The Tool Desk
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Find the correct Lollipop build for your Nexus
Use the device name and variant together when selecting firmware. AOSP’s build records distinguish Nexus 7 codenames, so do not assume that one Nexus 7 image fits every model.
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| Device | Initial Android 5.0 build | AOSP build record |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 4 | LRX21T | android-5.0.0_r6.0.1 |
| Nexus 5 | LRX21O | android-5.0.0_r3.0.1 |
| Nexus 7 (flo or grouper) | LRX21P | android-5.0.0_r4.0.1 |
| Nexus 10 | LRX21P | android-5.0.0_r4.0.1 |
These are the initial Android 5.0 packages recorded by AOSP, not a guarantee that every listed package is available through every current download page. Check the exact model and codename shown for your device before downloading or applying firmware.
Android 5.0 and later Lollipop builds are different targets
If your goal is a later Lollipop version rather than the original Android 5.0 release, choose a package for that specific version and device. AOSP records LRX22C as Android 5.0.1 for Nexus 4, Nexus 5, Nexus 7 (flo), and Nexus 10. It records LRX22G as Android 5.0.2 for Nexus 7 variants and Nexus 10. Those entries do not establish a universal upgrade path across all models or intermediate builds.
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- OS: Android 5.1.1 Lollipop
Do not substitute one version’s image for another simply because both are called Lollipop. The build identifier, device model, and Nexus 7 variant must all match the package you intend to install.
Choose an installation method
| Method | Data impact | Bootloader | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Normal over-the-air update | Not established here for a particular device or build | No factory-image unlock requirement established | Use the device’s own updater if it offers the target update; availability for a specific legacy Nexus is not established here. |
| Full OTA sideload | Google says it does not require a data wipe | Google says it does not require unlocking | Restoring or updating firmware when the normal over-the-air update fails, provided you have the correct full OTA package. |
| Factory-image installation | Erases all device data | Requires bootloader unlocking, which Google warns makes the device less secure | Restoring firmware when you accept a complete wipe and follow the instructions for the exact device image. |
Google’s “Full OTA Images for Nexus and Pixel Devices” documentation describes full OTA packages as having the same effect as the corresponding factory image without requiring a wipe or bootloader unlock. Its “Factory Images for Nexus and Pixel Devices” page warns that factory-image installation erases data and that unlocking the bootloader makes the device less secure.
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How to install with the safer full OTA route
- Confirm the exact device. Check the model and variant in the device’s settings or product information; for a Nexus 7, identify its codename rather than relying on the family name alone.
- Select the matching full OTA package. Use Google’s official full OTA image documentation and match both the target build and device. Do not use a factory image in place of an OTA package.
- Read the package-specific instructions. Follow Google’s instructions for that exact model and package. The steps and prerequisites can differ, so do not apply commands or button sequences from another Nexus model.
- Apply the package using the documented sideload procedure. Google documents this route as not requiring a factory reset or bootloader unlock. Keep the device connected and follow the on-screen or official instructions until installation completes.
- Verify the installed build. After the device restarts, check its software information and confirm that it reports the intended Android version and build.
A full OTA package is particularly relevant when an ordinary over-the-air update has failed. The available documentation establishes the method’s data-preserving and bootloader-unlocked advantages, but does not establish availability of a particular package for every device and target build.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to install a factory image
Use a factory image only if you are prepared to erase the device and unlock its bootloader. Google’s factory-image documentation provides the official images and instructions; select the instructions for the exact model and image you downloaded. Do not proceed based on a generic Nexus tutorial: an incorrect image or procedure can leave the device unusable.
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- Back up the device. Factory-image installation erases all data; apps and their associated data may be removed.
- Match the image to the device and target. Confirm model, variant, and build identifier on Google’s official factory-image page.
- Review Google’s warning and model-specific procedure. Unlocking the bootloader makes the device less secure. Follow the exact instructions supplied for the selected image rather than adapting steps from another model.
- Install the image as directed by Google. Proceed only after confirming that you accept the data wipe and that you have the correct package.
- Check the result after restart. Verify the software version and build shown by the device.
Before you begin
- Confirm the full model and variant, especially for Nexus 7.
- Decide whether you need the original Android 5.0 build or a later Lollipop build.
- Prefer a full OTA sideload if you need firmware restoration without a factory wipe or bootloader unlock and the matching package is available.
- Back up important data before any factory-image installation.
- Use Google’s official package page and the instructions attached to the exact package. The build mapping alone is not a complete installation transcript.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
