Smartphone LG G7 ThinQ was the flagship device of its time, offering users advanced technology and a high-quality screen. However, over time, software needs to be updated to ensure security and compatibility with new applications. The process of upgrading the operating system on this device has its own nuances that must be taken into account to successfully complete the procedure.
Owners are often faced with the need for manual intervention when automatic notifications stop arriving. This may be due to the end of official support or regional features of firmware distribution. Understanding the bootloader operating mechanisms and installation methods will extend the life of your gadget.
This guide covers all known methods of upgrading to a new software version: from standard over-the-air updates to advanced methods via a computer. We'll look at preparing the device, what tools you need, and what to do if something goes wrong. Following the instructions will help minimize the risk of data loss.
Preparing the device for the update procedure
Before starting any manipulations with the system partition, it is critical to create a complete backup copy of all user data. Even when using secure methods, there is a possibility of a software glitch that can lead to the loss of photos, contacts and messages. Use cloud services or local storage to save important information.
Make sure the battery level is at least 60-70%. The process of writing new system files is energy-intensive, and a sudden power cut in the middle of the procedure can damage the bootloader. Connecting to a Wi-Fi network is also required, since firmware images take up a significant amount of space.
⚠️ Attention: If custom_recovery_ are installed on the device or the bootloader is unlocked, standard update methods may not work or lead to a cyclic reboot. In this case, a return to the stock state is required.
Free up enough internal memory. The system requires free space to unpack the update archive and temporarily store system files. It is recommended to have at least 3-4 GB of free memory before starting the installation process.
☑️ Ready for update
Standard update through settings (OTA)
The easiest and safest way to get a new version of the software is to use the built-in update mechanism. This method checks the manufacturer's servers for the latest build that matches the region and model of your device. The system will automatically download and install the package if it is available.
To run the scan, go to menu Settings → System → Update Center → Software Update. Click the "Check for Updates" button. If the server responds positively, the file download will begin. After the download is complete, the device will prompt you to reboot for installation.
Sometimes the process may freeze at the verification or download stage. In such a situation, it is recommended to clear the cache of the Update Center application. To do this, go to Settings → Applications → All applications → Update Center, select “Storage” and click “Clear cache”. Then try checking again.
If the update is not found, try temporarily changing the region in the phone settings or using another DNS server, for example, from Google (8.8.8.8).
It is worth considering that for models LG G7 ThinQ official major Android updates may have already completed. In this case, the OTA method will only offer the latest security patches, if they are still distributed by the telecom operator or manufacturer.
Using the LG Bridge app on a PC
When the wireless method does not work or the file is too large for the mobile network, proprietary computer software comes to the rescue. LG Bridge allows you to manage the device, create backups and update the firmware via cable connection.
Install the latest version of LG Bridge on your Windows or macOS computer. Connect your smartphone to your PC using the original USB cable. In the phone settings, enable USB debugging mode or allow data access if the system asks for confirmation.
In the app interface, select the “Software Update” tab. The app will automatically detect the device model and current firmware version. If a newer version is available, a button will appear. Follow the instructions on the screen without disconnecting the cable until the process is complete.
| Stage | User action | Indicator status |
|---|---|---|
| Connection | Insert USB cable | USB tray icon |
| Search | Click “Check for updates” | Search animation |
| Download | Confirm download | Download progress bar |
| Installation | Do not touch the device | The phone screen will go dark |
⚠️ Attention: During the firmware update via LG Bridge, the smartphone screen may go off and on several times. This is normal behavior, do not try to reboot the device manually at this point.
The advantage of this method is the stability of the connection and the ability to restore the device in case of a soft failure. The app has built-in mechanisms for checking the integrity of downloaded files before writing them to the phone's memory.
LG Bridge is the most reliable tool for updating, as it eliminates the risks associated with an unstable Internet connection on a smartphone.
Manual installation of firmware via Recovery mode
For advanced users, there is a method for manually installing a system image. This method is necessary if automatic tools do not see the update or you need to roll back to a previous version or install regional firmware. You will need a firmware file in the format .kdz.
Download the appropriate firmware for your exact model (eg LM-G710EM) from a reliable source. Place the file in the root of the internal memory or on a microSD card. Turn off your smartphone completely.
To enter recovery mode, simultaneously press the Volume Down and Powerbuttons. As soon as the LG logo appears, release the Power button and immediately press it again, holding both buttons until the Recovery menu appears. Select “Update from storage” and specify the path to the file.
What to do if Recovery does not see the file?
Make sure that the file has the extension .kdz and is located in the internal memory and not in folders. Sometimes renaming the file to update.kdz helps.
After selecting the file, the system will ask for confirmation for installation. Agree to the terms and start the process. The device will overwrite the system partition and reboot. The first boot after such a procedure can take up to 10 minutes.
Advanced methods: EDL and LGUP mode
In cases where the device is “bricked” or standard methods are powerless, emergency download mode is used EDL (Emergency Download Mode) in conjunction with the utility LGUP. This tool allows you to flash the device at a low level, ignoring the bootloader state.
To work, you will need the Qualcomm driver and the LGUP utility itself. The phone is switched to EDL mode using a specific combination of buttons or through the ADB: adb reboot edlcommand. In this state, the screen remains black, but the PC Device Manager will see the new Qualcomm port.
adb reboot edlIn the LGUP app window, select the downloaded firmware file .kdz. In the installation parameters, it is recommended to select the “Refurbish” option (Full flashing with cleaning) to avoid conflicts between old system files and new ones. This is guaranteed to delete all data, so a backup is required.
⚠️ Attention: Using EDL mode and flashing firmware via LGUP carries high risks. Choosing the wrong firmware model can irreversibly damage the device. Check the model codes carefully.
This method is often used by service centers to restore devices after unsuccessful experiments with root access or custom recovery. It returns the phone to its factory state out of the box.
Before flashing firmware via LGUP, save your IMEI and serial number by taking a photo of the sticker under the battery (if removable) or the box, in case you need to restore identifiers.
Solving common errors and problems
During the update process, users may encounter various errors such as "Out of Memory", "Authentication Failed" or an endless reboot. Each problem has its own technical justification and solution method.
If installation is interrupted due to lack of space, delete application cache, old downloads, and unused apps. An authentication error often occurs when trying to install firmware from a different region or operator. In this case, only a full reset via LGUP will help.
A cyclic reboot (bootloop) after the update may indicate a conflict of user data with the new system. Entering Recovery mode and running the command Wipe Data/Factory Reset usually solves this problem, restoring the device's functionality.
Is it safe to update the LG G7 ThinQ after support ends?
It is safe to update to the latest available official version. However, trying to install unofficial builds of Android of newer versions (for example, Android 12-14 through custom ROMs) requires unlocking the bootloader, which will void the warranty and may reduce the stability of banking applications.
What to do if the phone does not turn on after the update?
Try to perform a hard reboot by holding the power and volume down buttons 10-15 seconds. If this does not help, you need to enter Recovery mode and reset to factory settings or reflash the device via a computer.
Is it possible to update if the phone is locked to an operator?
Official updates via OTA usually come only from the operator who locked the device. To install global firmware, you will need to unlock the SIM lock or use specific firmware methods, which may be difficult for the average user.
Will the update erase my data?
Standard update (OTA) and update via LG Bridge in “Upgrade” mode save all user data. Complete cleaning occurs only when selecting the “Refurbish” mode in LGUP or when resetting via Recovery.