Can You Update Android if Rooted? Understanding the Limitations

Rooting an Android device can provide users with enhanced control and customization options. However, it also raises questions about the feasibility of updating the Android operating system on a rooted device. The answer to this question is straightforward: you cannot update a rooted phone using the standard method. Instead, you need to use alternative tools like Samsung Kies or Mobile Odin Pro to flash the new Android version, but this process comes at the cost of losing root access. Once the update is complete, you will need to reroot your device.

Understanding the Limitations of Rooted Devices

Rooting a device grants users elevated privileges, allowing them to modify system files and settings. This level of access can be beneficial for power users who want to customize their devices extensively. However, it also means that the standard update mechanism, which relies on the device’s original firmware, cannot function properly. The modified system files and settings introduced by rooting can interfere with the update process, leading to failure or instability.

Using Alternative Tools for Updates

To update a rooted device, you need to use specialized tools designed for this purpose. Samsung Kies and Mobile Odin Pro are two popular options that can help you flash the new Android version. These tools bypass the standard update mechanism and directly interact with the device’s firmware, allowing you to update your rooted device successfully. However, as mentioned earlier, this process will remove root access, and you will need to reroot your device after the update.

Rerooting After the Update

After updating your rooted device using Kies or Odin Pro, you will need to reroot it to regain the elevated privileges. This process typically involves reinstalling the rooting software and following the same steps you used initially to root your device. It is essential to ensure that you use a compatible rooting method to avoid any conflicts with the newly updated firmware.