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Downgrade Samsung Devices from Lollipop to 4.4 KitKat
Change is constant, yet we struggle to embrace it. Agree? Let’s take Windows XP as an example. It’s the longest-lasting operating system in Microsoft’s history. Vista was a disaster, but Windows 7 was not. However, people resisted leaving their XP comfort zone, and it continues to thrive worldwide. When you invest so much time in a software version, it’s difficult to accept a major upgrade. Unlike Windows, Android makes it challenging to downgrade.
Today I will explain how to downgrade Samsung devices that have been updated to Lollipop back to KitKat 4.4. We will flash the official firmware, ensuring that the devices retain their warranty. Root access is not required.
Downloading the Firmware
To begin, back up all data on your device. Flashing your droid will wipe its system files, leaving it completely reset. Note that the contents of both internal and external SD cards will be unaffected. Additionally, ensure that your device is charged to at least 80%. After completing these steps, visit the SamMobile home page and create an account.
SamMobile is the ultimate destination for all official Samsung firmware. You can easily find firmware for your specific Samsung device by going to the firmware section on the website. For instance, if you’re looking for the firmware for the Galaxy S4, simply specify the model number, such as i9000 or i9505. Once you’ve identified the appropriate firmware, download the KitKat version zip file to your computer. Remember to choose the correct country when downloading.
Note: The free download option on SamMobile limits download speed and doesn’t allow for resuming a failed download. Upgrading to a paid pro account removes this limitation, but you can always use Google to find a mirror of the file on Mega or MediaFire.
Once you have the firmware, extract the ZIP file and store it on your computer. Also, download Odin 3.04. I find this version to be the most stable, but you can choose a different one if you prefer. If Samsung Drivers are not installed on your computer, please download and install them before proceeding.
Flashing the Firmware
Depending on the ROM, if you have just one Tar.gz file, load it in the PDA section of Odin. If there are multiple files, load each one in the respective section. Refer to the brief description on the SamMobile download page to determine if the PIT file should be included.
To put your Samsung phone in download mode, press the Volume Down+Home+Power Button until you see the downloading screen. Then, press the volume button to continue.
Once in downloading mode, connect the Samsung and wait for it to be detected. Click on the Start button. Ensure that only Auto Reboot and F. Reset Time are selected in the Odin window.
Flashing takes time, and once it’s done, the droid will be back to the KitKat factory state. Use the backup you created to restore your settings quickly.
Conclusion
Downgrading Samsung mobile phones is a breeze with Odin. This method has been successfully tested on the Samsung Galaxy S4 and S5. If you have any questions, leave them in the comments.
As Fred Humiston, the author behind Twothirds.us, I focus on providing practical and easy-to-follow guides and solutions for a variety of technical issues that people commonly face.
My articles cover a wide range of topics, from troubleshooting out-of-sync audio on TikTok and managing Firestick devices, to understanding the impact of Capcut on video quality and resolving sound issues on Hisense Roku TVs.
I also delve into more general tech tips, like how to block numbers on landlines or use VPNs without Wi-Fi. My goal is to make technology more accessible and less intimidating for everyone, whether you’re a tech novice or a seasoned user. I strive to offer clear, concise, and helpful advice to make your digital experience smoother and more enjoyable.