How to Upgrade your Android Powered G1, by Force
This “how to” type article is intended for those of you that just can’t wait for your Android powered G1 device to update itself automatically. The simple truth of the matter is that the Android RC29 update has yet to reach some G1 owners, and the more technically inclined of us just can’t wait any more. Luckily enough, there is a method that you can employ so as to push things along.
Since we are not ones to leave sleeping dogs lie, here are the step by step instructions that you must follow in order to forcefully update your G1. Make sure to follow them exactly!
1. Boot up your computer, get your G1 phone and the microSD card that came bundled with the phone. Make sure that your G1 device is fully charged, or at least at 80% battery capacity (this aspect is critical).
This is when you need to consider your actions very carefully. If you get things right, you will have an updated Android; if you get them wrong, you may very well render your G1 useless. The chances of turning your expensive G1 into a worthless piece of junk are minor, but just because it is a one in a million shot, it does not mean the risk isn’t real. If you have any doubts, stop now and wait for the automated update message from T-Mobile.
2. Go online and download the RC 29 update file. You can do so by clicking here.
3. Once the download is over, rename the downloaded file. The name that you should give it is update.zip
4. Copy update.zip to the root directory of your microSD. Make sure you do it right; the file should be copied to the base level of your microSD, not in some folder.
5. Turn off your G1 device. Press “Power” to get the desired effect. If the device is connected to your computer, disconnect it first (chances are it will be if you have accessed the microSD through the G1’s data cable).
6. Press “Power” and “Home” simultaneously to turn the G1 phone back on. Press “Alt” and “L” yet again simultaneously when you notice the “Triangle” icon. Press “Alt” and “S” simultaneously, when the display shows a piece of yellow colored text.
7. Instructions will be displayed on the screen. Follow them exactly!
8. When the update has finished and you must reboot the G1, press “Home” and “Back” at the same time. Once the Android will reboot (don’t do anything to interfere with the reboot) you will be able to enjoy the RC29 update.
Note that if you have issues with mounting the microSD card (the one that came with the G1), then you should try using another card.
Since we are not ones to leave sleeping dogs lie, here are the step by step instructions that you must follow in order to forcefully update your G1. Make sure to follow them exactly!
1. Boot up your computer, get your G1 phone and the microSD card that came bundled with the phone. Make sure that your G1 device is fully charged, or at least at 80% battery capacity (this aspect is critical).
This is when you need to consider your actions very carefully. If you get things right, you will have an updated Android; if you get them wrong, you may very well render your G1 useless. The chances of turning your expensive G1 into a worthless piece of junk are minor, but just because it is a one in a million shot, it does not mean the risk isn’t real. If you have any doubts, stop now and wait for the automated update message from T-Mobile.
2. Go online and download the RC 29 update file. You can do so by clicking here.
3. Once the download is over, rename the downloaded file. The name that you should give it is update.zip
4. Copy update.zip to the root directory of your microSD. Make sure you do it right; the file should be copied to the base level of your microSD, not in some folder.
5. Turn off your G1 device. Press “Power” to get the desired effect. If the device is connected to your computer, disconnect it first (chances are it will be if you have accessed the microSD through the G1’s data cable).
6. Press “Power” and “Home” simultaneously to turn the G1 phone back on. Press “Alt” and “L” yet again simultaneously when you notice the “Triangle” icon. Press “Alt” and “S” simultaneously, when the display shows a piece of yellow colored text.
7. Instructions will be displayed on the screen. Follow them exactly!
8. When the update has finished and you must reboot the G1, press “Home” and “Back” at the same time. Once the Android will reboot (don’t do anything to interfere with the reboot) you will be able to enjoy the RC29 update.
Note that if you have issues with mounting the microSD card (the one that came with the G1), then you should try using another card.
