Updated: The update is now available for the Samsung Galaxy S2 to Android 4.1.2 Jelly BeanIf you're still interested in upgrading to ICS 4.0.4, read on. Otherwise, visit the link above for the latest version.
How to update Samsung Galaxy S2 to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich
The Samsung Galaxy S2 was one of the Korean brand's most popular devices. Although it no longer receives official support for new versions of Android, it is still possible to update it to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich, a version that brought major improvements both visually and functionally. In this guide, we explain Step by Step how to perform the update, both using official methods and manually if it's not available in your region or your carrier hasn't released the update.
Why upgrade to Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich?
Android 4.0 Ice Cream Sandwich It represented a significant leap forward from previous versions (Gingerbread), introducing a more modern interface and the long-awaited unification of the Android experience across mobile phones and tablets. Among the main advantages you'll gain by upgrading your Samsung Galaxy S2 are:
- Revamped interface with Holo design and new menus.
- Optimized performance, greater fluidity and response.
- New apps and widgets improved natives.
- Advanced multitasking system and much more useful notifications.
- Support for more current applications.
Official update options: OTA and Samsung Kies
Most free operators and models offer update via OTA (Over The Air) or through Samsung Kies, Samsung's official software for syncing and updating devices.
To check if the update is available for you, follow these steps:
- Download Samsung Kies from Samsung's official site and install it on your computer.
- Connect your Galaxy S2 to your PC using a USB cable and wait for it to recognize the device.
- In Samsung Kies, select your mobile and click on «Check updates».
- If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions. The procedure is guided and secure.
- Always back up your data before updating.
Note: If the update isn't available for your region or your carrier hasn't released it yet, you can follow the alternative method using Odin, explained below.
Manual Method: Update Samsung Galaxy S2 to Android 4.0 with Odin
If you don't want to wait for the operator to release the update, you can install it yourself. Android 4.0 on the Galaxy S2 using Odin, the most commonly used tool for flashing firmware on Samsung devices. This process is safe if all the steps are followed, but remember that you do so at your own risk. It's essential not to interrupt the process once it's started and to make sure all steps are fully understood before you begin.
Important prerequisites
- Having Samsung Kies installed so that the USB drivers are also on the PC.
- Download the Official ROM Android 4.0 ICS (e.g. XXLPJ/XXLPQ) for the Galaxy S2 and Odin.
- Perform backup all data important, especially those in internal memory (contacts, photos, applications and SMS).
- The mobile phone battery must be fully charged (or at least, above 90%).
- uses a PC connected to power or fully charge if it is a laptop, to avoid the risk of accidental shutdown.
- Deactivate antivirus, firewall and close Samsung Kies during the process.
Step by step for manual update
- Unzip the downloaded ROM file. You'll need to have both Odin and the firmware files handy.
- On your Galaxy S2, activate the option "USB debugging". Go to Settings > Applications > Development > USB Debugging.
- Completely turn off the phone.
- Turn it on download mode by simultaneously pressing Volume Down + Home + Power until the corresponding message appears.
- Connect your Galaxy S2 to your PC using a USB cable. In Odin, the ID:COM field should light up (usually yellow or blue), indicating that it has successfully detected your phone.
- In Odin, select the ROM file from the button PDA (in modern versions it may appear as AP). The file will be something like «I9100XXLPQ_I9100OXALPQ_I9100XXLPQ_HOME.tar.md5».
- Make sure that Do NOT enable Re-Partition, Auto Reboot or F. Reset Time options unless the ROM's own guide expressly indicates otherwise.
- Push the button Start and start the process. It's important not to disconnect the phone or interrupt it at any time.
- Once the flashing is complete, the Galaxy S2 will reboot automatically.
First boot after update: Wipe and setup
In some cases, after a manual update, it is advisable to perform a Wipe data/factory reset y "Wipe cache partition" Entering recovery mode (by pressing Volume Up + Home + Power). This ensures optimal system performance and prevents errors caused by remnants of the old version. Then, select "Reboot system now" to restart the device.
Remember to restore your backup and check your settings. accounts, APN (internet operator) and sync (for example, if Gmail or WhatsApp aren't syncing, check that the sync option is enabled).
Additional tips and common issues after the update
- Some applications may need to be updated from Google Play to work properly with the new version.
- If you notice that the performance is not as expected, perform a factory reset after upgrade.
- If you're having account sync issues (e.g., Gmail), check your options in Settings > Accounts & sync.
- It is common to have to reconfigure the APN access point for mobile data if you don't browse. Check with your carrier or check the website for data availability.
Frequently Asked Questions About Upgrading to Android 4.0 ICS
- Will phone data be lost when updating? If you update via OTA or Kies, usually not. If you update manually with Odin, it's recommended to back up your data because the internal storage may be erased.
- Can I revert to my previous version? Yes, it is possible to revert to the previous version by repeating this same process with the original firmware file.
- Do I lose the warranty? If the update is official, no. If you're using unofficial ROMs, it could be affected.
User reviews after updating to ICS on the Galaxy S2
The vast majority of users agree that The experience after updating is positive: Greater fluidity, better app support, and a much more modern interface. Some common minor issues include the need to reconfigure accounts or network settings, but with simple solutions from the settings menus.
Among the applications that have been reported to work correctly after updating to Android 4.0 on the Galaxy S2 are WhatsApp, Google+, ES File Explorer, Twitter, and Google Sky Map, among many others.
Detailed video tutorial for updating the Samsung Galaxy S2
If you prefer to see the process step by step in audiovisual format, you can consult this video tutorial where each part of the process is explained in detail: Video Tutorial: Updating the Samsung Galaxy S2 to Android 4.0 ICS.
Useful links and additional resources
- Samsung Kies PCSync
- Guides for Android in video tutorial format
- Update Samsung Galaxy S2 to Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean
