Newbie Question: Huawei Mediapad M1 - Upgrading Android Version

[Chris Pinkq]

I apologise but I have to start somewhere, I've looked on Google but I don't think I know how to frame the search.

What is the situation with a generic Android device?
This tablet runs Android 4.2.2 which I understand is fairly ancient.

There seems to be nothing on it about upgrades. So questions;
1. Is is possible to upgrade the version of Android?
2. Is this desirable? (and does it have any security benefits?
3. If I got 2 'yes' then how do I do it?
4. If no then is the OS in ROM?

In the interests of understanding the platform, is this a generic thing? ie is it generally possible and desirable to run the latest possible Android version on a given device.

Many thanks for you patience (should you show any ;-)

 

[Dannydet]

This came out in 2014 and I don't think they will update it at all. Many don't, and I don't think there's a Rom for it either.

 

[Chris Pinkq]

The OS is in ROM?

 

[Dannydet]

The Os is the Android factory image

 

[psionandy]

Unlike Window (or Linux PCs) android is Incredibly device specific.

Even though the OS isn't strictly stored in a ROM chip, its often refered to as a 'Rom' by android users.


If you have an android versions for a Samsung S5 and try to install it on an s6 for example, you'll end up with a paperweight. In fact its worse than that, because it may not even work on a slightly different model of s5

So, you really want the manufacturer to release an updated rom for your device.

Unfortunately if they didn't things get tricky.

If a device is popular, then maybe a group of fans will work and create a custom rom. However you really need to make sure you read all the instructions with it, and accept the risk that this may break things on your device (ie things might not work properly), you warranty will be voided, and if it completely breaks , then you are on your own when it comes to fixing it.

Proceed with extreme caution.

If its a completely generic device, your chance of success in doing this is virtaully zero...

If its for a Huawei device, then you'd have plenty of research and reading to do.