Android 4.4 KitKat is expected to arrive on LG Nexus 4 after Google lifts exclusivity on Nexus 5 smartphone. If you cannot wait till Google releases the official ROM, you can download the available Android 4.4 ROM and manually install it on your Nexus 4 handset.

Nexus 4 with Android 4.4 KitKat

In a couple of weeks, Nexus 4 owners will receive their official Android 4.4 KitKat software from Google. However, some are just anxious to get it sooner which makes this available ROM good news for Android 4.4 lovers. Here are some things you'll get from the next-gen OS version:

1. New user interface

2. Better multi-tasking

3. All new apps

4. "Ok Google" on Google Now

5. Easy home launcher switching

Requirements

1. Unlock the bootloader, root your LG Nexus 4 and then install a custom recovery such as ClockworkMod recovery.

2. Create a backup of all personal information, settings and data files stored on your smartphone.

3. Make sure that the battery life is at least 50% to avoid power interruption.

4. Enable USB debugging on your device. Go to "Settings > Developer option > USB debugging mode."

5. Install all necessary USB drivers for the Nexus 4 on your computer.

6. Download the Android 4.4 KitKat ROM file to your computer.

Warning: This is not the official Android 4.4 KitKat firmware from Google which voids any warranty. Manual flashing may damage your smartphone and we are not responsible for any errors or damages that may occur on your device. Read, understand and follow the instructions carefully to avoid damaging your Nexus 4. Do this at your own risk.

Flashing Instructions

1. Connect the LG Nexus 4 smartphone to the computer using a USB cable.

2. Copy and paste the ROM file you have downloaded earlier to the internal storage of your smartphone. Do not extract the zip file.

3. Disconnect the handset from the computer and then switch it off

4. Reboot the device into recovery mode by pressing and holding Volume and Power keys at the same time. Use the volume keys to navigate and power key to select.

5. Inside the recovery mode, create a nAndroid backup of the current ROM. Select "backup and restore > backup." This can be restored anytime you want.

6. Perform a full wipe on the Nexus 4. Select "wipe data/factory reset" and "wipe cache partition" then "advanced > wipe Dalvik cache."

7. Now install the Android 4.4 KitKat ROM on your smartphone by selecting "install zip from SD card > choose zip from SD card > search for the ROM you have copied earlier > confirm installation."

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

Congratulations! Your LG Nexus 4 smartphone is now running Android 4.4 KitKat firmware.

If you have any comments, suggestions or bug reports, send your feedback to Android Advices official thread.