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How to install Google’s awesome Android L update right now

Published Jun 27th, 2014 10:20AM EDT
How To Install Android L
Image: Ars Technica

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Google’s I/O 2014 keynote certainly had its ups and downs earlier this week, but the clear highlight as far as we were concerned was Android L. Google’s next Android build, likely named Android 5.0, will feature a number of key changes. For one thing, there are some huge performance enhancements coming in the next major release of Android, though we’ve already told you how to get many of the benefits on your phone right now.

FROM EARLIER: How to give your phone the huge performance boost coming to Android L

Android L also includes a big user interface redesign that focuses on Google’s new “material design.” It’s a fresh new look for Android that most users will never get to fully enjoy thanks to vendor customizations like Samsung’s TouchWiz and HTC’s Sense, but it’s beautiful and well designed.

Google won’t release Android L to the general public for some time yet, but the developer preview is already available and thanks to some handiwork from the hackers on the XDA Developers forum, anyone can install it right now.

All you’ll need is a rooted Nexus 5 and some time on your hands. You’ll also need to be somewhat savvy — this procedure is not for beginners and missteps can end up doing real damage to your phone.

Still interested? Phone Arena has a good guide along with links to all the files you need, and their post is linked below in our source section.

Zach Epstein
Zach Epstein Executive Editor

Zach Epstein has been the Executive Editor at BGR for more than 10 years. He manages BGR’s editorial team and ensures that best practices are adhered to. He also oversees the Ecommerce team and directs the daily flow of all content. Zach first joined BGR in 2007 as a Staff Writer covering business, technology, and entertainment.

His work has been quoted by countless top news organizations, and he was recently named one of the world's top 10 “power mobile influencers” by Forbes. Prior to BGR, Zach worked as an executive in marketing and business development with two private telcos.