What is an Android Rom?

[NoobWonder]

I have a rooted Galaxy Note 3 and I have recently heard about roms. What are they and what do they do?

 

[lunatic59]

A "ROM" stands for Read Only Memory, which is a misnomer for the flash memory in smartphones. What the term "rom" represents is a collection of files that are flashed to the phone's static memory that encompass the operating system, kernel and radio drivers that make the thing work. A custom rom will replace whatever version of Android your phone shipped with providing you with extra features, a more current version or customization options not in the original ... or any combination of those. It also is not usually loaded with carrier based apps that many consider bloat.

Just a note that you must use a rom specifically made for your EXACT model of phone or you could run the risk of bricking it. A 'soft' brick is usually recoverable to an operating state. A hard brick is a $600 doorstop.

 

[kate]

Some more info for you:

http://androidforums.com/faqs/617220-youve-went-rooted-phone-now-what.html

http://androidforums.com/faqs/443075-root-terminology.html

Here is a link to the Note 3 forum:
Galaxy Note 3 - Android Forums

There you can find an All Things Root subforum (depending on your carrier) for your phone which has information about and available ROMs you can use.

 

[Italo]

A ROM can be just the change you're looking for if you don't like the manufacturer/carrier version of Android on your phone. You will likely lose all of the TouchWiz features/bloat, as well as the carrier bloat. Do your research before attempting anything, and be sure to make a backup first.