Hey guys! Let's dive into a topic that many HTC Desire 820 owners have been wondering about: the possibility of updating to Android 7. This phone, released a while back, has a special place in many hearts, but the question of whether it ever received the Android 7 update is a bit complicated. So, let's break it down and see what the real deal is.

The Official Stance

First off, officially, the HTC Desire 820 did not receive an official Android 7 Nougat update. When it was released, it came with Android 4.4.2 KitKat, and it was later updated to Android 6.0 Marshmallow. Sadly, the line stopped there. HTC never rolled out an official Android 7 update for this device. For many users, this was a disappointment, as Android 7 brought several improvements and new features that could have enhanced the phone's performance and user experience.

However, that's not the end of the story. The beauty of Android lies in its open-source nature, which opens the door to custom ROMs. So, while there's no official update, the Android community has stepped in to fill the gap. Custom ROMs are basically aftermarket versions of Android developed by enthusiasts. These ROMs can bring newer versions of Android to devices that manufacturers no longer support. In the case of the HTC Desire 820, several custom ROMs based on Android 7 have been developed and made available by independent developers. This means that if you're tech-savvy and willing to take a bit of a risk, you can potentially update your HTC Desire 820 to Android 7.

Why No Official Update?

You might be wondering, why didn't HTC release an official update? There are several reasons why manufacturers choose not to update older devices. One of the primary reasons is hardware limitations. Older devices might not have the processing power or memory required to run newer versions of Android smoothly. Updating them could lead to performance issues, such as lag and crashes, which would ultimately result in a poor user experience. Another factor is the cost and effort involved in developing and testing updates. Manufacturers often prioritize newer devices, as they want to focus their resources on products that will generate the most revenue. Additionally, software updates require ongoing maintenance and support, which can be a significant expense. For older devices like the HTC Desire 820, the cost of providing updates might simply outweigh the benefits.

Finally, there's the issue of fragmentation. The Android ecosystem is notorious for its fragmentation, with many devices running different versions of the operating system. This makes it challenging for developers to create apps that work seamlessly across all devices. Manufacturers often want to encourage users to upgrade to newer devices to reduce fragmentation and ensure a more consistent user experience. By not providing updates for older devices, they can incentivize users to purchase newer models, which helps to drive sales and keep the ecosystem moving forward. While this might be frustrating for users who want to keep their older devices up-to-date, it's a reality of the Android ecosystem.

Diving into Custom ROMs

Okay, so you're interested in custom ROMs? Awesome! It’s like giving your HTC Desire 820 a new lease on life. But, before you jump in, there are a few things you should know.

What are Custom ROMs?

Essentially, custom ROMs are modified versions of the Android operating system. They're created by independent developers and offer a way to run newer versions of Android on older devices, add extra features, improve performance, or customize the look and feel of your phone. For devices like the HTC Desire 820, which didn't get an official Android 7 update, custom ROMs can be a lifeline. You can find ROMs based on different versions of Android, including Android 7 Nougat, Android 8 Oreo, and even newer versions. Each ROM has its own unique set of features, tweaks, and optimizations, so you can choose one that best suits your needs.

Risks and Precautions

Now, let’s keep it real: installing a custom ROM isn’t like installing an app. It’s more like performing open-heart surgery on your phone. There are risks involved, and you need to be aware of them before you proceed. First and foremost, there's always a risk of bricking your device. Bricking means that your phone becomes completely unusable, like a brick. This can happen if something goes wrong during the installation process, such as a power outage or a corrupted file. To minimize this risk, make sure you follow the instructions carefully and use a reputable ROM from a trusted developer. It's also a good idea to read reviews and feedback from other users before you install a ROM, so you can get an idea of any potential issues or bugs.

Another risk is data loss. Installing a custom ROM typically involves wiping your phone's internal storage, which means you'll lose all your apps, photos, videos, and other data. To prevent this, make sure you back up your important data before you begin. You can use a cloud storage service like Google Drive or Dropbox, or you can copy your files to your computer. It's also a good idea to create a backup of your entire phone using a custom recovery like TWRP. This will allow you to restore your phone to its previous state if something goes wrong during the installation process.

Finally, keep in mind that installing a custom ROM will void your phone's warranty. This means that if something goes wrong with your phone after you install a custom ROM, you won't be able to get it repaired for free by the manufacturer. If your phone is still under warranty, you might want to think twice before installing a custom ROM.

Finding the Right ROM

So, you're ready to take the plunge? The key is finding a reliable ROM. XDA Developers is your best friend here. It’s a treasure trove of information, custom ROMs, and helpful community members. Look for ROMs specifically designed for the HTC Desire 820. Read the forums, check user reviews, and make sure the ROM is stable and well-maintained. Pay attention to any known issues or bugs, and see if the developer is actively working on fixing them. It's also a good idea to choose a ROM that is based on a recent version of Android, as this will ensure that you have access to the latest features and security updates. Some popular custom ROMs for the HTC Desire 820 include LineageOS, Resurrection Remix, and crDroid. These ROMs are known for their stability, performance, and customization options. However, keep in mind that custom ROMs are constantly evolving, so it's always a good idea to do your research and find the one that best suits your needs.

Installation Process

Alright, let's talk about how to actually install a custom ROM on your HTC Desire 820. This is where things can get a little tricky, so pay close attention and don't skip any steps. The first thing you'll need to do is unlock your phone's bootloader. The bootloader is a software that controls the startup process of your phone. Unlocking it allows you to install custom ROMs and other modifications. The process for unlocking the bootloader varies depending on the manufacturer, but it usually involves visiting the manufacturer's website and following their instructions. Keep in mind that unlocking the bootloader will void your phone's warranty, so proceed with caution.

Once you've unlocked the bootloader, you'll need to install a custom recovery like TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project). TWRP is a recovery environment that allows you to flash custom ROMs, create backups, and perform other advanced tasks. You can download TWRP from the official website and install it using a tool like Fastboot. The installation process typically involves connecting your phone to your computer in Fastboot mode and running a few commands.

After you've installed TWRP, you're ready to flash the custom ROM. Download the ROM file from a trusted source and copy it to your phone's internal storage or SD card. Then, boot your phone into TWRP recovery mode. From there, you'll need to wipe your phone's data, cache, and Dalvik cache. This will erase all your personal data, so make sure you've created a backup beforehand. Next, select the