Google proudly released its next version of Android 5.0 Lollipop which is Android 5.1.1 Lollipop having some bug fixes and extended security options. Now all the high-end devices are getting this update via their manufacturers right to them using OTA updates. The Nexus 9, which is officially a Google device, also gets this update (slightly late) using OTA updates. In a OTA update, you have to update from the device itself just by going to Settings > About Phone > System Updates and if there is any update available it will show you to download and install it.

However, if you had rooted your Nexus 9 or unlocked the bootloader then you will not receive this update using OTA. Furthermore, even if you do see it available, you don’t want to press the software update commands because it can brick your device.  Don’t worry about that though, as I have the perfect solution for you. You can manually update your Nexus 9 to Android 5.1.1 Lollipop using this guide.

Android Lollipop

Google made some great improvements in this version of Android. Some are security related and some are performance and interface related. But this update is officially meant for the tablets like Nexus 7 and Nexus 9. The main security option in this version (which I love the most) is the Factory Reset locking option with which anyone can’t factory reset your device until they know your Google password. And there is loads more, just figure them out by trying this and let us know in the comment section below.

You need for this update is a Windows-based PC (make sure that it won’t have any antivirus software installed on it or it may interrupt during the process and leads to bricked device). Moreover, you need a USB cable to connect your tablet to a PC and your beloved Nexus 9. Make sure that your PC should have an internet connection so you can download the update file (about 500 MB). Make sure that your tablet should have at least 70% battery left on it so it doesn’t run flat before finishing the installation.

Enable USB debugging on your Tablet by going to Settings > About Device > tap on Build Number 7 times, then come back to Settings > Developer Options > check the USB debugging option. The following 5.1.1 Lollipop update process and update file are only applicable for Nexus 9, do not even try to install this update on any other device it will damage your device.

Steps to manually update Nexus 9 to Android 5.1.1

  1. First you have to download the ADB package from here and extract it on your PC.
  2. Now download the update package from here and put it in the same extracted ADB folder.
  3. Open that ADB folder and right click on the empty space inside the folder while holding the Shift key and select “open command window here” from the pop up menu.
  4. On the command window, type this command: 
    adb reboot recovery
  5. Your Nexus 9 will shutdown and reboot to fast boot mode (a screen with android and warning logo).
  6. Press the power button and press volume up key once simultaneously.
  7. Your Nexus 9 will boot to stock recovery mode.
  8. Now use the volume keys to navigate through menu and highlight the “Update from adb” option.
  9. And type this command into the command window: 
    adb sideload 5cb0c6254e487f66c25478c8c11bff7975af669e.signed-volantis-LMY47X-from-LRX22L.5cb0c625.zip
  10. Installing the update will take some time so sit back and enjoy some music.
  11. After the installation, you will see the recovery menu again, just navigate to “reboot system now” and press the power key.

Your Nexus 9 will reboot to the updated Android system, now you can enjoy your updated Nexus 9. If you have any query about this process you can ask me by posting your comment in the comment section below.