Google turned down Android 4.4 KitKat update for Galaxy Nexus due to the expired 18-month update window period. Fortunately, users gained support with Android 4.4.2 KitKat instead, which simply requires manual installation.

CyanogenMod 11 Delivers KitKat

Galaxy Nexus owners have been backed up by CyanogenMod 11 developers and now supports the device with Android 4.4.2 KitKat. CM 11 for Galaxy Nexus is different since it only includes important apps and eliminated all bloatware to bring out faster performance. But most features on Android 4.4.2 have been delivered by CM 11 makers.

Requirements

1. Use the Samsung Galaxy Nexus GT-I9250 smartphone.

2. Your Galaxy Nexus must be unlocked before you can flash the ROM.

3. Create a manual backup of all personal settings and data files.

4. Charge the battery to at least 50 per cent before flashing the ROM.

5. Download and install necessary USB drivers on your computer for Galaxy Nexus.

6. Root and install ClockworkMod recovery on the smartphone.

7. Enabled USB debugging mode by going to Settings > Applications > Development > USB debugging.

8. Download the CM 11 Android 4.4.2 custom ROM and Google Apps to your computer.

Warning: Manually installation of a custom ROM may damage your Galaxy Nexus. We are not responsible for any damages or errors that may occur. Read and follow the instructions provided to ensure safety of your smartphone. Do this at your own risk.

Flashing Instructions

1. Connect your Samsung Galaxy Nexus smartphone to the computer using a USB cable then copy and transfer the CM 11 and Google Apps zip files to the internal storage of Galaxy Nexus. No need to extract the files.

2. Turn off the device then reboot into recovery mode by pressing and holding volume down and power key at the same time till Google logo appears. Then press volume down key twice for recovery mode. Select reboot to recovery mode using the power key.

3. Inside the recovery mode, you should create a nAndroid backup of the current ROM by selecting "backup and restore > backup." You can use the saved ROM anytime you want to revert back.

4. You need to perform a full wipe by selecting "wipe data/factory reset" and "wipe cache partition" then select "advanced > wipe Dalvik cache."

5. Now flash the CM 11 Android 4.4.2 by selecting "install zip from SD card > choose zip from SD card > look for the ROM you've pasted earlier > confirm installation." Apply the same with Google Apps.

6. Once the installation has been complete, go back to the main menu then select "reboot system now" and wait up to five minutes till it reaches the home screen.

For issues or bug reports, send your feedback to Android Central original Galaxy Nexus thread.