Android OS 1.5 ‘Cupcake’ download available – Manually install Cupcake

T-Mobile (NYSE: DT) G1 owners have been patiently waiting for T-Mobile to roll-out the Android OS 1.5 update, known as “Cupcake,” through over-the-air installations. Alas, we’ll all be waiting until at least next month before T-Mo gets the eagerly-anticipated Android OS 1.5 “Cupcake” update to the entire US. But, that doesn’t mean you have to wait on T-Mobile to get your hands on the new Android OS. The Android OS 1.5 ROM is now available through the Android Code website as a free download – and with a little elbow-grease, anyone can force-update their G1 without T-Mobile’s help.

With video-recording, homescreen widget support, stereo bluetooth and an on-screen keyboard, the Android Cupcake update is worth getting your hands on. For those of you already familiar with force-updating your G1, go ahead and do your thing (the steps are the same as we’ve outlined previously). Follow these instructions to force-update your G1 to Android OS 1.5 “Cupcake” -

1. Download the signed-kila-ota-xxxx.xxxx.zip update file
2. Rename “signed-kila-ota-xxxx.xxxx.zip” to “update.zip”
3. Copy update.zip to a freshly formatted microSD card (copy it to root)
4. Reboot and flash your G1 with the new Cupcake firmware
   • Disconnect your T-Mobile G1 from your computer if you used the data cable to access the microSD card
   • Turn off the handset by holding down the “Power” button
   • Turn it back on while holding down the “Power” (End Call) and “Home” buttons
   • When you see “Triangle” icon, open the keyboard and press “Alt” and “L” simultaneously
   • When you see some yellow text, press “Alt” and “S” simultaneously
   • Follow the on-screen instructions
   • Press “Home” and “Back” buttons simultaneously when you’re done and ready to reboot
   • The G1 will reboot as it does its thing – let it do so.
5. Enjoy Cupcake with on-screen keyboard and stereo Bluetooth support!

[Via: Phandroid]