Google is already going for the version 4.2 Jelly Bean Android, however, manufacturers are still slightly behind. Samsung, for example, although it is one of the most advanced, is now about to update its leading devices to Android 4.1.2. If yesterday we were talking about the update for the Samsung Galaxy S3, now is the time to Galaxy S2, whose test ROM has already been leaked, and can be tested by all those users eager for new, more updated functions. Of course, with caution.
From here, we strongly recommend that only advanced users who know what you are doing take the risk of implementing the ROM installation procedure with the new version. 4.1.2 Android Jelly Bean, which comes to the Galaxy S2 with some important new features. And if there's one thing Samsung stands out for, it's that, despite not being as up-to-date as Google's own devices, the Nexus, it does offer specific applications developed by the South Korean company's internal team, applications that, by the way, are often imitated by those in Mountain View afterwards.
Among other things, the most characteristic news that this version brings 4.1.2 Android Jelly Bean to the new Galaxy S2 are greater screen agility, with smoother, more fluid movements and improved stability, all thanks to Google's Project Butter. In addition, the new user interface that the Galaxy S3 and Galaxy Note 2 already have, the TouchWiz Nature. From the Galaxy S3 it also inherits the new screen widgets, in addition to functions such as Direct Call, Smart Stay and Pop-Up Play. They include, along with all this, the new notification bar, the two home screen modes, and the service Google Now.
However, it should be emphasized that this new version, which is already available, is only a preview of the official version that will arrive later directly from Samsung. This version will not be released through Kies or any other official means, so the version that comes out later will most likely have some improved features or fixed bugs that were found in this one. We expect it to arrive soon, too. December It could be a good month for this update to see the light of day. On the page of SamMobile You will find all the information on how to update your Galaxy S2 and the descarga archive to carry out the process.
Essential requirements and precautions
Before touching anything, confirm a series of key points to minimize risks. It is mandatory backup complete information about your data and, especially, about the EFS folder (contains unique device information such as the IMEI). This folder is irreplaceable: protect it on your PC and in the cloud.
Keep the battery above 80%, use a PC with administrator permission and install the Samsung drivers. If Odin doesn't detect the device, installing Kies usually resolves the drivers (then close Kies before flashing). Activate USB debugging in Settings > Applications > Development.
Keep in mind that you could lose all data and some test builds may include inconsistencies. If your phone was code-jailbroken, flashing a test ROM may network lock reappears; in that case you will have to enter the code again or use tools like Galaxy Sim Unlock.
If your current system is very old, unstable or you are even facing a soft-brick, flashing with Odin is an effective way to recover the terminal.
Update options: OTA/Kies or installation with Odin
If you are using official firmware, in many markets the update to Android 4.1.2 can arrive via OTA or through software Samsung Kies. Go to Settings > About phone > Software update. Make sure you have Stable WiFi, free space enough and battery.
For those who prefer the manual method with Odin (recommended only for advanced users), these are the summarized steps that integrate everything you need:
- Prepare the files: Download the test ROM (e.g. I9100XXLSJ) and unzip the ZIP until you get the .tar. Check that in Odin the box Division beene unchecked.
- Assign each file: en PDA select CODE_I9100XXLSJ.tar; in PHONE add MODEM_I9100XXLS6.tar; in CSC choose CSC_HOME_OXX_I9100OXXLS1.tar.
- Download Mode: turn off your cell phone and come in with Volume Down + Home + Power. Confirm the prompt screen, connect the USB cable and wait for Odin to display ID: COM in blue or green (device recognized).
- Flashes: pulsa Start and don't disconnect anything until you see PASSThe phone will restart automatically.
- Recommended wipes: For a clean install, power off, boot into Recovery with Volume up + Home + Power and run Wipe data / Factory reset y Wipe cache partitionIf something gets stuck, remove and replace the battery and repeat.
After flashing, you will experience a much smoother experience thanks to Project Butter, new notifications expandable, horizontal orientation native on the home screen, fixes since 4.1.1 and the arrival of Google Now. On Samsung's side, they add TouchWiz Nature UX, widgets of the Galaxy S3, improvements of camera, lock screen with shortcuts, toggles in the status bar and services like S Cloud. Multi-window on higher-end models is not part of the S2 package.
Root, Advanced Recovery and Cooked ROMs (optional)
If you also want root permissions or with a Advanced Recovery, you can flash via Odin a compatible package like PhilZ CWM in .tar format by placing it in PDA Just like the ROM. Once booted, copy the corresponding signed ZIP to the phone's storage and install it from Recovery with the “install zip from sdcard” option. This combo facilitates nandroid backups, granular wipes, and advanced utilities.
In the field of Cooked ROMs, many based on 4.1.2 offer customization and performance. A popular example is Omega (e.g. Omega v20.1), based on XWLSD PhilZ cwm6 kernel y XXLS8 modem. Its installation is simple: save the ZIP in memory, start in Recovery, perform the following steps: wipes recommended and install “install zip from sdcard”. Other alternatives such as VanillaRootBox provide a closer approach to AOSP. If you detect anomalous behavior (such as occasional failures of tethering in certain builds), trying a different modem or a different build usually resolves it.
Whichever way you choose (OTA/Kies, Odin or cooked ROM), always prioritize the backup, stability and verify the exact model (I9100) before flashing. With proper preparation, the Galaxy S2 gains a second life with Jelly Bean, adding fluidity, Samsung utilities, and smart features that make it much more usable today.
