Updating Android Lollipop (5.0–5.1.1): all methods and nuances

Android 5.0 Lollipopreleased in 2014 was a revolutionary update with design Material Designimproved multitasking and notification system. However, today this version is long outdated - it does not support modern applications, does not receive security patches and works slowly on new devices. If your smartphone still works on Lollipop, it's time to think about updating.

In this article we will look at all possible update methods - from official (via OTA i PC Companion) to alternative (custom firmware, LineageOS, GrapheneOS). You'll learn how to prepare your device, avoid mistakes, and what to do if the manufacturer no longer supports your model. And if updating is not possible, we will give recommendations on optimizing the current version for maximum performance.

⚠️ Important: The update process depends on the device model, region and manufacturer's policy. Some methods (for example, unlocking the bootloader) may void the warranty or brick the phone. You perform all actions at your own peril and risk.

1. Checking the current Android version and compatibility

Before trying to update, make sure that your device generally supports newer versions Android. Manufacturers usually provide updates only for flagship models within 2-4 years after release.

To find out the current version:

1. Open Settings → About phone (or About the device).
2. Find the lines Android version and Build number.
3. Remember or write down the device model (for example, Samsung Galaxy S5, Xiaomi Redmi Note 3).

Now check the official support information:

• 🔍 Look for the "Support" or "Software Updates" section on the manufacturer's website.
• 📱 Enter the model in a search engine with the query "[model] latest Android update."
• 💬 Visit thematic forums (4PDA, XDA Developers), where users share their experiences.

If your device is older than 2016, most likely there are no official updates. In this case, consider alternative methods (sections 4-5).

2. air)

The easiest and safest way is updating by air (Over-The-Air, OTA). 1–3 GB).

Step 1: Connect to stable Wi-Fi network (update may weigh 1-3 GB).

Step 2. Charge the phone at least 50% (preferably up to 80%).

Step 3. Go to Settings → About phone → System update (path may vary).

If an update is available, follow these steps:

• ⬇️ Press Download and wait for the download to complete.
• 🔄 After downloading, select Install now or Install at night.
• 🔋 Do not interrupt the process! The device will reboot several times.

⚠️ Attention: If the update does not occur! is located, but you are sure that it should be, try:

• 🔄 Restart the phone and repeat the check.
• 📶 Connect to another Wi-Fi network or use mobile data (if allowed).
• 🗓️ Check the date and time in the settings - incorrect values can block updates.

3. Update via PC: manufacturer's apps

If OTA does not work, try updating via computer using proprietary software Each brand has its own. utility:

Brand	app	Link (official)	Features
Samsung	Smart Switch	support.samsung.com	Supports data backup before updating
Xiaomi	Mi Flash Tool	mi.com/global/miflash	Requires bootloader unlocking for some models
Sony	Xperia Companion	support.sonymobile.com	Automatically checks current firmware
Huawei/Honor	HiSuite	consumer.huawei.com	May require registration in Huawei ID

General algorithm of actions:

1. Download and install the app for your brand.
2. Connect the phone to the PC via original USB cable.
3. Turn on USB Debugging (Settings → For developers). data-i="117">USB debugging Build number V About phone.
4. Follow the app instructions to search for and install updates.

⚠️ Attention: When updating via PC all data on the device can be erased. Make a backup copy of photos, contacts and applications in advance (for example, via Google Account or Titanium Backup).

What to do if the app does not see phone?

Check the cable and USB port (try another one). Install drivers for your model (for example, Samsung USB Drivers). Disable the antivirus - it may block the connection. Restart both the phone and the PC.

4. Alternative methods: custom firmware

If there are no official updates, but the hardware device allows you to install custom firmware (for example, LineageOS, Pixel Experience, Resurrection RemixThis will give access to new versions of Android, but will require unlocking the bootloader and may void the warranty.

Advantages of custom firmware:

• 🚀 Support for current versions of Android (up to Android 14 on older devices).
• ⚡ Improved performance and battery life.
• 🔒 Regular security updates (as opposed to abandoned official firmware).

Risks:

• ⚠️ Loss of warranty (if the device is under warranty).
• 💥 Possibility of "bricking" (turning into a "brick") in case of an error.
• 📱 Some functions (for example, NFC, IR blaster) may not work correctly.

General installation algorithm LineageOS (for example):

1. Unlock the bootloader via fastboot oem unlock (instructions depend on brand).
2. Install custom recovery (TWRP or OrangeFox).
3. Download the firmware LineageOS for your model from the official website.
4. Make a full backup of the current system via recovery.
5. Flash the firmware GApps (Google services) and, if necessary, Magisk (for root access).

⚠️ Attention: The process of installing custom firmware is unique for each model. Always follow the instructions with. forum XDA Developers or the official firmware website. Incorrectly selected firmware can permanently damage the device.

5. Optimizing Android Lollipop if updating is not possible

If your device does not support new versions Android, you can improve its performance on the current firmware. Here are several effective ways:

1. Cleaning the system:

• 🧹 Remove unnecessary applications (Settings → Applications).
• 🗑️ Clear the cache (Settings → Memory → Cached data).
• 📂 Transfer files (photos, videos) to SD card or cloud.

2. Disable animations:

Animations slow down work on weak devices. To disable them:

1. Activate Developer mode (7 taps on Build number).
2. Go to Settings → For developers.
3. Set Window animation scale, Transition animation scale i Animator duration to Without animation.

3. Lightweight alternatives to standard applications:

Standard application	Lightweight alternative	Size (APK)
Google Chrome	Bromite or Via Browser	~10 MB
Google Play Music	Vinyl Music Player	~5 MB
Google Gallery	Simple Gallery	~8 MB

4. Using lightweight firmware:

Some custom firmware are optimized specifically for weak devices, for example:

• 🐢 Android Go Edition (if there is an unofficial port for your model).
• 📉 SlimROM or OmniROM with a minimal set of applications.

6. Solving common errors when updating

When trying to update Android Lollipop users often encounter problems. Let's look at the most common ones and ways to solve them:

1. Error "Unable to download update" (with OTA):

• 🔌 Check your Internet connection (switch from Wi-Fi to mobile data or vice versa).
• 🗃️ Free up space on your device (a minimum of 1.5–2 GB free space is required).
• ⏳ Try downloading the update later - the manufacturer's server may be overloaded.

2. The device is stuck on the logo after the update:

• 🔄 Force restart the phone (press Power + Volume Down for 10-15 seconds).
• 🛠️ If that doesn’t help, reset via Recovery Mode (Power + Volume up).
• 📥 Reflash the device via PC (see section 3).

3. Error "This update is not intended for your device":

• 🔍 Make sure you are downloading firmware specifically for your model (check Model number in Settings).
• 🌍 Try changing the device region (for example, via VPN or changing CSC y Samsung).
• 📋 If you use custom recovery, flash the official firmware via Odin (Samsung) or Fastboot.

4. After the update, some functions do not work (NFC, camera, sensors):

• 🔄 Reset the settings (Settings → Recovery and reset).
• 📥 Install updates for applications (especially Google Play Services).
• 🛠️ If the problem persists, look for patches or modified firmware with fixes on the forums.

⚠️ Attention: If after an unsuccessful update the phone does not turn on (black screen, indicator flashing), do not try to flash it again without diagnostics. Contact the service center - the memory may be damaged. EMMC-memory.

7. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is it possible to update Android? Lollipop to Android 10/11/12 on any phone?

No, it depends on the technical characteristics of the device. Android 10+ requires:

• A processor with support for ARMv8 or x86-64.
• Minimum 2 GB of RAM (for Android 12+ preferably 3–4 GB).
• TREBLE-compatibility (starting from Android 8.0).

Check your model on the website GSMArena or forum XDA.

Will I lose data when updating via OTA?

Usually no, but it is recommended to make a backup copy in rare cases (for example, when switching from Lollipop on Nougat) may require a reset. Always check the update information before installing.

Is it possible to roll back to Lollipop after updating?

Technically yes, but it is risky to roll back:

1. Find official firmware Lollipop for your model.
2. Unlock the bootloader (if it is locked).
3. Flash via Fastboot or Odin.

⚠️ Warning: Rollback may lead to problems with DRM keys (will not work Widevine L1, the quality of streaming will deteriorate with Netflix, Disney+).

Which Lollipop devices can still be officially updated?

For 2026, official updates for Lollipop are extremely rare, but some brands support certain models:

• Samsung Galaxy S6 (up to Android 7.0).
• Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro (up to Android 6.0 in some regions).
• Sony Xperia Z3 (up to Android 6.0).

For accurate information, check the manufacturer's website.

Is it worth updating if the phone has become slower on Lollipop?

Not always. If the device is weak (for example, 1 GB of RAM, the processor Snapdragon 400), the new version of Android may work even slower. In this case, it is better:

• Install light firmware (for example, LineageOS without GApps).
• Use launcher like Nova Launcher or Lawnchair.
• Disable background synchronization and animations.