Have you ever thought about making your Google Pixel 7 even better? Maybe you want it to run smoother, last longer on a single charge, or just look and feel the way you want. Custom ROMs can help you do just that. They’re like giving your phone a whole new set of clothes, and you get to pick exactly how it looks and works. Ready to see how? Let’s walk through it together.
Table of Contents
Prerequisites
This guide has been made for the Google Pixel 7 (codename: panther). It should also work on the Pixel 7 Pro, but if you’re using another device, be careful and double-check before you proceed.
What You Need:
- Android SDK Platform Tools: These tools help your computer talk to your phone. You can download them here.
- USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking: These settings allow you to make deeper changes to your phone. Turn them on by going to Settings > About phone > Tap Build number 7 times. Then go to Settings > System > Developer options and turn on USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking.
- Unlock Bootloader: This step is like opening the gate to your phone’s system. Without it, you can’t install a custom ROM.
- Backup Data: Always save a copy of everything important on your phone before starting. You don’t want to lose anything.
- Custom Recovery (TWRP): This tool will help you install the new ROM. Download TWRP Recovery for Google Pixel 7.
Installing LineageOS 21 on Google Pixel 7
LineageOS 21 is a great way to make your Pixel 7 run faster and smoother. It also gives you more control over how your phone looks and works.
Download the Necessary Files
First, download the files you need. You can find the links below:
- Download LineageOS 21 ROM
- Download TWRP Recovery for Pixel 7
Transfer Files to Your Device
After downloading, move these files to the platform-tools folder on your computer. This will make them easy to access when it’s time to install.
Boot into Fastboot Mode
Now, let’s get your phone ready. Connect your Pixel 7 to your computer, go to the platform-tools folder, type cmd
in the address bar, and hit Enter. This opens the Command Prompt. Then, type:
adb reboot bootloader
This command will restart your phone in Fastboot Mode. To make sure your phone is connected, type:
fastboot devices
If nothing shows up, you might need to install the Fastboot drivers.
Flash TWRP Recovery
TWRP is the tool that will help you install LineageOS. Use this command to flash TWRP:
fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.7.0_12-0-panther.img
Install LineageOS 21
With TWRP installed, select Install, find the LineageOS 21 ROM file, and swipe to confirm the installation. After it’s done, go back to the main menu in TWRP and select Reboot > System.
Installing EvolutionX OS on Google Pixel 7
EvolutionX OS is another option that can make your Pixel 7 faster and add some cool new features.
Download EvolutionX OS
Get the EvolutionX OS for your Pixel 7 here:
Prepare for Installation
Make sure all the necessary files, including the EvolutionX ROM, are in your platform-tools folder.
Boot into Fastboot Mode and Flash the ROM
First, reboot into Fastboot Mode using this command:
adb reboot bootloader
Then, flash the ROM:
fastboot flash rom EvolutionX_5.9_pantheon.zip
After that, reboot into Recovery Mode:
fastboot reboot recovery
Finalize Installation
In Recovery Mode, do a factory reset, then select Install and flash the EvolutionX ROM. Reboot your device once it’s done.
Installing GrapheneOS on Google Pixel 7
If privacy and security are your top concerns, GrapheneOS is a great choice for your Pixel 7.
Download and Install GrapheneOS
Download the GrapheneOS image for your Pixel 7 here:
Flash GrapheneOS
Start by booting into Fastboot Mode:
adb reboot bootloader
Then, flash the GrapheneOS image:
fastboot flash os GrapheneOS-2024.08.23.1.zip
Set Up Your Device
After installation, reboot your device and set it up. You might want to use Aurora Store to install apps without needing a Google account.
That’s it! With these steps, you can give your Google Pixel 7 a fresh start and make it work just the way you like. Each option offers something different, whether it’s more speed, better looks, or stronger privacy. Now that you know how to do it, why not give it a try? Your phone is ready when you are!