Credit: Sony Mobile

Sony Xperia Z owners can now update their smartphone to Android 4.3 Jelly Bean version using Google Play Edition v2.0 ROM. The Android 4.3 firmware does not require you to root the device and it is stable for daily usage since it is Sony's Android Open Source Project build.

Requirements:

- Create a backup of all your personal settings and data files on your Xperia Z. The update is manual which will erase everything on your device.

- Enable USB debugging mode. Go to "Settings > Turn on Developer's options > tick USB debugging."

- You need to disable the MTP mode on your device. Go to "Settings > Xperia > USB Connectivity > Select MSC mode on the USB connection type."

- Battery level must be at least 50 per cent to safely update your device.

- Download the Android 4.3 Jelly Bean Google Play Edition to your computer.

Warning: We are not liable for any damages which may occur on your device. Read and follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your Xperia Z. Do this at your own risk.

Flashing Instructions:

1. Connect the Sony Xperia Z to your computer using a USB cable.

2. On your computer, extract the zip file from the downloaded zip to get the Android 4.3 firmware then copy the extracted firmware zip and paste it to the SD card of your Xperia Z.

3. Disconnect your handset and reboot it into recovery mode. Press and hold volume down, home and power keys altogether till the recovery mode appears. Use the volume keys to navigate and the power key to select options.

4. Inside the recovery mode, select the Nandroid backup option to create a saved version of the current ROM.

5. After the ROM backup, perform a full wipe on your phone. Select "wipe data/factory reset" and "wipe cache partition." Do a "wipe Dalvik cache" as well.

6. Now begin installing the firmware. Select "install zip from SD card > choose zip from SD card." Choose the Android 4.3 firmware you have copied earlier and confirm its installation.

7. Once the installation has been completed, go back to the main menu and select "reboot system now."

8. Wait for several minutes till the device reaches the home screen. Booting on for the first time takes time, be patient.

Well done! Your Sony Xperia Z is now running Android 4.3 Jelly Bean Google Play Edition with all of its new features.

For any comments, questions or issues, send your feedback to Android Advices 4.3 Jelly Bean for Xperia Z main page.