Moto G4 and G4 Plus taste Android 7.1 Nougat via CyanogenMod 14.1 ROM: How to install

A comprehensive guide to install Android 7.1 Nougat update on Moto G4 or G4 Plus via CM14.1 ROM.

Moto G4 Plus
Moto G4 and G4 Plus taste Android 7.1 Nougat via CyanogenMod 14.1 ROM

Motorola Moto G4 and G4 Plus users can now enjoy the latest Android 7.1 update on their smartphone, thanks to the industrious CyanogenMod developers for releasing the CyanogenMod 14.1 ROM. Those who have already tried the soak test update for Android 7.0 Nougat on their Moto G4 devices can now install the Android 7.1 upgrade for an improved user experience with CM14.1 ROM.

Folks at XDA have confirmed that the current release (v14.1) of CyanogenMod ROM for Nougat update is still a work in progress and several CM features are still missing in the ROM. Besides, there seems to be a known issue with fingerprint enrolment if you are upgrading to CM14.1 ROM over M based ROMs.

Consequently, users are advised to install the Android Nougat soak test update before installing this ROM as it will automatically fix the fingerprint issues. Furthermore, it is highly-recommended to perform a clean install or fresh flash of the CM14.1 ROM to avoid any compatibility issues or permanently bricking the device.

As the CM14.1 ROM is still under alpha stage of development, it may harbour a few untested bugs or broken features. A few of the documented issues and limitations with this ROM are listed below for your convenience:

  • No Moto actions
  • Photo gallery will force close if accessed from camera
  • VoLTE is still not functional
  • Battery icons are system-defined and cannot be changed. However, text mode works just fine.
  • Video recording with native app doesn't work. It is recommended to use footej/Cameringo lite as the substitute for this purpose.
  • Hotspots do not work either.

Note: Forthcoming updates are expected to fix these shortcomings with the CyanogenMod ROM. Installing custom ROMs could lead to bricking and/or voiding the hardware warranty of your device. IBTimes SG will not be held liable for any damage caused to the device during or after the installation of custom ROMs. Users are advised to proceed at their own risk.

The Moto G4 models compatible with this ROM include all of those which start with the series number XT16xx while the folks at XDA have confirmed that the ROM works absolutely fine with the XT1643 variant.

Prerequisites

  • Ensure the latest USB drivers for Moto G4/G4 Plus are installed on your computer
  • Make sure that the phone has at least 70% battery charge before you proceed
  • Enable USB debugging by navigating to Menu > Settings > Applications and then tapping on Developer Options.
  • Verify that your Moto phone is rooted with TWRP or CWM recovery installed

Downloads Required

TWRP recovery 3.0.2.0 for Moto G4

Android 7.1 CyanogenMod 14.1 ROM

Google Apps for Android 7.1 Nougat

Steps to install Android 7.1 Nougat on Moto G4/G4 Plus via CyanogenMod 14.1 ROM

If installing from stock or other custom ROMs:

  • Connect your Moto G4/G4 Plus to the computer via USB cable and download the ROM zip file to the computer.
  • Copy the downloaded ROM zip file to the SD card on your phone.
  • Backup important data and settings on the device to an external storage or SD card.
  • Reboot the phone into TWRP recovery mode.
  • Perform Format or Wipe system, wipe cache, dalvik and data.
  • Browse and select the ROM file after hitting the Install button via recovery menu.
  • Follow the onscreen instructions and wait until the ROM is successfully installed. Return to the recovery main menu. Click Install and choose the Gapps zip file.
  • Follow the onscreen instructions to complete installing Google Apps and then reboot the device when prompted.

If upgrading from previous build:

  • Ensure your phone is connected to the computer via USB cable and download the ROM zip file to the computer.
  • Copy the downloaded ROM zip file to your phone's SD card.
  • Reboot the phone in TWRP recovery mode.
  • Perform Format/Wipe only cache and then wipe the Dalvik Cache.
  • Browse and select the ROM file after hitting the Install button via recovery menu.
  • Follow the onscreen instructions and wait until the ROM is successfully installed. Return to the recovery main menu. Click Install and choose the Gapps zip file.
  • Follow the onscreen instructions to complete installing Google Apps and then reboot the device when prompted.

[Source: XDA]

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