ADB Sideload: What is it and how do I use it?
You have probably heard the term "ADB Sideload" and wondered what it is and how you use it. In this practical tip you will find answers to your questions.
ADB Sideload - what is it?
ADB (Android Debug Bridge) Sideload stands for an Android function in the AOSP (Android Open Source Project) - Recovery. The tool is particularly interesting for Android developers.
- Since Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, ADB Sideload has been part of AOSP recovery.
- ADB Sideload can save a lot of time. For example, you can transfer ZIP files to your smartphone with a single command using a USB cable and then use them to install a ROM, for example.
- If you want to install a custom ROM or the latest firmware version of Android, you do not have to unlock the boot loader with the ADB sideload method. This also saves you a lot of time.
- With the command "adb sideload /pfad/rom.zip" the package of the ROM to be installed is transferred to the memory of the connected Android device. The installation then works automatically.
How to use ADB Sideload
We will show you how you can use ADB Sideload using an example. An official update with the ADB sideload method is to be installed.
- First you need to download and install the Android SDK. You also need the desired update as a ZIP file on your computer. It is best to rename the file to "update.zip".
- Now activate USB debugging under "Settings -> Developer options". and connect the smartphone to the PC via USB cable.
- Start the command prompt on the PC, enter the command "adb devices" and confirm. A number code should appear.
- Now enter the command "adb reboot recovery" and confirm again. The device now restarts in recovery mode. You can recognize the mode by the fact that the Android is lying on its back.
- Press the [POWER] + [VOL +] buttons on the Android phone at the same time if a selection menu appears. Use the volume keys to navigate to "Install Update from adb". Confirm the selection by pressing the power button.
- In Windows Explorer, open the folder in which the "update.zip" file is located. Right-click and hold the [SHIFT] key on the file and select "Open command prompt here ..".
- In the command prompt window that is now open, enter the command "adb sideload update.zip" and confirm. The file is then loaded onto your Android smartphone. After a successful transfer, the installation routine is started automatically.
- If the message "Install from ADB complete" appears, reboot the system with the command "reboot system now".
Another practical tip will clarify whether you can flash ZIPs without custom recovery.