Almost 2 weeks after Google launched Nexus 5 with Android 4.4 KitKat, older generation Nexus devices have started receiving their OTAs. However, for those who were on custom ROMs (like my Nexus 4), you will need to use the factory images to flash back to stock KitKat 4.4 or continue using whichever custom ROMs that suit your needs. Google has finally published the stock factory images and I’ve just completed flashing my Nexus 4 back to stock (rooted) and set it up with the Google Experience Launcher.
The process to flash stock factory images onto Nexus devices isn’t that hard. It takes a little time and you probably will lose your applications (and their data), but you can choose to retain all your photos and files in your Nexus 4’s internal memory, if you wish. AndroidPolice has a detailed post about how to perform the process so you should probably head over there to read up on it if you are unfamiliar. Also, do keep in mind that Nexus 4’s KitKat upgrade does not come with the Google Experience Launcher (GEL) APK. Therefore, you will be unable to use the GEL launcher although most of the code is already present in the Google Search APK. To enable it is as simple as downloading the GEL APK from AndroidPolice and installing it onto your phone.
Having issues? You can contact me via Facebook/Hangouts or via the comments section below.
Enjoy your new KitKat!