Install Android 4.4 KitKat On A Sony Xperia Z

Sony has planned an update to Android 4.4 KitKat for their Xperia Z.  While it is not yet available, however, Xperia Z users can get an unofficial update to KitKat using CyanogenMod 11 custom ROM.  In this post, we are going to show users how to use CyanogenMod 11 to get Android KitKat on a Xperia Z.  Follow along.

NOTE:  The ROM may not be advisable yet for everyday use as there are a lot of bugs.  If you just want to play around with your device settings and try out KitKat then this ROM will do.  But if you really want to use KitKat on a daily basis, it might be better to wait for the official update or a more stable build of CyanogenMod 11.

Prepare your phone:

1. This guide is only for use with a Xperia Z. If you try to use this with other devices you could brick the device.
2. You should have unlocked your phone’s bootloader.
3. You need to have root access on your phone and the latest TWRP recovery installed before continuing on with the process.
4. Use TWRP recovery to make a Nandroid Backup.
5. Back up important media content as well as call logs, text messages and contacts.
6. Wipe your phone for a clean installation. After performing the necessary back up’s, boot into TWRP recovery and go to the wipe options.  Chose to wipe the data cache and the Dalvik cache.

Note: The methods needed to flash custom recoveries, ROMs and to root your phone can result in bricking your device.  Rooting your device will also void the warranty and it will no longer be eligible for free device services from manufacturers or warranty providers.  Be responsible and keep these in mind before you decide to proceed on your own responsibility.  In case a mishap occurs, we or the device manufacturers should never be held responsible.

Download:

• Download unofficial CM 11 Android 4.4 KitKat ROM.
• Now Download pa_gapps-full .zip file.

Install:

1. Place the two files you downloaded above to the SD card of your phone.
2. Boot your phone into custom recovery by following these steps:
   1. Turn the phone off
   2. Turn the phone on
   3. When the phone boots, press the volume up and down buttons at the same time.
3. Install>select the unofficial CM 11 ROM.zip file.
4. Install> zip file
5. After both these files have been installed, reboot your phone. You should see the CM 11 logo on the boot screen.

Have you installed Android 4.4 KitKat on your device?

Share your experience in the comments box below.

JR