Android 5.0 Lollipop
Root Android L Developer Preview on Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 2013 TechRadar

Folks at The Android Soul have just confirmed that the newly released Android L Developer Preview for Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 2013 can be rooted with the patched SuperSU v2.00 package which incorporates a few minor changes into its rooting script.

Renowned XDA developer, Chainfire (the creator of SuperSU), had earlier tweeted that a fix exists for SuperSU on Android L update which does not support the traditional shell script and requires minor changes.

Contrary to rumours, it is ascertained that the new Android L update does not block system write access or root access on the device which is running the new software.

Furthermore, it is confirmed that a few minor changes to the root script on SuperSU will be sufficient to facilitate rooting on bootloader unlocked devices.

Note: Rooting is essential to install third-party root apps, latest custom ROMs and system tweaks for optimum performance of the device.

IBTimes UK reminds its readers that it will not be held liable for any damage to device during or after root installation. Users are advised to proceed at their own risk.

Pre-requisites

1. Install USB Drivers for LG Nexus 5 (download here) and Nexus 7 2013 (download here) on the computer.

2. Enable USB Debugging Mode on the phone by navigating to Settings >> Developer Options.

3. Back up all your important data before you proceed with installation process.

4. Ensure the phone's bootloader and SIM are unlocked before you proceed.

5. Make sure the phone's battery has at least 80% charge.

Downloads Required

Nexus 5: CWM Recovery and TWRP Recovery

Nexus 7 2013: CWM Recovery and TWRP Recovery

SuperSU v2.00 (patched for Android L update)

Boot file to fix binary issues: Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 2013

Note: Copy the downloaded SuperSU and Boot files to a safe location on your device. You may use either of the two custom recoveries based on your preference and convenience. Try using the other, if one fails to work.

Steps to RootAndroid L Developer Preview on Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 2013 via CWM Recovery

  • Power off the Nexus device and boot it into recovery mode. To do so, press and hold Volume Down and Power button together until the device shows START written with an arrow around it.
  • Then tap Volume Down a couple of times until the device shows the recovery option.
  • Now tap the Volume Up key to progress into recovery mode.
  • Take a Nandroid Backup of your important data by navigating to Backup and Restore and choose Backup.
  • Then select Install zip from sdcard > Choose zip from sdcard. Browse to the location of the saved files and select the SuperSU file. Note: Repeat this step to install the boot files as well.
  • Go back to the main menu of recovery mode and select reboot system now option to reboot the device once you have installed both the SuperSU and Boot files.

Your phone will now restart and the first boot may take some time to complete. So, wait until the device boots to the homescreen.

Steps to RootAndroid L Developer Preview on Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 2013 via TWRP Recovery

  • Power off the Nexus device and boot it into recovery mode. To do so, press and hold Volume Down and Power button together until the device shows START written with an arrow around it.
  • Then tap Volume Down a couple of times until the device shows the recovery option.
  • Now tap the Volume Up key to progress into recovery mode.
  • To take a Nandroid Backup go to Backup and select all check boxes. Now swipe on the Swipe to confirm option at the bottom of screen to confirm the action.
  • Then select Install, browse to the location of the saved files and select SuperSU file. Go to the bottom of the screen and do a swipe on Swipe to confirm flash option to begin installing the root. Note: Repeat this step to install the boot files as well.
  • Go back to the main menu of recovery mode and select reboot system now option to reboot the device once you have installed both the SuperSU and Boot files.

Your phone will now restart and the first boot may take some time to complete. So, wait until the device boots to the homescreen.

[Source: The Android Soul]