Manually install the Jelly Bean update on your GSM Nexus S

Though only a .1 release, Jelly Bean feels like a major upgrade to the Android platform. Project Butter makes the operating system feel smooth and fluid, addressing one of the bigger criticism of Androids past. When the 4.1 OS was unveiled at Google’s I/O developer conference, Google told us that the Nexus devices would receive [...]]]>

How to install Android 4.0.4 on the Samsung Nexus S

Now that Android 4.0.4 for the Nexus S (i9023, i9020-T) is out, you may be wondering how to get your device up and running with the latest version of Android. Allow us to help. If you’re running stock 4.0.3 or any ROM with Clockwork Mod Recovery, the process to update your device couldn’t be easier.

For those of you with Clockwork Mod Recovery flashed, all you have to do is:

Download the flashable ROM from this XDA threadPlace on the root of your SDcard (plug your device into your computer, mount as USB storage and drag the flashable ROM onto your Nexus S, not in any folders)Reboot your device into recoveryWipe data/factory resetInstall .zip from SDcardChoose .zip from SDcardFlash the ROM you put on your Nexus SEnjoy!

If you’re using the stock build of 4.0.3, the steps to flash the update file are just as easy:

Grab the update file from GooglePlace on the root of your SDcardPower off your Nexus S, then once it’s off, hold volume up and power to boot into the bootloaderNavigate with the volume buttons to recovery, and use the power button to select itYou should see a warning triangle shortly after that, from there, hold down the power button and press volume upSelect apply update from /sdcard and choose the update fileReboot your Nexus S with the menu option providedEnjoy!

Of course, using either method to update your Nexus S is your decision. Only you are responsible for what happens to your device. For any additional help, or more information on the update process, you can use the comments or visit the XDA threads for either the rooted ROM or update file.

I’ve been playing around with the rooted but totally stock ROM and so far, and I love it. Everything is very fast and super smooth. No problems yet.

And don’t forget, those of you who don’t want to get their hands messy, this update will be hitting your device before you know it. So just hold on tight.