Update LineageOS via ADB Sideload

How to Update LineageOS via ADB Sideload

Updating your LineageOS device ensures that you benefit from the latest features, performance improvements, and security patches. The most reliable method to update LineageOS is using ADB sideload: a command-line utility that can transfer and install system updates directly from your computer. The detailed guide below outlines the entire process, from preparation through execution, including troubleshooting for updating your LineageOS device seamlessly.

What is ADB Sideload?

ADB sideload is a special feature of the Android Debug Bridge (ADB) tool that you can use to push and install firmware or updates onto your device from your computer. This has proven very helpful for manual updates if there are some problems with automatic OTA updates. It is highly used in custom ROMs, including in LineageOS.

Preparing for the LineageOS Update

Before starting the update process, ensure your device is ready. Proper preparation minimizes risks and ensures a smooth update process.

Step 1: Backup Your Data

Even though LineageOS is usually upgraded via ADB sideload without data wipes, it never hurts to do a backup. Use a backup tool, such as enabling TWRP, or a standalone app-based method, in order to save your personal files, settings, and apps.

Step 2: Install ADB and Fastboot on Your Computer

Follow the steps to install ADB and Fastboot tools on your PC or Mac.

Download the ADB Tools: - Download the tools from the official Android Developer page.
Install the Tools:

Extract the files, and add the ADB folder to your system’s PATH for ease of access via the terminal or command prompt.

Verify Installation:
- Open a terminal or command prompt and type:
```
adb --version
```

If the version information shows up, then ADB has been installed correctly.

Step 3: Enable USB Debugging on Your Device

Go to Settings > About Phone.
Tap on Build Number 7 times to enable Developer Options.
Go to Settings > Developer Options and enable USB Debugging.

Steps to Update LineageOS via ADB Sideload

Follow these step-by-step actions to safely update your LineageOS device.

Step 1: Download the LineageOS Update Package

Go to the official LineageOS download page for your device.
Click to download the latest update compatible with your model.
Save the file on your computer in a folder that’s easy to access.

Step 2: Boot Your Device into Recovery Mode

Power off your device.
Immediately after powering on, hold the key combination to enter Recovery Mode (commonly Power + Volume Down or Power + Volume Up).
Now in recovery, select the option to ADB Sideload.

Step 3: Connect Your Device to the Computer

Connect your LineageOS device to your computer by using a USB cable. Ensure that the connection is stable throughout the process.

Step 4: Verify ADB Connection

Open a terminal or command prompt on your computer.
Type the following command to ensure your device is detected:
```
adb devices
```
If your device appears in the list, proceed to the next step.

Step 5: Begin the Sideload Process

Open a command window or terminal and navigate to the location of the LineageOS update package.
Run the following command:
```
adb sideload <filename>.zip
```
Replace <filename> with the name of the downloaded LineageOS update package.
Wait for the process to complete. This may take a few minutes.

Step 6: Reboot Your Device

After the sideload operation completes, select Reboot System Now to reboot your device into the updated version of LineageOS.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

The ADB sideload update method is relatively painless, but things can go wrong. Here’s how to fix some common issues:

Device Not Recognized by ADB

Enable USB Debugging.
Try a different USB cable.
Reinstall ADB drivers on your computer.

Sideload Fails or Aborts

Check if the update package has compatibility with your device.
Download the update file again because it may get corrupted in the download.
Check if you are in the correct ADB sideload mode in recovery.

Device Stuck in Bootloop After Update

Enter recovery mode and Wipe Cache.
If that doesn’t work, you may want to Factory Reset (this will wipe your data).

Advanced: How to Sideload LineageOS (+magisk) on Locked Bootloaders

If you are using Magisk, after updating LineageOS, you need to reflash Magisk to maintain root. LineageOS updates often overwrite the boot image, which replaces Magisk.

Refash Magisk

Download the latest Magisk ZIP from magiskmodule.gitlab.io/magisk-modules-repo.
After sideloading the LineageOS update, sideload the Magisk ZIP using the same steps.
Reboot your device to maintain root access.

Advantages of Updating LineageOS via ADB Sideload

Control: You are in full control-you can update your device manually at will.
Reliability: ADB sideload works around OTA update issues for a clean install.
Compatibility: It works on devices with custom recovery or modified system partitions.

Conclusion

ADB sideload updating is one of the more robust and generally reliable methods of updating LineageOS with new features and security patches. This guide will cover everything you need to know for a seamless update experience: preparation, detailed steps, and troubleshooting included. If you want more customization and tools, visit magiskmodule.gitlab.io. Unlock your LineageOS device with all it deserves.

You also may like 〣〣