How to Manually Upgrade Sony Xperia Sola with Android 4.4 KitKat Firmware
Sony Xperia Sola can be manually upgraded to Android 4.4 KitKat to get the latest features from the brand new OS version. Get the updated kernel version and bloatware-free system with Android 4.4 KitKat.
CyanogenMod 11
Android 4.4 KitKat update for Xperia Sola is now possible with the unofficial CyanogenMod 11 which runs the latest Android version. Enjoy the tweaks of the CM and be free from bloatware of various Sony apps.
Here are some notable changes and fixes on the CM 11 for Xperia Sola:
- Updated kernel version
- Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi tethering
- Audio output
- Microphone
- Transparent bar
- Lock screen widgets
- Settings and system UI
Requirements
1. Use this firmware to Sony Xperia Sola MT27i only.
2. Create a manual backup of all personal files and settings on your phone.
3. Battery level should be at least 75 per cent.
4. Unlock the boot loader of your smartphone via Sony's official unlocking procedure.
5. Install a custom recovery tool on your Xperia Sola. Click here to know how.
6. Install the ADB tool kit on your computer.
7. Enable USB debugging mode on your smartphone. Go to "Settings > Development > USB debugging mode."
8. Download the fastboot zip files.
9. Download the CyanogenMod 11 and Google Apps package to your computer.
Warning: CyanogenMod 11 is a custom ROM which requires manual installation. IBTimes and developers of CyanogenMod are not responsible for any damages that may happen on your Xperia Sola. Read, understand and follow the instructions carefully to prevent any errors. Do this at your own risk!
Flashing Instructions
1. Extract the fastboot files you have downloaded earlier to a folder on your computer desktop.
2. Unzip the Xperia Sola CM11 custom firmware which contains the "boot.img" kernel file.
3. Save it to the fastboot folder.
4. Connect your Xperia Sola to the computer using a USB cable.
5. Copy and paste the CM11 and Google Apps package to the SD card of your smartphone.
6. Disconnect the Xperia Sola from the computer then turn it off.
7. Press and hold the 'volume up' key while you connect the smartphone to the computer using a USB cable.
8. Once your phone LED turns blue, open the fastboot folder on your computer.
9. Open a 'command window' inside the fastboot folder.
10. Type the following commands: fastboot flash boot boot.img
11. After the message "finished" appeared, disconnect the phone from the computer then turn it on while pressing the 'volume down' key continuously.
12. Inside the recovery mode, select "backup and restore > backup" to save a copy of the current ROM.
13. Perform a full wipe by selecting "wipe data/factory reset" and "wipe cache partition" then "advanced > wipe Dalvik cache."
14. Install the CyanogenMod 11 by selecting "install zip from SD card > choose zip from SD card > find the CM11 firmware > confirm installation." Apply the same with the Google Apps package.
15. Once the installation has been completed, go back to the main menu and select "reboot system now."
16. The smartphone will reboot and may take up to five minutes before reaching the home screen.
For any comments or issues, send your feedback to Xperia Sola CyanogenMod 11 XDA developer main thread.