zip in a folder.
  3. Run the tool to extract the payload.bin file.
  4. From the extracted files, you need to identify the specific image files required for flashing.

Required Partitions for OnePlus 8T:

Preparing the Device: Unlocking and Safety Measures

Before touching the firmware, we must ensure the device environment is ready.

Ensure Bootloader Unlock

Since you are running LineageOS, your bootloader is already unlocked. However, we must verify the state.

  1. Enable Developer Options by tapping the Build Number 7 times.
  2. Enable OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging.
  3. Reboot to Bootloader (Fastboot Mode).
  4. Connect to PC and run: fastboot devices.
  5. If authorized, run: fastboot flashing unlock. This wipes the device.

Installation of ADB and Fastboot Tools

You must have the Android SDK Platform-Tools installed on your PC. Ensure the fastboot and adb binaries are in your system path.

Choosing a Custom Recovery

You cannot update firmware easily from LineageOS Recovery if you plan to switch ROMs. We recommend installing OrangeFox Recovery or TWRP (Official) for the OnePlus 8T. These recoveries offer better backup capabilities and mounting tools.

Step-by-Step Firmware Update Procedure

We will now perform the firmware update. This process will wipe your data if you are jumping across major Android versions (e.g., Android 11 to 13/14), so back up your data now.

Step 1: Flashing Critical Bootloader Images

If you are coming from a very old ROM or want to ensure a clean slate, flash the critical bootloader partitions first.

  1. Reboot to Fastboot Mode.
  2. Extract the extracted boot.img, reboot.img, and vbmeta.img.
  3. Flash them using the following commands:
    fastboot flash boot boot.img
fastboot flash recovery recovery.img
fastboot flash vbmeta vbmeta.img --disable-verity --disable-verification
fastboot flash vbmeta_system vbmeta_system.img --disable-verity --disable-verification
    Note: The --disable-verity and --disable-verification flags are crucial for allowing custom ROMs to boot without file-based encryption conflicts.

Step 2: Flashing the Vendor_boot and Other Partitions

For a stable upgrade, the vendor_boot partition is vital.

  1. Flash vendor_boot.img:
    fastboot flash vendor_boot vendor_boot.img
  2. Flash dtbo.img:
    fastboot flash dtbo dtbo.img

Step 3: Installing the Custom ROM

Once the firmware partitions are updated, you can proceed to install your target ROM (e.g., LineageOS 21, crDroid, etc.).

  1. Boot into your Custom Recovery (OrangeFox/TWRP).
  2. Wipe Data: Perform a “Format Data” (not just Factory Reset) to remove encryption. Type yes to confirm.
  3. Wipe System/Vendor: Go to Wipe > Advanced Wipe and select System, Vendor, and Cache.
  4. Install Zip: Flash the ROM zip file.
  5. Important: Do NOT flash GApps or Magisk yet. Reboot the system first to ensure the ROM boots.

Step 4: Post-Installation (GApps and Magisk)

If the ROM boots successfully:

  1. Reboot to Recovery.
  2. Flash your preferred GApps package (e.g., MindTheGApps or NikGApps). Ensure compatibility with the Android version of your ROM.
  3. Flash Magisk (if you root). You can find the latest Magisk apk renamed to zip in our repository at Magisk Modules.
  4. Reboot System.

Troubleshooting Common Update Issues

Even with a perfect firmware update, issues can arise due to the complexity of the kebab device.

Boot Loop after Flashing

If the device gets stuck in a boot loop:

No Mobile Data / IMS Issues

If you have Wi-Fi but no 4G/5G:

Fingerprint or Camera Failures

This usually indicates a mismatch between the ROM’s software blobs and the firmware’s hardware drivers.

Maintaining the Device: Updates and Backups

Now that your OnePlus 8T is on a current firmware and modern ROM, maintenance is key.

Incremental Updates

If you are staying on a custom ROM that receives monthly security patches (like LineageOS), you generally do not need to update the firmware every time. However, if the ROM developer notes “Firmware Update Required,” repeat the firmware flashing steps above.

Using Magisk Modules

After updating, you may want to restore functionality or enhance performance. We host a variety of modules on Magisk Module Repository that are compatible with modern Android versions on the OnePlus 8T.

Backup Strategy

Before any major update, always create a Nandroid Backup of your current Boot, System, and Data partitions using OrangeFox Recovery. Store this backup on an external USB-OTG drive. If the firmware update fails, you can restore this backup to return to your working LineageOS 11 state immediately.

Conclusion: The Path Forward

To answer the original query directly: Yes, you must update the firmware. You should use the latest OxygenOS 14 (Android 13) firmware available for the OnePlus 8T (kebab), extracted via OxygenUpdater or a payload dumper. You do not need, nor should you attempt to find, an “Android 16” firmware as it does not exist officially for this hardware.

By carefully extracting the boot, vbmeta, dtbo, and vendor_boot images and flashing them via Fastboot before installing your new custom ROM, you bridge the gap between the outdated Android 11 environment and the modern ecosystem. This procedure ensures hardware compatibility, security updates, and a stable user experience. Proceed with caution, verify your file hashes, and your OnePlus 8T will be reborn with current software capabilities.

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