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[Representational Image] Moto G (2015) aka G3 gets Android Nougat via CyanogenMod CM 14.1 custom ROM [How to install] In Picture: Android Nougat logoAndroid via Twitter

In October, Motorola announced the list of Moto series devices eligible for the new Android Nougat update. But, shockingly, the 2015 series Moto G aka Moto G3 was missing from the list, leaving many device owners furious.

As per a tie-up agreement between Google and OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), the latter is obliged to provide software update services to its devices for a minimum of 18 months. So, Moto G (2015), which was launched in July, was eligible.

Despite the huge outcry on social media platforms, Motorola has not made any official comment with regard to the Moto G (2015)'s exclusion.

On the bright side, leading custom ROM developer community CyanogenMod seems to have the heard the plea and have come up with the latest Android 7.1 Nougat-based CM 14.1 firmware to the Motorola's mid-range phone.

Moto G (2015) device owners, if interested, can install the new software by following our step-by-step tutorial provided below.

Also read: Android 7.0 Nougat released: 16 key upgrades of Google's new mobile OS update over Marshmallow

Prerequisites (things to remember before installing Custom ROM)

  • This new Android v7.1 Nougat CyanogenMod CM 14.1 custom ROM has to be installed on Motorola Moto G (2015) models -- XT1540, XT1541, XT1542, XT1543, XT1544, XT1548 and XT1550 only, if tried on other devices, it might brick them [to check your device model: Go to Settings >> About phone >> model number]
  • Though installing the custom ROM improves the device's performance and UI experiences, it makes the company warranty void; the company will no longer be liable to provide updates in future [users can restore the warranty by flashing the device with stock-ROM].
  • Make sure the device is rooted before going ahead with custom ROM installation.
  • Installation of custom ROM requires clearing memory on the phone, so make sure to back all the data by installing Clockwork Mod (CWM) Recovery/TWRP in the smartphone.
  • Make sure USB driver is installed on the PC or else your device (Galaxy S4 LTE) will not be recognised by the computer.
  • Make sure your device has more than 80% battery, or else there is a chance of the smartphone getting temporarily bricked if the installation process is interrupted midway.

[Disclaimer: This procedure is very technical and should be performed by a person with sound knowledge of rooting (or manual software installation) Android devices. If the step-by-step installation process is not followed properly, there are chances of the smartphone getting bricked or being permanently irreparable. IBTimes India cannot be held responsible for any damage or claims from readers if the procedure does not yield the required results or if the smartphone is bricked. Hence, users are advised to proceed with caution.]

Tutorial: Step-by-step installation procedure for Android v7.1 Nougat CyanogenMod CM 14.1 custom ROM on Moto G (3rd Gen) via TWRP:

Step 1: DownloadAndroid v7.1 Nougat CyanogenMod CM 14.1 custom ROM and Google Apps on your PC

[Note: downloadable file links are provided at the bottom]

Step 2: Connect Moto G (3rd Gen) to the computer

Step 3: Place the CyanogenMod Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow into the phone's storage memory

[Note: Users are advised to paste the .zip file in the storage root folder, not in any other folder]

Step 4: Turn off device and disconnect it from PC

Step 5: Perform Recovery mode sorties by long pressing Volume (Down) + Power buttons

Step 6: Once entering the TWRP settings menu, clear phone's memory (full) by selecting 'Wipe' option. Once done, select – 'Swipe to Factory Reset' perform factory reset

Step 7: Return to TWRP settings and tap 'Install' by the selecting .Zip file in the phone's memory downloaded from PC

Step 8: Come back to TWRP menu setting to approve the installation by tapping 'Swipe to Confirm Flash'

Step 9: Flashing of the custom ROM begins and after few minutes, a message 'Successful' appears on the screen, thus completing the installation

Step 10: If faced with boot loop problem, navigate back to TWRP settings, and select 'Wipe cache/dalvik'. This procedure will help resolve any issue with regard to custom ROM installation.

Downloadable files:

Android 7.1 Nougat-based CyanogenMod CM 14.1 custom ROM for Moto G (2015): HERE

CyanogenMod Recovery: HERE

Google Apps: HERE

USB Driver: HERE

[Credits: CyanogenMod]