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How to Apply Update from ADB: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Published

1 month ago

September 23, 2025

Umair

How to Apply Update from ADB: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Updating your Android phone is crucial for security, performance, and access to the latest features. Most of the time, devices receive automatic OTA (Over-The-Air) updates. But sometimes the update doesn’t arrive on time, fails to install, or you may want to install it manually. This is where the “Apply update from ADB” option comes in.

ADB (Android Debug Bridge) lets you sideload an update package directly from your computer to your phone using a USB cable. Though it sounds technical, the process is straightforward when explained step by step. This guide covers what ADB sideload means, why and when to use it, preparation steps, the exact method, common errors, and FAQs. By the end, you’ll have a clear and trustworthy resource to safely update your Android manually.

What Does “Apply Update from ADB” Mean?

When you boot your device into recovery mode, you’ll see an option called Apply update from ADB. Selecting this puts your device into a special state where it waits for commands from your computer. With the adb sideload command, you can push an update package (a ZIP file) from your PC to your phone and install it.

It’s essentially a manual method of installing OTA updates. Instead of waiting for your phone to receive the update automatically, you take control of the process and install it yourself.

Why Use ADB to Apply Updates?

There are several reasons why users prefer the ADB update method:

Delayed OTA rollouts – Manufacturers release updates gradually, so you might not receive them immediately.
Failed OTA installation – If your phone shows errors during automatic updates, sideloading may work better.
Repair or restore system – In some cases, sideloading helps fix problems caused by corrupted system files.
Manual control – Advanced users often prefer managing updates themselves rather than waiting.

If your device updates normally through OTA, you don’t need ADB. But for situations like the above, it’s a reliable solution.

Pre-Requisites Before You Start

To successfully apply an update from ADB, you’ll need the following:

Backup your data – While updates usually don’t erase personal files, it’s always safest to back up photos, contacts, and documents first.
Correct update package (ZIP file) – Download the official OTA file for your specific device model and region. Using the wrong file may cause errors.
ADB and platform tools installed – These tools are provided by Google and include everything needed to run commands.
USB cable and drivers – Ensure you have a working data cable and that your computer recognizes your device.
Enable USB debugging – Go to Settings → About phone → tap “Build number” seven times to unlock Developer options → enable USB debugging.
Battery charged – Have at least 50–60% battery before starting.

Step-by-Step Guide: Apply Update from ADB

Here’s a clear process to sideload an update using ADB:

Step 1. Install ADB on Your Computer

Download and extract Android SDK Platform Tools.
Place the update ZIP file in the same folder for convenience.

Step 2. Enable USB Debugging on Your Device

Go to Settings → About phone → tap “Build number” repeatedly until Developer options unlock.
In Developer options, enable USB debugging.

Step 3. Connect Your Phone to the PC

Use a reliable USB cable.
Open the platform-tools folder on your PC.
Run adb devices in the command window to confirm your device is detected.

Step 4. Reboot into Recovery Mode

Either use hardware key combinations (varies by manufacturer) or run adb reboot recovery from the PC.
Once in recovery, navigate using volume keys and select with the power button.

Step 5. Select “Apply Update from ADB”

Scroll and choose the Apply update from ADB option.
Your device will now wait for the update command.

Step 6. Run the Sideload Command

On the computer, type:

adb sideload update.zip

(Replace update.zip with the actual file name.)
Wait while the update transfers and installs. This may take several minutes.

Step 7. Reboot System

Once installation finishes, select Reboot system now from recovery.
Your device will boot up with the new update installed.

Common Errors and Fixes

Issue	Cause	Solution
Device not detected by ADB	Missing drivers or bad cable	Install drivers, use a proper data cable, recheck `adb devices`.
Update fails to install	Wrong ZIP file or corruption	Verify the update file matches your model; redownload if needed.
Bootloop after update	Incomplete installation or incompatible file	Try factory reset from recovery; if persists, reinstall correct update.
Stuck in sideload mode	Command not sent properly	Cancel process, reboot into recovery, repeat steps carefully.
Data loss	Rare, but possible during errors	Always back up before starting.

Safety and Trustworthiness

Official files only – Always download update ZIPs from your phone’s manufacturer or trusted official sources.
Backup before starting – Even if the update shouldn’t erase data, be prepared.
Check compatibility – Ensure the file matches your exact phone model and region.
Avoid interruptions – Keep your device charged and avoid disconnecting the USB cable during sideload.

This method is widely used by both Android enthusiasts and support teams, making it safe when done correctly.

Conclusion

“Apply update from ADB” may sound technical, but it’s simply a manual way to install updates that your device normally receives automatically. By preparing correctly, downloading the right update file, and following each step carefully, you can successfully sideload an update without risk. It’s especially helpful if your OTA update is delayed, failing, or if you want full control over your device’s software. Always remember to back up your data, use official firmware, and double-check compatibility. With this knowledge, you now have a reliable way to keep your Android device secure and up-to-date.

FAQs

Q1. What is ADB sideload?
ADB sideload is a command that lets you push and install an update package (ZIP file) from your computer to your phone via USB. It’s a manual way of applying system updates.

Q2. Will applying an update from ADB erase my data?
Normally, official OTA updates installed through ADB sideload do not erase data. However, in case of errors or interruptions, there’s always a small risk—so backing up is recommended.

Q3. Can I use ADB update if USB debugging was not enabled?
If your phone can still boot into recovery, you may be able to use “Apply update from ADB” without USB debugging enabled in Android OS. But having it on gives better compatibility.

Q4. Where do I get the correct update ZIP file?
You should always get the update file from your device manufacturer’s official website or software update portal. Using files from untrusted sources can damage your phone.

Q5. What if my device gets stuck after applying update from ADB?
If your device doesn’t boot properly after the update, go back into recovery and try clearing the cache or, as a last resort, performing a factory reset. If issues persist, reinstall the correct update package.