Many users still face the need to update their devices to version Android 6.0 Marshmallow, despite the fact that this operating system was released several years ago. The relevance of the issue is due to the fact that it was in this version that a critical function was introduced native support for data encryption at the file system level, which became a security standard for all subsequent versions. In addition, Marshmallow brought the long-awaited control of application permissions and improved power management through Doze technology.
The installation process may vary depending on the manufacturer of your gadget, be it Samsung, Xiaomi or Motorola. In some cases, the update comes automatically, but often users are forced to resort to manual firmware if the device no longer receives official security patches. It is important to understand that switching to a new version is not just a change of picture on the desktop, but a deep restructuring of system files.
Before taking active steps, you need to assess the risks and prepare the tools. Data loss If taken incorrectly, this is a real threat, so you absolutely cannot neglect backup. Below we will analyze in detail all the stages, from checking compatibility to final system setup, in order to minimize possible errors.
Preparing the device and creating a backup copy
The first step in any flashing process is careful preparation. You need to make sure that the battery is charged at least 60-70%. Interrupting the installation process due to a low battery can result in the phone turning into a “brick” and requiring complex restoration using special programmers. Also free up space in the internal memory if you plan to download the system image directly to the device.
Creating a complete copy of the data is a mandatory procedure. Android 6.0 makes changes to the data storage structure, and old backups may not be restored correctly. Use built-in Google tools or third-party utilities to save contacts, photos and settings.
- 📱 Go to
Settings → Accountsand make sure that synchronization with Google is complete. - 💾 Copy important documents and media files to your computer or cloud storage manually.
- 🔒 Write down passwords for important applications, as they will have to be re-entered after resetting.
- 📡 Disable two-factor authentication on critical services, if possible, to avoid losing access.
⚠️ Attention: If your device is under warranty, manual flashing using unofficial methods may void the warranty. An official update through the phone settings is usually safe to guarantee.
☑️ Checklist before installation
Official update method via OTA
The safest and easiest way to get Android 6.0 Marshmallow is the use of the OTA (Over-The-Air) mechanism. Smartphone manufacturers gradually distribute updates, and if your device is supported, the system itself will notify you when a new version is available. This method eliminates the risk of installing a corrupted file or an incompatible build.
To start checking for updates, go to the settings menu. The path may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer's shell, but the logic remains the same for all Android devices. A stable connection to a Wi-Fi network is a mandatory requirement, since the size of the update package can reach 1 GB or more.
After downloading the file, the system will prompt you to reboot. At this point, the phone will turn off and begin the installation process, which may take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes. The screen may turn on and off, which is normal behavior for the memory partitioning process.
- 📶 Connect the device to a reliable Wi-Fi network.
- ⚙️ Go to
Settings → About phone → System update. - ⬇️ Click “Check for updates” and wait for the package to download.
- 🔄 Confirm the installation and do not touch the device until the desktop is fully loaded.
If the update does not arrive, but is officially declared for your model, try clearing the Google Play Services application cache in the Applications → All section applications.
Manual installation via Recovery Mode
If automatic updating does not work or you want to speed up the process, you can use the manual installation method via Recovery Mode. This method requires you to first download the correct firmware ZIP file specifically for your device model. Using a file from another model is guaranteed to damage the phone.
The firmware file must be placed in the root of the internal memory or on an SD card. After this, the device is put into recovery mode. The key combination to enter this mode depends on the manufacturer: most often it is holding down the volume up button and the power button at the same time.
In the Recovery menu, navigation is carried out using the volume buttons, and selection is made using the power button. You will need to perform a data reset (Wipe Data/Factory Reset) before installing the new version to avoid file conflicts with the old system. This is another reason why a backup is a must.
⚠️ Attention: The Recovery menu looks different on different devices. On some models (for example, Samsung) it may be blue with a text interface, on others (Pixel, Nexus) it may be graphic with the Android logo.
What to do if Recovery does not see the ZIP file?
If the file manager in Recovery mode does not display your firmware file, try moving it to a microSD memory card. Some stock recovery does not have access to the internal storage before installing the system.
Using ADB and Fastboot for advanced users
For those who prefer complete control over the process, there is a method of flashing the firmware through a computer using the tools ADB (Android Debug Bridge) i Fastboot. This method allows you not only to update the system, but also to unlock the bootloader if necessary to install custom assemblies. However, it requires a PC and basic command line skills.
First, you need to activate developer mode on your phone. To do this, click on the build number seven times in the “About phone” section. Then, in the menu that appears, enable USB debugging. Once you connect your phone to your computer, you should see a request for debugging permission, which you need to confirm.
Commands are entered in the terminal or command line. The process may look like sequential loading of partition images or using a sideload package. An error in the command syntax can interrupt the process, so carefully monitor the text you enter.
adb reboot bootloaderfastboot flash recovery recovery.img
fastboot reboot
- 💻 Install ADB drivers and the Android SDK platform on your computer.
- 🔌 Connect your phone with a good quality cable, preferably an original one.
- 🖥️ Open the command line in folder with ADB tools.
- ✅ Check the connection with the command
adb devices, the serial number should appear in the list.
Device compatibility and list of supported models
Not all devices released during the Android 5.0 Lollipop era have received an official update to Marshmallow. Manufacturers limit support depending on the technical characteristics of the processor and the amount of RAM. Minimum requirements For comfortable operation, Android 6.0 usually includes 1 GB of RAM and 8 GB of internal storage.
Below is a table of popular devices that officially support the transition to this version of the system. If your device is not on the list, installation is only possible through unofficial ports, which carries additional risks.
| Manufacturer | Device model | Support status | Release year Android 6 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nexus 5, 6, 6P, 9 | Official | 2015 | |
| Samsung | Galaxy S6, S7, Note 5 | Official | 2016 |
| Motorola | Moto G (2 gen), Moto X Play | Official | 2016 |
| Sony | Xperia Z3, Z4, Z5 | Official | 2016 |
| HTC | One M9, Desire Eye | Official | 2016 |
Always check the exact model of the device (for example, SM-G920F, but simply Galaxy S6) before searching for the firmware, since files for different regions may differ.
Solving problems after the update
After installation Android 6.0 Marshmallow users may encounter a number of typical problems. It is common to experience rapid battery drain in the first 24-48 hours. This is due to the fact that the system is busy optimizing applications and re-indexing files. In most cases, the problem resolves itself after a couple of charge-discharge cycles.
Another common issue is the incorrect operation of individual applications that have not yet adapted to the new permission model. Some apps may stop sending notifications or crash on startup. In this case, clearing the cache of a specific application or reinstalling it helps.
If the device is stuck on the logo during bootloop, there may be a system file conflict. In this case, you will need to re-enter Recovery Mode and perform a full reset (Wipe Data/Factory Reset). This will delete all data, but will bring the phone back to life.
- 🔋 Let the device work for 1-2 days to complete background optimization.
- 🧹 Clear the Dalvik/ART Cache partition cache via Recovery.
- 📲 Update all applications via Google Play Market to the latest versions.
- 🔄 Perform a hard reset if loading problems persist.
⚠️ Attention: Settings interfaces and menu item names may differ depending on the shell version (MIUI, TouchWiz, Sense, etc.). If you do not find the described item, use the search in your phone settings.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it safe to update to Android 6.0 in 2026?
From a security point of view, Android 6.0 no longer receives security patch updates from Google. Using this OS for banking applications and working with sensitive data can be risky. However, for basic tasks (calls, music, simple games) it is quite suitable.
Is it possible to return to Android 5.0 Lollipop after updating?
Yes, it is possible, but the procedure is complicated and requires unlocking the bootloader. You will need to find the official firmware (stock ROM) for your model with Android 5.0 and flash it via Fastboot or Odin (for Samsung). All data will be deleted.
Why did a lot of free memory disappear after the update?
The new version of the system takes up more space and also creates new system files. Additionally, applications may have created new cache files. It is recommended to delete unnecessary applications and transfer media files to a memory card or to the cloud.
Does Android 6.0 support work with two SIM cards?
Yes, Android 6.0 Marshmallow natively supports work with two SIM cards at the system level, which allows you to flexibly configure which SIM card is used for calls and which for the mobile data. Previously, this function depended solely on the manufacturer.