1. Introduction to Custom ROMs
Custom ROMs are Android operating system versions that have been tweaked to include various enhancements and features that go beyond the ones available in the stock version. They are created by independent developers and may offer better performance, additional features, or a completely new user interface. Custom ROMs are particularly attractive to those who want to try out the latest Android versions or those features that have not been implemented in the stock firmware of their device.
2. Why Install a Custom ROM?
Performance Enhancements: Custom ROMs can rid the device of unwanted applications and adjust system settings to optimize performance and improve battery life.
Access to Latest Android Versions: Custom ROMs can bring the latest Android versions and security patches to devices no longer under official support.
Customization: Most custom ROMs come with all sorts of customization options, which users can use to change all aspects of their device interface.
Additional Features: Certain custom ROMs boast features or enhancements not offered officially, such as advanced privacy settings, multitasking improvements, or even better gaming performance.
3. Prepping Your OPPO F1s for the Custom ROM Installation
Before hitting any installation buttons for the custom ROM on your OPPO F1s, certain preparations must be set up on the device. These will ensure a flawless and successful installation. Follow these steps:
3.1 Back Up Your Data
Why Backup? Since installing a custom ROM will wipe your device’s data, it becomes utterly necessary to back up your files, contacts, and settings.
How to Backup:
Using Built-in Tools: There are backup options in the settings of your OPPO F1s to back up data via your Google account.
Third-Party Applications: Apps like Titanium Backup or Helium offer more comprehensive backup services.
Manual Backup: Copy your essential files and photos onto a computer or cloud storage.
3.2 Charging of the Device
Charge your OPPO F1s to a full battery or at least the device should have battery levels of around 70-80% to avert interruptions during the installation.
3.3 Unlock the Bootloader
Unlocking Bootloader: The bootloader has to be unlocked to enable custom ROM installation or any kind of modifications.
Unlocking Bootloader:
Enable Developer Options: Go to Settings > About Phone and keep tapping seven times on Build Number to enable Developer Options.
Enable OEM Unlocking: Go to Settings > Developer Options and click inside the checkbox to enable OEM Unlocking.
Unlock Bootloader: Run an unlock tool or command script given by the ROM developer for particular devices. Different devices have different unlock processes and would probably require fastboot commands to unlock.
3.4 Install Custom Recovery
Why Custom Recovery? A custom recovery, such as TWRP, is necessary to flash custom ROMs and carry out other advanced operations.
Install TWRP:
Download TWRP: Get the TWRP image for OPPO F1s from either the official TWRP site or some trusted source.
Boot Into Fastboot Mode: Power off the device, then press and hold the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously.
Flash TWRP: Join device to PC, then input fastboot flash recovery <twrp-image-file> in your command starting to flash TWRP.
4. Locating and Installing Custom ROMs
Your OPPO F1s being ready, the custom ROM will now be located and installed:
4.1 Finding a Suitable Custom ROM
Where to Find Custom ROMs:
– XDA Developers Forum: A popular community for custom ROMs and development.
– Official ROM Websites: Some custom ROM developers have their websites or forums where they share ROMs.
– ROM Repository Apps: Apps like ROM Manager may list custom ROMs for your device.
Popular Custom ROMs for OPPO F1s:
– LineageOS: Known for its stability and performance.
– Pixel Experience: Provides a pure Android experience similar to Google Pixel devices.
– AOSP: Stock Android experience with much more customization.
4.2 Installing a Custom ROM
Steps to Install:
– Download ROM: Download the ROM zip file and any additional files required (might be GApps for Google services).
– Transfer Files: Copy the ROM zip file as well as any other files to the internal storage or SD card on your device.
– Boot into TWRP Recovery: Power off the device and boot into recovery mode by pressing and holding Volume Up and Power buttons.
Wipe Data: In TWRP, go to Wipe and select Advanced Wipe. Choose to wipe Dalvik/ART Cache, System, Data, and Cache.
Flash ROM: Go to Install, select the ROM zip file, and swipe to confirm. Repeat for any other files like GApps.
Reboot System: After flashing, select Reboot > System to boot into the new ROM.
Note: The first boot may be longer than usual while the ROM is initialized.
5. Post Installation
A few things need to be taken care of once the custom ROM is installed:
5.1 Restore Data
Restore Backup: Use whatever tools/apps you used before to restore your data.
5.2 Configure Settings
Adjust Settings: Customize the ROM settings to your own liking: things like display options, notifications, and accounts.
5.3 Update ROM
Check for Updates: Make sure your custom ROM gets regular updates for bug fixes and newer features. Usually, updates can also be installed using TWRP following the same flashing procedure.
6. Troubleshooting/Common Issues
Once in a while, installing a custom ROM can mess things up. Here’s how to fix common problems:
6.1 Boot Loops
Issue: A boot loop starts and the device does not finish starting.
Solution:
Wipe Cache and Dalvik Cache: Then, boot into TWRP and wipe caches.
Reflash ROM: Then try to reflash the ROM or install a different version.
Restore Backup: In case of a backup, it can be restored to switch back to a stable state.
6.2 Performance Issues
Issue: Slow performance or instability after installing the ROM
Solution:
Reinstall ROM: Reflash the ROM for a clean installation.
Check for Compatibility: Check whether the ROM is compatible with your specific model of OPPO F1s.
Install Additional Fixes: Some ROMs require the installation of additional patches or fixes to be of perfect performance.
6.3 Feature Limitations
Issue: Some features or functionalities are lacking or nonfunctional.
Solution:
Check ROM Documentation: Check the ROM’s documentation or community forums about supported features and known issues.
Contact Developers: Reach out to the ROM developers for support or to file a bug report.
7. Benefits and Risks of Custom ROMs
7.1 Benefits
Enhanced Performance: Custom ROMs can have better performance and battery life since they usually remove unnecessary bloatware.
Latest Features: Most custom ROMs have the latest Android features and security patches.
Customization: One can alter almost every feature of the UI and experience.
Community Support: Active forums and communities where you can get support and share experiences.
7.2 Risks
Warranty Void: A custom ROM may void the warranty on your device.
Stability Issues: Some custom ROMs could be unstable or buggy and perform badly on the device.
Loss of Data: Data wiping is one of the steps of RAM installation, which could result in data loss if it is not backed up properly.
Security Risks: Contraindicated ROMs from untrusted sources can cause security risks. Always use ROMs from trusted developers and sources.
8. Summing Up
Custom ROMs offer more firepower to further beautify and customize your OPPO F1s with extra JavaScripts for new features, enhanced performance, and the altered kind of experience. Properly preparing your device, choosing the right ROM, and installation should unlock an entire world of possibilities for you to make your OPPO F1s into something that better suits your needs and personality.
However, because of the advantages, do keep risks in check: your warranty might be voided, and there is a high chance of instability in ROMs. Stay knowledgeable: keep backups of all your data, and choose ROMs from credible sources to minimize the negatives of enjoying custom ROMs.
If the greatest Android experience, a highly customized interface, or better performance was the priority of your list, customized ROMs for your OPPO F1s would be the things to consider. Armed with the right knowledge and adequate preparation, doing this installation on your own and enjoying it could mean more horsepower on your OPPO F1s.