Are you eager to experience the latest version of Android on your Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 or 8T? Look no further! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of installing the unofficial Android 14 Custom ROM on your device. From understanding the key features of Android 14 to unlocking the bootloader and installing TWRP Recovery, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and give your Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 or 8T a fresh new look with Android 14!
Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 and 8T Overview
Before we begin with the installation process, let’s take a quick look at the key specifications of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 and 8T.
The Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 and 8T were announced in August 2019. Both devices feature a 6.3-inch IPS LCD display with a screen resolution of 2340 x 1080 pixels and a pixel density of 409 PPI. The display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5.
Under the hood, the Redmi Note 8 and 8T are powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 chipset, coupled with 4/6GB of RAM and 64/128GB of internal storage. The devices also support external memory expansion up to 256GB via a microSD card.
In terms of camera capabilities, the Redmi Note 8 and 8T boast a quad-camera setup on the rear, consisting of a 48MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide-angle lens, a 2MP macro lens, and a 2MP depth sensor. On the front, there’s a 13MP selfie camera.
Connectivity options include 4G-VoLTE, GPS, Glonass, Bluetooth, Mobile Hotspot, accelerometer, ambient light sensor, gyroscope, proximity sensor, and compass/magnetometer. The devices also feature a rear-mounted fingerprint sensor.
The Redmi Note 8 and 8T originally came with Android 9.0 Pie under MIUI 10 and are powered by a 4000 mAh non-removable battery.
Android 14 and Its Features
Android 14, the fourteenth major iteration of Google’s renowned operating system, was unveiled to the public on October 4. The initial devices to receive this fresh release were the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, showcasing Google’s commitment to keeping its flagship devices at the technological forefront.
Android 14 introduces a host of enhancements and innovative features. Standout additions include a revamped lock screen, a more intuitive system share sheet, and a redesigned battery-saving mode. The update also brings drag-and-drop capabilities during app switches, Ultra HDR support for media, and visually striking Material You-themed settings toggles.
With AI-generated wallpapers and a new monochromatic theme, Android 14 not only refines functionality but also offers a refreshed aesthetic experience.
What’s Working and Known Bugs
Before proceeding with the installation process, it’s essential to be aware of what’s working in the Android 14 Custom ROM for the Redmi Note 8 and 8T, as well as any known bugs or issues that may arise.
What’s Working:
- Wi-Fi
- RIL (Radio Interface Layer)
- VoLTE (Voice over LTE)
- Mobile data
- GPS (Global Positioning System)
- Camera
- Flashlight
- Camcorder
- Bluetooth
- Fingerprint sensor
- FM radio
- Sound vibration
Known Issues:
- Hotspot may lag when trying to turn it off
Now that we have an overview of the Redmi Note 8 and 8T, the features of Android 14, and the working aspects and known bugs of the Custom ROM, let’s proceed with the installation process.
How to Install AOSP Android 14 on Redmi Note 8/8T (ginkgo/willow)
To install AOSP Android 14 on your Redmi Note 8 or 8T, follow the step-by-step instructions below. But before you begin, make sure you meet all the pre-requisites mentioned.
Pre-Requisites
Before we dive into the installation process, let’s go through the pre-requisites to ensure a smooth and successful installation.
Charge Your Phone
It’s highly recommended to charge your handset before unlocking the bootloader to avoid any interruptions during the process. Make sure your device has at least 50% battery or higher.
Download ADB and Fastboot Binaries
To proceed with the installation, you’ll need to download ADB (Android Debug Bridge) and Fastboot binaries. These tools allow you to boot your device into bootloader mode and perform various commands. If you have already installed TWRP Recovery on your Redmi Note 8/8T, you can skip this step.
To download ADB and Fastboot binaries, follow these steps:
- Visit the Android Developers website and download the platform-tools package suitable for your operating system.
- Extract the downloaded package to a convenient location on your computer.
Download Xiaomi USB Drivers
To establish a strong and successful connection between your Redmi Note 8/8T and your computer, you’ll need to download Xiaomi USB drivers. These drivers enable you to transfer files, flash files on your device, and more.
To download Xiaomi USB drivers, follow these steps:
- Visit the official Xiaomi website and navigate to the support section.
- Search for your device model (Redmi Note 8/8T) and locate the appropriate USB drivers for your operating system.
- Download and install the USB drivers on your computer.
Unlock the Bootloader of Your Phone
Before you can install custom ROMs, you need to unlock the bootloader of your Redmi Note 8/8T. Follow the steps below to unlock the bootloader:
- Go to the official Xiaomi Unlock page and click on “Unlock Now” to begin the unlocking process.
- Sign in with your Mi Account or create a new account if you don’t have one.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the unlocking process. This may involve waiting for a few days for approval.
Install TWRP Recovery
To install AOSP Android 14, you’ll need to install TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) Recovery on your Redmi Note 8/8T. TWRP Recovery allows you to flash custom ROMs and perform various system-level operations.
To install TWRP Recovery, follow these steps:
- Visit the official TWRP website and download the TWRP image file for your device.
- Copy the downloaded TWRP image file to the folder where you extracted the ADB and Fastboot binaries.
- Connect your Redmi Note 8/8T to your computer using a USB cable.
- Open a command prompt or terminal window in the ADB and Fastboot folder.
- Enter the following command to boot your device into fastboot mode:
adb reboot bootloader- Once your device is in fastboot mode, enter the following command to flash TWRP Recovery:
fastboot flash recovery twrp.imgReplace “twrp.img” with the actual name of the TWRP image file.
- After the flashing process is complete, reboot your device by entering the following command:
fastboot rebootDownload Android 14 ROM
To install Android 14 on your Redmi Note 8/8T, you’ll need to download the Android 14 ROM. Follow the steps below to download the ROM:
- Visit the official XDA Development page for Evolution X ROM (an Android 14 custom ROM) for the Redmi Note 8/8T.
- Download the latest version of the ROM to your computer.
Download Android 14 Gapps
Most third-party AOSP ROMs (including Android 14) do not include preinstalled Google apps. If you want to use Google apps on your Redmi Note 8/8T with Android 14, you’ll need to download and flash Android 14 Gapps.
To download Android 14 Gapps, follow these steps:
- Visit the Open GApps website.
- Select the package suitable for your device architecture (ARM64) and Android version (Android 11).
- Download the Gapps package to your computer.
Instructions To Install AOSP Android 14
Now that you’ve completed all the pre-requisites, it’s time to install AOSP Android 14 on your Redmi Note 8/8T. Follow the steps below:
- Connect your Redmi Note 8/8T to your computer using a USB cable.
- Make sure USB Debugging is enabled on your device. You can enable it by going to Settings > About phone > tap on MIUI version seven times to enable Developer options. Then go to Settings > Developer options > enable USB Debugging.
- Open a command prompt or terminal window in the ADB and Fastboot folder.
- Execute the following command to boot your device into recovery mode:
adb reboot recovery- In the TWRP Recovery menu, go to the “Install” section.
- Navigate to the location where you saved the Android 14 ROM and select it.
- Perform a right swipe to flash the ROM.
- If you want to install Google apps as well, go back to the “Install” section, select the Gapps ZIP file, and perform a right swipe to flash it.
- Once the flashing process is complete, reboot your device by selecting “Reboot” and then “System”.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed AOSP Android 14 on your Xiaomi Redmi Note 8/8T. The first boot may take some time, and you may need to set up your device from scratch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re looking to upgrade your Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 or 8T to the latest version of Android, installing the AOSP Android 14 Custom ROM is a great option. Despite the official Android 14 update not being available for these devices, the custom ROM brings most of the features and visual enhancements of Android 14 to your device.
However, it’s important to note that installing custom ROMs comes with some risks. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and report any bugs or stability issues to the relevant forum.
We hope this guide has been helpful in assisting you with the installation of AOSP Android 14 on your Redmi Note 8/8T. If you have any further queries, feel free to leave a comment below.
