The long-awaited Android 4.1 Jelly Bean update for Sony Xperia S might be rolling out later this March, according to the Sony Mobile team in Germany. A tweet which relayed the answer to an inquiry of a Xperia S owner did not specify a date when exactly the roll out would happen. CyanogenMod developers have answers, and this includes a 4.2.2 CM10.1 build for Xperia S.

The following guide will instruct you how to unlock the bootloader, start in fastboot mode and flash the CM10.1 for Xperia S.

Disclaimer: The methods and tools mentioned on this step-by-step guide belong to their respective owners/developers.

Warning: Installing CM10.1 Android 4.2.2 is an Advanced modification of the Xperia S. The procedure can brick the device. Do not attempt this if you are not familiar in any modification of an Android phone. Do this at your own risk.

Preparation

1. Do not attempt this unless you have a FlashTool File or .FTF for restoring back the device back to its working condition.

2. Backup all data files, contacts, call logs and SMS.

3. Make you sure the device has an unlockable boot loader status, otherwise you cannot proceed. Carrier-branded phones are automatically disqualified for unlocking. Check the details here.

4. Read the FreeXperia thread from XDA developers more details.

5. Install the necessary drivers for Xperia S to your computer.

6. Use the Nozomi for Xperia S.

Files to Download

1. CyanogenMod 10.1 for Xperia S.

2. Google Apps for Xperia S.

Unlocking the Bootloader

1. Go to Dialler and type: *--SERVICE--* (Service: 7378423)

2. Select "Service Info > Configuration". Check if the "Bootloader unlock allowed" displays "Yes." No means you cannot proceed with the unlocking.

3. Copy the IMEI number at the of the screen.

4. Visit the Sony Web site for the unlocking procedure.

5. Turn off the device. Connect the device to computer via USB cable while pressing Volume Up (2012 models) or Menu key (2011 models) to enter Fast boot mode. A blue light will indicates Fast boot mode.

6. Run a Command Window as an Administrator and type the same folder where you have the "boot.img".

7. Enter the following commands: fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce getvar version

8. Fast boot version should be "0.5," otherwise you cannot proceed indicating an error of your drivers or phone itself.

9. Enter these commands: fastboot.exe -i 0x0fce oem unlock 0xKEY
Note: KEY = Replace it with the key from your email sent by Sony Mobile

10. Reboot your phone, enter this command: fastboot reboot

11. Disconnect the device and wait till it finished booting.

12. Go back to the Dialler and enter the Service Info. Check the Configuration again for "Bootloader unlocked: Yes". This means you can install custom ROMs for Xperia S.

Flashing CM10.1 with Android 4.2.2 Jelly Bean

1. Copy the CM10.1 ROM and Google Apps on your Xperia S.

2. Turn off the device and enter to Fast boot mode.

3. Copy the "boot.img" from the zip file and paste it where the Fast boot folder is located.

4. Go back to the command prompt and enter these commands:
fastboot flash boot boot.img

5. After that reboot the device: fastboot reboot

6. Go to recovery mode: One the LED light turns purple, press Volume Up once.

7. Before installing anything, wipe the device to avoid bootloops or start the entire flashing procedure again.

8. After the cleaning, "install zip from sd card" and confirm the CM10 zip file installation. Do the same for Google Apps.

9. Reboot the device then wait for minutes.

For the complete details about versions, different tools, and other links, visit TAHER128 and the latest CyanogenMod 10.1 for Xperia S.

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