Replace EMUI launcher with:
This guide assumes a Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite (10" model) — model names include SHT-W09, SHT-AL09, or variants. Steps cover unlocking (if possible), installing a custom recovery, and flashing ROMs (AOSP/LineageOS or Pixel Experience). Adjust for your specific model.
Huawei may have abandoned the MediaPad M5 Lite, but the developer community has not. By installing one of these top custom ROMs, you are not only saving a device from a landfill but also getting a superior software experience than EMUI ever provided.
Proceed with caution, follow XDA guides precisely, and enjoy your "new" tablet.
Disclaimer: Flashing custom ROMs carries risk. The author is not responsible for bricked devices. Always ensure you have the correct files for the MediaPad M5 Lite (Agassi), not the standard M5 or M5 Pro.
For the Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite (model BAH2-L09/W09/W19), the custom ROM landscape is heavily centered on Treble-based ROMs and OpenKirin projects due to Huawei's Kirin 659 chipset and restricted bootloader policies. Top Custom ROM Options
While development for this specific tablet is niche, several community-tested options exist:
OpenKirin Project: This is the primary recommendation for Kirin devices.
Resurrection Remix: A highly customizable ROM known for extensive UI tweaks.
LineageOS (OpenKirin edition): Offers a clean, near-stock Android experience. Note that official LineageOS support is often limited to the standard M5, not the "Lite" version.
AOSP (Android Open Source Project): Provides the most basic, stable experience based on vanilla Android.
AOSP 10 (Quack) by phhusson: A widely cited Generic System Image (GSI) that has been confirmed to work on the MediaPad M5 Lite Global variant.
Pixel Experience (Android 10): Though more common on the M3 Lite, modified versions have been used by the community to bring a Google Pixel-like UI and features to the M5 series. Critical Installation Requirements
Before attempting any flash, you must address the following technical barriers:
Unlocked Bootloader: This is mandatory and increasingly difficult as Huawei stopped providing unlock codes. You may need to use third-party paid services or "TestPoint" hardware methods to bypass this.
Stock ROM Base: Most custom ROMs require you to be on a specific EMUI version (typically EMUI 8.0 or 9.1) before flashing to ensure firmware compatibility.
Custom Recovery (TWRP): You must install a compatible TWRP image to handle the partition wipes and ROM flashing. Community & Support Resources
Install Android 11 on Huawei Mediapad T5 | Lineage OS 18.1 | huawei mediapad m5 lite custom rom top
The Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite: A Brief Overview
The Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite is a mid-range tablet that was released in 2018. It features a 10.8-inch Full HD display, a Kirin 710 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of internal storage. The device runs on Android 8.0 (Oreo) out of the box.
Why Custom ROMs?
Custom ROMs offer a way to breathe new life into older devices like the MediaPad M5 Lite. They provide a fresh interface, new features, and often, better performance. Moreover, custom ROMs can help extend the lifespan of a device by offering updates and security patches that are no longer available from the manufacturer.
Top Custom ROMs for Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite
Here are some of the top custom ROMs available for the Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite:
Before You Begin
Before flashing a custom ROM on your MediaPad M5 Lite, make sure to:
Conclusion
Custom ROMs can breathe new life into older devices like the Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite. The top custom ROMs available for this device offer a range of features, performance, and interfaces. However, before flashing a custom ROM, make sure to unlock the bootloader, install TWRP, and backup your data.
Popular custom ROMs include:
No ready-to-use custom ROM exists for the MediaPad M5 Lite.
If you want a custom ROM tablet, look for Samsung (Snapdragon), Xiaomi (Unlockable), or Lenovo Tab series instead.
Custom ROM development for the Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite is uniquely challenging because Huawei stopped providing official bootloader unlock codes in 2018. However, for users who already have an unlocked bootloader or use third-party tools, several "Top" ROM options can breathe new life into this Kirin 659-powered tablet. The State of Custom ROMs for MediaPad M5 Lite
Since this tablet is part of the Project Treble era, most custom development revolves around Generic System Images (GSIs) rather than device-specific builds.
Best Overall GSI: AOSP (Android Open Source Project) by phhusson is often cited as the most stable base for this device.
Best for Features: LeaOS (Android 11) is a popular choice among power users looking for a more modern Android experience on older hardware.
Legacy High-Performer: Resurrection Remix (based on Android 9.0 Pie) is a classic option for users who prioritize deep customization over the latest Android version. Replace EMUI launcher with: This guide assumes a
The "Clean" Option: LineageOS remains a top recommendation for its minimal bloat and near-stock feel, though it usually requires supplemental modules for full feature parity. Prerequisite: Unlocking the Bootloader
You cannot install a custom ROM without an unlocked bootloader. Since Huawei's official portal is closed, you have two primary options:
Paid Services: Tools like DC-Unlocker can still generate unlock codes for a fee.
Open Source Hardware Hack: PotatoNV is a specialized tool for Kirin 659/655 devices. It requires physically opening the tablet to short a "test point" on the motherboard, but it is free and effective for advanced users. Installation Highlights Once unlocked, the process generally follows these steps:
Custom Recovery: Install TWRP to manage partitions and flash images.
Flashing: Most M5 Lite ROMs are flashed via the Fastboot command: fastboot flash system .img.
Rooting: Magisk is the standard for gaining root access on EMUI 9.1 or custom ROMs to pass SafetyNet checks. Why Switch from EMUI?
The stock EMUI 8.0/9.1 software is often criticized for being heavy on resources. Custom ROMs typically offer: Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite 10-Inch Tablet - Amazon.ie
The Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite remains a popular mid-range tablet, but its official software support ended with EMUI 9. For users looking to refresh their device with newer Android versions and better performance, custom ROMs are the primary solution. However, due to Huawei's strict bootloader policies, the modding scene is more complex than other brands. The Bootloader Challenge
Before installing any custom ROM, you must unlock the bootloader.
Official Status: Huawei officially terminated its bootloader unlock code service in July 2018.
Workarounds: To unlock your device now, you generally need third-party paid services or specialized software like DC-Unlocker. Some advanced users use the PotatoNV method, which requires opening the tablet to access a physical testpoint on the motherboard. Top Custom ROMs for Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite
Once unlocked, users typically rely on Project Treble and Generic System Images (GSI) because dedicated device-specific ROMs are rare for this Kirin-based hardware. 1. LeaOS (Android 11 & Above)
LeaOS is one of the most stable and frequently cited options on community forums like 4PDA for this specific tablet.
Key Highlights: Based on Android 11, it brings a much cleaner interface than EMUI and includes specific Huawei-focused patches for features like fast charging.
Best For: Users seeking a stable, daily-driver experience with modern Android security. 2. LineageOS (GSI / Unofficial)
While there is no official LineageOS build for the M5 Lite, users can run LineageOS GSIs (Generic System Images). Disclaimer: Flashing custom ROMs carries risk
Key Highlights: Known for its extreme minimalism and privacy controls. Users have successfully tested LineageOS 18.1 (Android 11) on this hardware.
Best For: Performance enthusiasts who want to strip away all bloatware. 3. AOSP 10 (Quack) by phhusson
Phhusson is a legendary developer in the Project Treble community. His AOSP GSIs are the foundation for most other ROMs.
Key Highlights: Provides a "Pure Android" experience. It is often the most compatible for Kirin 659 devices like the M5 Lite.
Best For: Users who want the closest experience possible to a Google Pixel tablet. 4. Project Matrix & Evolution X (GSI)
As of early 2026, these ROMs are popular in the broader Android community for their extensive customization options and "smooth" feel.
Key Highlights: They include features like Play Integrity spoofing (to keep banking apps working) and advanced UI tweaks.
Best For: Power users who enjoy tweaking every aspect of the tablet’s appearance. Installation Quick-Tips
Backup Everything: Unlocking the bootloader will trigger a factory reset.
Enable Developer Options: Navigate to Settings > System > About Tablet and tap "Build Number" seven times to enable necessary tools.
Check Hardware Version: Ensure you are downloading files for the correct model (e.g., 10-inch vs. 8-inch, or LTE vs. Wi-Fi).
Use XDA Resources: For the most up-to-date files and recovery tools, visit the Huawei MediaPad M5 Lite XDA Forum.
Install Android 11 on Huawei Mediapad T5 | Lineage OS 18.1 |
Fix: Go to Developer Options > Default USB Configuration > Set to "File Transfer". If still broken, reboot to TWRP and use MTP from recovery to transfer files.
crDroid builds upon LineageOS but adds a massive layer of customization. If you feel Android is too boring, crDroid is the top choice for tweakers.
Why it shines:
Drawbacks:
Best for: Enthusiasts who want Android 14 and a unique look.