Motorola is still updating its Moto series to the latest Android 6.0 Marshmallow, but the inquisitive ones can get the new software right away. CyanogenMod released all-new CM13 custom ROM based on Android Marshmallow for a select few devices and Moto G (Gen 3) is one of them. The new software is for those who cannot wait for the official OTA or those who are rooted to run a customised OS on their devices.

CyanogenMod has noted that the CM13 is still an experimental build and bugs are expected to hinder the performance of the device. A more stable version of the CM13 is not due until January, the ROM maker revealed. But those who are too keen on trying out the new OS can certainly proceed with caution.

Before you proceed with the installation of CM13 custom ROM on your Moto G (2015), here are a few things you must remember.

  •         The CM13 ROM is for Moto G (2015) models. Trying on other devices can cause irreparable damage.
  •          Installing custom ROM will void manufacturer warranty and prevent from getting any future updates. Flashing with stock ROM will revert the warranty status and OTA updates.
  •          Ensure the device is rooted before installing custom ROM.
  •          Ensure your data on the device is backed up. Installing custom ROM wipes data clean on the device.
  •          Make sure the necessary USB drivers are installed on the PC.
  •          Ensure the battery on the device is at least 80 percent to avoid unexpected shutdown during the installation.

[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.]

Steps to download and install CM13 on Moto G 2015 edition

Step 1: Download Android 6.0 Marshmallow CM13 ROM and Google Apps for Moto G (Gen 3) on your computer.

Step 2: Connect your Moto G to PC via USB cable.

Step 3: Copy the downloaded Android 6.0 ROM zip and GApps zip files to phone in the phone memory > SD card root folder.

Step 4: Disconnect the phone from PC and turn it off.

Step 5: Restart the device in Recovery Mode. To do so, press and hold Volume Up and Power buttons together.

Step 6: In ClockworkMod Recovery, select "wipe data/factory reset. Use volume keys to navigate and Power button to select.

Step 7: Perform a cache wipe by choosing "wipe cache partition" and "wipe dalvik cache" too by going into CWM recovery > Advanced.

Step 8: Install custom ROM. To do so go back to main recovery screen and select install zip from SD card.

Step 9: Select "Choose zip from sdcard" then go to Android ROM .zip file in SD card and initiate the installation process. Repeat the same process to install Google Apps.

Step 10: After successfully installing the ROM, go to "+++++Go Back+++++" and reboot the device.

Note: First time reboot will take up to 5 minutes, so be patient and do not press any buttons or try restarting. After the device has restarted, it will be running Android 6.0 CM13 Marshmallow custom ROM. You can verify the same by going into the Settings > About Phone.

[Credit: Team Android]