The Galaxy Tablet S2 9.7 models with the model numbers SM-T810 and SM-T815 are now eligible for an upgrade to Android 7.1 Nougat through the latest LineageOS release. Following the discontinuation of CyanogenMod, LineageOS aims to rejuvenate devices abandoned by manufacturers and deprived of ongoing software updates.
The Galaxy Tab S2 was introduced by Samsung approximately two years ago with two variations – the 8.0 and 9.7-inch models. The SM-T810 and SM-T815 belong to the 9.7-inch category, with the former supporting only WiFi connectivity, while the latter supports both 3G/LTE and WiFi functionalities. Powered by an Exynos 5433 CPU and Mali-T760 MP6 GPU, the Galaxy Tab S2 features 3 GB of RAM and storage choices of 32 GB and 64 GB. Initially operating on Android Lollipop, Samsung subsequently updated the Tab S2 to Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow, marking the conclusion of official Android updates for this device after the Marshmallow version.
We previously shared guides on CyanogenMod 14 and CyanogenMod 14.1, both based on Android Nougat, for the Galaxy Tablet S2 9.7. Presently, LineageOS, the successor to CyanogenMod, is available for the Tab S2. We will walk you through the process of installing this operating system after examining its current functionalities and limitations.
While the LineageOS firmware for Galaxy Tab S2 is still under development, it continues to undergo enhancements. Despite ongoing refinements, there are identified issues, such as low audio volume input and video streaming buffering concerns, along with compatibility hiccups with Netflix. If these limitations do not significantly impact your usage, you may appreciate this software offering as it provides access to the latest version of Android available to date.
To install this firmware on your Galaxy Tab S2 models SM-T810 or SM-T815, you must have a custom recovery like TWRP and adhere to specific steps. Ensure to review the necessary preparations before commencing the installation process to achieve successful results.
- Before you proceed, ensure to back up all data on your device. Only flash the provided files on the designated device. Verify the model number in Settings > About device. Charge your phone to at least 50% battery level to prevent interruption during the flashing process. Strictly adhere to all instructions to ensure a successful outcome.
Before proceeding with the ROM flashing process, it is essential to conduct a factory reset, necessitating the backup of critical data such as contacts, call logs, SMS messages, and multimedia files. It should be noted that flashing a custom ROM is not endorsed by device manufacturers and is a custom procedure. In the event of any unforeseen issues, neither TechBeasts nor the ROM developer or device manufacturer can be held accountable. It is important to recognize that all actions are undertaken at your own risk.
Galaxy Tablet S2 to Nougat Power with LineageOS Upgrade – Guide to install
- Ensure your phone has TWRP recovery installed.
- Download the corresponding ROM for your device: T815 lineage-14.1-20170127-UNOFFICIAL-gts210ltexx.zip | T810 lineage-14.1-20170127-UNOFFICIAL-gts210wifi.zip
- Copy the downloaded ROM to your phone’s internal or external storage.
- Download Google GApps.zip for Android Nougat and save it to your phone’s internal or external storage.
- Download SuperSU Addon.zip and transfer it to your Tab S2’s storage.
- Boot your Tab S2 9.7 into TWRP recovery by powering off, then pressing and holding Power + Volume Down to access recovery mode.
- In TWRP recovery, select Wipe > perform a factory data reset before flashing the ROM.
- In TWRP recovery, tap Install > locate the ROM.zip file, select it, swipe to confirm flash, and flash the ROM.
- After flashing the ROM, return to the TWRP main menu and similarly flash the GApps.zip file as the ROM. Then, flash the SuperSU.zip file.
- In the TWRP home screen, tap Reboot > System to restart.
- Your Tab S2 9.7 will now boot into the newly installed Android 7.0 Nougat.