The smartphone Honor 20, released at the peak of the brand’s popularity, continues to be in demand due to its balanced characteristics and high-quality optics. However, over time, the software needs to be updated to ensure compatibility with new applications and improve security. Device owners often wonder how to properly carry out the upgrade procedure so as not to lose data and get the most out of the hardware.
The process of updating the operating system on this device has its own nuances associated with the lack of Google services in new firmware and the specifics of the shell EMUI. There are various methods for obtaining a new version of software: from a standard over-the-air update to manual installation via a computer. The choice of a specific method depends on the current version of the system and the availability of the manufacturer’s servers in your region.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the available methods for upgrading the software of your gadget. You will learn how to prepare your device for the procedure, what tools you will need, and what to do if the system reports no updates. A competent approach will extend the life of your smartphone and improve its performance.
Preparing the device for the update procedure
Before starting any manipulations with the system partition, it is critical to perform a number of preparatory steps. Ignoring these steps may result in the loss of personal data or, in the worst case, the phone being turned into a brick. The first step is to create a complete backup copy of all important files: contacts, photos, instant messenger conversations and notes.
For backup, you can use cloud services, such as Honor Cloud or third-party solutions like Yandex.Disk, as well as local copying to your computer. Make sure you have enough free space on your internal drive or memory card - typically at least 5-8 GB is required to unpack and install the update package. Lack of space is one of the most common reasons for installation failure.
⚠️ Attention: The firmware process will require a significant battery charge. Connect your smartphone to the charger and make sure that the charge level is at least 50-60% before clicking the “Install” button.
It is also recommended to check the stability of your Internet connection if you plan to download the update directly to your phone. Using a 4G/5G mobile network is acceptable, but a Wi-Fi connection is preferable due to the large volumes of transmitted data and greater channel stability. Disable any third-party antiviruses or optimizers that may block system processes.
☑️ Pre-update checklist
Updating through smartphone settings (OTA)
The easiest and safest method of obtaining a new version of the software is to use the built-in update module. The system itself checks for the presence of new assemblies on the manufacturer’s servers and offers to download them. To start the procedure, go to the menu Settings, then select System and updates and click on the section Software update.
Click button Check for updates. If a new version is available, you'll see a detailed description of the changes, including security fixes and new interface features. Click Download and install. The phone will automatically download the package, check its integrity and prompt you to reboot to complete the process.
Sometimes it happens that the phone writes “System updated”, although you know that a more recent version has been released. This may occur due to regional restrictions or phased firmware distribution. In this case, you can try to force check for the update through the app Support (Support), which is pre-installed on the device.
If the OTA update is not found, try changing the region in the phone settings (with caution) or use the "Support" application to additionally check the servers.
During installation, the screen will go off and on several times. Do not try to interrupt this process by pressing the Volume or Power buttons. After loading the system, it may take some time to optimize applications, so do not be surprised if the smartphone works a little slower in the first 10-15 minutes.
The OTA method is most preferable for ordinary users, as it minimizes the risks of errors and does not require a connection to a PC.
Using the HiSuite app on a computer
If wireless updating is not possible works or you prefer a more reliable cable method, the utility HiSuitewould be an excellent solution. This is the official software from Huawei/Honor to manage smartphones on PC. It allows you not only to make backups, but also to search for system updates that may not be visible on the phone itself.
Download and install the latest version of HiSuite from the official website on your computer (Windows or macOS). Launch the app and connect your smartphone to your PC using the original USB cable. A request for permission to debug or connect in HiSuite mode will appear on the phone screen - confirm the action and enter the code, if required.
In the app interface on your computer, find the button Update or System Update. The utility will scan the connected device and compare the current firmware version with the server database. If a new version is found, the update wizard will prompt you to download and install it. This method often helps to “break through” the situation when the phone stubbornly does not see the update via Wi-Fi.
| Parameter | OTA (over the air) | HiSuite (via PC) |
|---|---|---|
| Download speed | Depends on Wi-Fi | Depends on PC Internet |
| Risk of connection failure | Average | Minimum |
| Requirements | Phone only | You need a computer and cable |
| Data safety | Data is saved | Data is saved |
It is important to note that when using HiSuite, device drivers are installed automatically. If the connection fails, check whether USB debugging is enabled in the menu For developersalthough this is most often not required for a regular update. You just need to allow access on the lock screen.
Manual installation of firmware via Recovery
For advanced users or in cases where other methods are not available, there is a way to manually install the firmware file. You will need to find the official update file with the extension .zip or .app (depending on the structure) corresponding to your model Honor 20 (model number usually LRA-L29, LRA-L22, etc.).
The downloaded file must be placed in the root of the internal memory or on the card microSD In some cases, you need to create a folder dload at the root of the drive and move the file there. After this, turn off your phone completely. To enter recovery mode, simultaneously press the Volume up and Power buttons until the logo appears.
In the menu Recovery select a language (if available), then item Update mode. It is recommended to select Update from SD card or Update from internal storage, depending on where you copied the file. The system will find the package and prompt you to start installation. Confirm the action and wait for completion.
⚠️ Attention: When manually flashing via Recovery, it is critical to use a file designed specifically for your model and region. Installing someone else's firmware (for example, from Honor 20S or the Chinese version) will lead to the device not working.
What to do if Recovery does not see the file?
Make sure that the file is not damaged (check the checksum), the memory card format is FAT32, and the file itself is in the root or dload folder without any attachments archives.
This method allows you to update even from very old versions of Android, skipping intermediate steps, if allowed by the manufacturer's version rollback policy. However, it carries increased risks, so use it only if you are sure of the source of the firmware file.
Possible problems and solutions
During the update process, users may encounter various difficulties. One common problem is a signature verification or insufficient space error. In this case, clear the application cache and delete unnecessary large files, such as videos or downloaded offline navigation maps.
If the phone is stuck at the logo loading stage after the update, try to force a reboot by holding the button Power for 10-15 seconds. In more complex cases, when the system does not boot at all, you will need to enter Recovery mode and perform a reset to factory settings (Wipe data/factory reset), which will delete all data.
- 🔋 Fast discharge after the update - the norm in the first day, since the system indexes files.
- 📶 Wi-Fi problems — try resetting the network settings in the settings menu.
- 📱 Interface slowdowns — clear the system cache through the recovery menu.
Sometimes update servers can be temporarily unavailable due to technical work. If you receive a connection error, wait a few hours and try again. Don't panic if the download process has stopped at 99% - this often happens during the final check of files before installation.
After a major system update, it is recommended to restart your smartphone at least once manually so that all background processes are initialized correctly.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to update Honor 20 to Android 13 or 14?
Official support Honor 20 is usually limited to versions of Android 10 or 11 with the EMUI 12 shell. Getting newer versions of Android is officially unlikely, since the manufacturer has focused on new models. However, EMUI 12 brings many of the features of new versions of Android, even on the old foundation.
Will the update delete my photos and contacts?
The standard update procedure (OTA or via HiSuite) takes place in data saving mode. All your files, applications and settings will remain in place. Data reset occurs only when manually flashing the firmware via Recovery with the Wipe Data option selected or when critical errors occur.
What to do if Google services disappeared after the update?
On older Honor 20 firmware, Google services were pre-installed. If they disappear, you may have accidentally entered the global version without GMS or there was a glitch. Try installing Google Installer from a reliable source or restore the factory firmware with a full reset.
How to roll back to a previous version of Android?
Official rollback (Downgrade) through the settings is not possible. This requires the use of a special HiSuite tool in firmware recovery mode or manual flashing via eRecovery mode with loading an old version of the software, which is difficult for the average user.
How long does it take to update Honor 20?
The time depends on the Internet speed and the volume of the update. The download may take from 10 minutes to an hour. The installation and optimization of the system itself usually lasts from 5 to 15 minutes, during which the phone will not be able to be used.