Download Lineage OS 18.1 for Galaxy S5 (unofficial build)

One of the most popular, free custom operating systems for Android is LineageOS, which offers extensive customization options beyond what is available in the official stock ROM. Here, we have Lineage OS 18.1 for Galaxy S5 (unofficial build). This custom ROM is based on the Google Pixel Android 11.

About Lineage OS

LineageOS is a popular open-source operating system for smartphones and tablets. It is based on the Android operating system but offers a customized and often improved user experience. Here are some key points about LineageOS:

1. Open Source: LineageOS is built on open-source code, which means that its source code is freely available to the public. This allows developers to contribute to its development and create custom versions of the OS.
2. Customization: One of the main attractions of LineageOS is its high level of customization. Users can personalize their devices with various themes, wallpapers, and system tweaks.
3. Security Updates: LineageOS provides regular security updates, even for older devices. This helps to keep devices secure and protected from vulnerabilities.
4. Device Support: LineageOS supports a wide range of Android devices, including both older and newer models. This extends the life of devices that may no longer receive official updates from manufacturers.
5. Privacy Features: LineageOS includes privacy-focused features like Privacy Guard, which allows users to control app permissions more granularly, and the ability to disable tracking and analytics.
6. Stability and Performance: LineageOS is known for its stability and performance enhancements. Many users report that their devices run faster and smoother with LineageOS installed.
7. No Bloatware: LineageOS does not come with pre-installed bloatware or unnecessary apps. This can result in a cleaner and more efficient user experience.
8. Root Access: Users have the option to enable root access on their devices if they desire. This allows for even more customization and control over the device.
9. Community-Driven: LineageOS is primarily developed and maintained by a dedicated community of developers and contributors. This community-driven approach has been instrumental in its success.
10. Legal and Ethical Focus: LineageOS takes a strong stance on respecting intellectual property rights and promoting ethical practices in the Android custom ROM community.

Overall, LineageOS provides a compelling alternative for Android enthusiasts who want more control over their devices, extended support for older hardware, and a highly customizable Android experience.

Lineage OS 18.1 Unofficial build

LineageOS 18.1, the upcoming iteration of their operating system, is currently in the process of being prepared for release across a range of supported devices. This article presents a comprehensive list of devices that will be capable of running LineageOS 18.1, which is based on Android 11.

The renowned LineageOS team has taken the initiative to officially support and develop custom firmware for every Android OS version. They incorporate all the native features while introducing their own customizations and improvements. As of now, LineageOS 17/17.1 stands as the latest ROM built on Android 10 (Q). This is great news for those who prefer the latest custom ROM or have a preference for custom firmware over stock firmware. Meanwhile, Android developers have already commenced work on the upcoming Android OS version, which is likely to be named Android 11 or Android R.

Following the announcement of developer preview beta versions, LineageOS developers will embark on creating LineageOS 18, based on Android 11. There is still some time left before the release of the Android R version (Developer Preview Beta) for select compatible smartphone models. Likewise, the official release of LineageOS 18 for most compatible Android devices will be a gradual process, taking some time to complete. However, certain device models can anticipate the unofficial release of the latest LineageOS version by dedicated developers in the near future.

Key features

Lineage OS stands out as the top choice among aftermarket firmware options, excelling in terms of performance, stability, and being a feature-rich Custom ROM. We owe a special thanks to the XDA Recognized Developer gigahurts for creating this outstanding ROM.

Now, let’s delve into the remarkable features that the Android 11-based Lineage OS 18 firmware brings to the table:

1. Scheduled Dark Mode
2. Smart Reply and Smart Folders
3. Enhanced App Suggestions
4. Conversations Notification
5. Integrated Screen Recording
6. Pin Apps to the Sharing Menu
7. Improved Voice Access for Accessibility
8. Bluetooth Remains Active in Airplane Mode
9. Elevated Privacy and Security Features
10. Redesigned Power Menu
11. Revamped Device Controls
12. Redesigned Music Control
13. One-Time App Permissions
14. Automatic Permission Reset
15. Chat Bubbles for Messaging
16. Notification History Access
17. Wireless Android Auto Support
18. Google Play System Updates for Security Patches
19. Talkback Braille Keyboard
20. Enhanced Lookout Mode
21. Improved Camera Features, including Bokeh Mode, Built-in HAL, and Camera2 API support
22. Upgraded Digital Wellbeing Integration
23. Enhanced Enterprise Mode
24. Improved Autofill Keyboard Suggestions
25. Nearby Share for Easy File Transfer
26. Scoped Storage for Better Data Security
27. Resume Functionality on Reboot
28. Permission Blocking Options
29. Soft Reboot Option
30. Background Location Controls
31. Enhanced Call Screening to Identify Spam Calls
32. Picture-in-Picture Mode
33. 5G Detection API Support
34. Hinge Angle Sensor Support
35. Ethernet Tethering Capability
36. Gesture Sensitivity Enhancements

In sum, Lineage OS 18 based on Android 11 offers a comprehensive package of features, performance enhancements, and security upgrades, making it the top choice for users seeking an optimized and customizable Android experience.

How to download and Install LineageOS 18 for Samsung Galaxy S5 (Android 11)

Now, let us look at the steps you will need to follow in order to install Lineage OS 18.1 or 18 on your Galaxy S5. With this version of the firmware for the Galaxy S5, the following features are working perfectly;

• Boots
• RIL (Calls, SMS, Data, VoLTE)
• Wi-Fi
• Hotspot
• Bluetooth
• Video Playback
• Camera
• Flash
• Audio
• Sensors
• LED
• GPS
• SafetyNet passes by default
• Fingerprint

On the otherhand, you will not be able to use the following features after installing this custom ROM;

• Selinux Permissive
• Night Light
• NFC (not tested)
• Inform the dev if you find any other bug

OpenGApps Nano for Android 11

• BiTGapps 11.0: Download here
• NikGapps 11.0 R: Download here
• Download Gapps for Android 11 (Google Play Services Beta should work)

Before you start

• Enable USB Debugging on your Samsung Galaxy S5. Settings > About Phone > Tap on Build Number 7 times > Go back to Settings > System > Advanced > Developer Options > Enable USB Debugging.
• Also, enable the OEM Unlock from the Developer Options.

• Make sure the bootloader on your device is unlocked and your device is rooted and you have a custom recovery installed.
• Make sure your device has more than 50% battery.
• Make sure you have taken a backup of your important data. Now proceed to install Lineage OS 18 ROM (Android 11) on your Samsung Galaxy S5 device.
• Make sure that you have installed TWRP recovery on your Android device.

Flashing guide

Now, let us proceed with flashing the Lineage OS custom ROM. You will have to download it plus all required files from above and the proceed as follows;

• Ensure your device is rooted and has the latest TWRP recovery installed.
• Transfer the downloaded files to your device’s internal storage.
• Confirm that your device’s bootloader is unlocked.
• Reboot your device into TWRP recovery.

• Create a Nandroid backup by selecting this option from the home screen. Include your data and cache in the backup from the recovery menu.
• Return to TWRP’s main menu and proceed to wipe the cache, data, and system before flashing the ROM.
  • To wipe data, navigate to Wipe > Advanced Wipe.
  • Select Dalvik/ART cache, cache, System, Vendor, and Data.
  • Swipe to confirm the wipe. (Do not select the internal storage).

• Return to TWRP’s main menu again.
• Install the ROM, provided as a .zip file, by going to Install > Install Zip > ROM File (.zip).

• Next, flash the Gapps file following the same procedure as custom ROMs using TWRP.
• If you want to root your device, you can also flash Magisk at this stage (optional).

After the flashing process has finished, restart your Samsung Galaxy S5, and it will boot into Lineage OS 18 ROM, which is based on Android 11.