The Samsung Galaxy S6 and S6 Edge were launched in March 2015, originally running Android 5.0.2 Lollipop and later upgraded to Android 7.0 Nougat. This guide will show you how to install an unofficial Android 13 Custom ROM on these devices, allowing you to experience the latest version of Android.
Samsung Galaxy S6 Specifications
- Display: 5.1 inches, 1440 x 2560 pixels
- Processor: Exynos 7420 Octa
- RAM: 3GB
- Internal Storage: 32/64/128GB
- Rear Camera: 16MP
- Front Camera: 5MP
- Battery: Non-removable Li-Ion 3080 mAh with Fast Charging (40% in 60 minutes, Quick Charge 2.0)
Features of Android 13
Android 13, the successor to Android 12, brings several enhancements over its predecessor. Key features include:
- Material You: Customizable UI with rounded corners and improved pop-ups.
- Scrolling Screenshots: Capture entire webpages or long chat threads.
- One-Handed Mode: Improved UI for easier one-handed use.
- Privacy & Security: Enhanced app notifications, per-app language preferences, and more.
- Bluetooth LE Audio Support: Better audio quality and battery efficiency.
- Auto-Theme Icons & Updated Widgets: Personalized and improved visual elements.
- Intuitive QR Scanner & Enhanced Silent Mode: New functionalities for convenience.
- Multiple NFC Payment Profiles: Manage different payment methods easily.
What’s Working and Known Issues
Working:
- Wi-Fi
- RIL
- VoLTE
- Mobile Data
- GPS
- Camera
- Flashlight
- Camcorder
- Bluetooth
- Fingerprint Sensor
- FM Radio
- Sound
- Vibration
Known Issues:
- To be determined by users
Installation Guide for AOSP Android 13
Before you start, ensure you follow these pre-requisites:
- Backup Your Device: Always back up your data before making significant changes.
- Charge Your Phone: Ensure your phone is at least 50% charged to prevent shutdowns during the process.
- Download ADB and Fastboot Binaries: Required for booting into bootloader mode. You can download them from the official platform-tools page.
- Download Samsung USB Drivers: Essential for establishing a proper connection between your device and computer. Obtain them from the official Samsung website.
- Unlock Bootloader: Required for flashing custom ROMs. Follow a reliable guide to unlock your device’s bootloader.
- Install TWRP Recovery: Necessary for installing custom ROMs. Follow instructions to install TWRP on your Galaxy S6 or S6 Edge.
- Download Android 13 ROM and GApps: Download the Android 13 Custom ROM and GApps (Google Apps package) for your device.
Warning: Flashing custom ROMs can risk bricking your device. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.
Installation Steps:
- Connect Your Device: Use a USB cable and ensure USB Debugging is enabled on your device.
- Launch Command Prompt: In the platform-tools folder, type
CMD
in the address bar and press Enter. - Boot into TWRP Recovery: Type
adb reboot recovery
in the Command Prompt or use the Volume and Power buttons to enter TWRP Recovery. - Flash Firmware: In TWRP, go to the Install section, select the downloaded vendor and firmware, and swipe to flash.
- Install Google Apps: If you want Google Apps, select the GApps ZIP file in the Install section and swipe to flash.
- Reboot Your Device: Go to Reboot and select System.
Your device will now boot into the newly installed OS. Note that the initial boot may take longer than usual, and you might need to set up your device from scratch.
Conclusion
Installing Android 13 on your Galaxy S6 or S6 Edge provides a glimpse of the latest Android features and visual improvements. Since these models are unlikely to receive official Android 13 updates, this custom ROM is a good alternative. If you encounter any issues or bugs, report them to the respective forums.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to comment below.