People can now update their Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini to Android 4.4 KitKat thanks to a ROM based on CyanogenMod 11. There are several requirements people should complete before they can proceed with the update. It is also best to go through the instructions a few times before updating.

The custom ROM based on CyanogenMod 11 features the following:

  • 2D/3D hardware acceleration
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.0 with LE and A2DP
  • GPS and A-GPS
  • Glonass navigation
  • Compass and sensors
  • All native tethering
  • CPU sleep mode
  • Kernel version 3.0.101
  • CyanogenMod 11 functions
  • YouTube HQ
  • Wi-Fi direct
  • Camera and video playback
  • Offline charging
  • No 1 GHz bug

Follow these instructions for the upgrade:

Important note: This update is possible with the Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini GT-I8190 smartphone.

1. Do a backup of all important information including files and settings of the smartphone.

2. Ensure the handset is charged at least 50%.

3. Root the Galaxy S3 Mini then install ClockworkMod custom recovery.

4. Allow the USB debugging mode. To do this, Open 'Settings > Applications > Development > USB debugging.'

5. Download and install required USB drivers for a Windows computer and Galaxy S3 Mini.

6. Download the CyanogenMod 11 and Google Apps on the computer.

Warning: CyanogenMod 11 needs to be manually installed. It can damage the handset depending on the situation. Providers of the update cannot be held liable for what happens following the download and installation. Users can install at their own risk. It is best to understand the instructions thoroughly before doing anything.

Instructions for flashing:

1. Connect the Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini to the computer. Use a USB cable.

2. Transfer the CyanogenMod 11 and Google Apps package downloaded to the microSD card. Do not extract any of the packages yet.

3. Disconnect the handset and turn it off.

4. Reboot the Samsung Galaxy S3 Mini. Do this by pressing and holding the "volume up + home + power" keys simultaneously. Wait until the Samsung logo appears.

5. When in recovery mode, do the Android backup. Select "backup and restore > backup." This will allow the users to restore their ROM anytime they want.

6. Do a factory reset. This will wipe all data and cache. Specifically, choose "wipe data/factory reset" and "wipe cache partition." Then go to "advanced > wipe Dalvik cache."

7. Install the CyanogenMod 11. Do this by choosing "install zip from SD card > choose zip from SD card > look for the firmware > confirm installation." Do the same for the Google Apps package.

8. Follow installation finishes, return to the main menu and choose "reboot system now."

It may take a couple of minutes but the device should be good to go.