Update Galaxy Tab 2 to Android 4.0.4 ICS with XXBLH4 ROM [How to Install]

Samsung has released the official Ice Cream Sandwich (ICS) Over-The-Air (OTA) update through its KIES software in Germany for the Galaxy Tab 2 (10.1). The new XXBLH4 based Android 4.0.4 update does not port any new feature but brings more stability to the Android operating system (OS), besides fixing a few inherent bugs.

The ROM is based on modem build OXABLH4 and the firmware release date corresponds to 24 August 2012. The guide below details the steps to install XXBLH4 Android 4.0.4 official ICS update on Galaxy Tab 2 (10.1) P51000 using ODIN.

Key Points to Note

• The ROM and the instructions provided in this guide are applicable to the Galaxy Tab 2 10.1 P5100 model only and will not work with any other device. Verify your device's model number by navigating to Settings > About tablet.
• IBTimes UK advises users to backup apps, important data and settings (bookmarks, contacts, SMS, APNs and other internet settings) to avoid data loss while installing the XXBLH4 based Android 4.0.4 ICS update.
• As this ROM is an official Android 4.0.4 ICS release for Galaxy Tab 2 P5100, you will lose root access soon after installing the update. You need to root your device once again to recover full system access and unlock the privilege to install root based third-party apps and tweaks on it.
• Further, the instructions in the guide are meant for reference purpose only and do not cover any warranty claims involving device damage or issues arising out of using this ICS update. Users are advised to proceed at their own risk.

Android 4.0.4 XXBLH4 Firmware Details

PDA: P5100XXBLH4
CSC: P5100OXABLH4
Version: 4.0.4
Date: 2012-08-24
Regions tested/supported: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom

Prerequisites

• Ensure that the correct USB drivers are installed on your Galaxy Tab 2 to facilitate connection with the computer. Download Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 (10.1) USB drivers here.
• Enable USB debugging mode, which helps connect the tablet to your PC.
• Make sure that your tablet battery is at least 85 percent charged to prevent unexpected battery shutdown while installing the firmware update. Such an incident might brick or permanently damage your device.
• Verify that your Galaxy Tab is factory unlocked or unlocked manually and rooted, before proceeding with the ROM installation steps.

How to Install XXBLH4 based Android 4.0.4 ICS Update on Galaxy Tab (10.1) P5100

Step 1 - Download Android 4.0.4 P5100XXBLH4 firmware for Galaxy Tab 2 (10.1) to your computer and extract the zip file.

Step 2 - Download ODIN v1.85 which is needed to install Android 4.0.4 ICS on Galaxy Tab 2 P5100.

Step 3 - Power off your tablet and boot into Download Mode. To do so, press and hold the Volume Up and Power buttons together until you see the Android robot icon and a triangle. Press the Power button again to confirm entry into Download Mode.

Step 4 - Launch ODIN on your computer and connect the tablet to your computer in Download Mode.

Step 5 - If your phone connects successfully, one of the ID:COM boxes indicates yellow with the COM port number. This step is time consuming, so leave it alone.

Step 6 - Now, choose the files from the extracted files you obtained in Step 1 to flash/install on your tablet.

• Click PDA and choose file named 'CODE' in the list.

• Tap Phone and click file named 'MODEM' in the list. Ignore this step if such file is missing.
• Select CSC and choose file named 'CSC' from the list. Ignore this step if such file is unavailable.
• Finally, click PIT and choose the .pit file. Ignore this step if there is no such file.

Step 7 - In ODIN, enable the Auto Reboot and F. Reset Time options. As for the Re-Partition option, enable it ONLY if you selected a .PIT file in the previous step.

Step 8 - Now, click Start button in ODIN and the Installation process will begin. This process may take a few minutes to complete.

Step 9 - Once the ROM is installed, your tablet will reboot. When you see the home screen, disconnect your phone from the computer.

Your Samsung Galaxy S Tab 2 is now successfully updated to XXBLH4 based Android 4.0.4 ICS firmware. Go to Settings > About phone to verify the firmware build on your tablet.

[Source:Team Android]