Install Hydrogen OS on Indian OnePlus 2 (Instruction)

The recently launched flagship killer, OnePlus 2 has been available in two OS options – Oxygen OS and Hydrogen OS. Both OSs are based on the Android 5.1.1 Lollipop, but have few differences in their UI and features. Oxygen OS has a near stock UI, while the Hydrogen OS has a completely redesigned UI. While Oxygen OS OnePlus 2 sold globally, Hydrogen OS OnePlus 2 sold in its homebrew market China only.

Android enthusiast may want to try out Hydrogen OS on their OnePlus 2. The instruction here will walk you through installing Hydrogen OS on the Indian OnePlus 2, along with OTA update. However, please note that this is a ported version of Hydrogen OS (thanks to XDA contributor thebuginyou) that you can simply install on OnePlus 2 via TWRP custom recovery.

For installing Hydrogen OS on OnePlus 2, your phone must have unlocked bootloader and TWRP recovery installed. You may follow this instruction to get details about the procedure.

How to Install Hydrogen OS on OnePlus 2

Warning: The below guide void your device warranty. Do NOT forget to back up your phone data. Also, follow the instruction at your own risk. We will not be liable if any damage occurs to your device and/or its components. Recommended for technically talented users only.

1. Download Hydrogen OS [HERE], OTA update [HERE] and Gapps [HERE] and move all the three zip files to your OnePlus 2’s internal memory.

2. Now, boot your phone into TWRP recovery. Next, you will need to make backup of every data on your phone. Also, make a Nandroid backup (complete system) from TWRP recovery, just in case.

3. Now, from TWRP main menu, select ‘Wipe’ and perform Dalvik, Cache, Data and Factory reset.

4. Once wiping done, select ‘Install’ from TWRP menu, and flash all the three zip files: ROM .zip file, OTA .zip file and Gapps .zip file one by one.

5. Finally, once again wipe Cache and then reboot your OnePlus 2.

After rebooting (it will take at least 5 minutes), select English -> Connect ->Google Login. Also, select the AOSP Keyboard in Input Settings for getting rid of Chinese Keyboard. (Source – XDA)