The Lenovo A5500-hv was never a flagship, but its MediaTek chipset proved remarkably hackable. By installing a Lenovo A5500-hv custom ROM, you are practicing digital sustainability—keeping e-waste out of landfills and sticking it to planned obsolescence.
Action Step: Back up your data, download TWRP and LineageOS 14.1, and spend an hour breathing new life into your old slate. The satisfaction of seeing “Android 7.1” boot on decade-old hardware is pure tech nostalgia.
Liked this guide? Share your experience in the XDA thread. Developers keep maintaining these ROMs only if they see users are still interested.
Disclaimer: Modifying your device voids warranties and carries a risk of bricking. The author is not responsible for lost data or hardware damage. Proceed with caution and at your own risk.
Here’s a ready-to-use social media / forum post for the Lenovo A5500-HV (also known as the Lenovo Tab A7-10 A5500-HV).
You can use it on XDA Forums, Reddit, Telegram, or Facebook Groups.
The stock Lenovo Vibe UI is heavy. Custom ROMs strip away the bloat, update the kernel, and allow you to run newer versions of Android (up to 7.1.2 Nougat) that are much lighter and more secure than the stock OS.
The original XDA thread is archived. The most active development currently lives on 4pda (Russian) and Telegram groups.
Search terms for Google:
Pro Tip: Use Google Translate to navigate 4pda. Look for the green download button (it's usually in post #1 or #2).
Disclaimer: Rooting and flashing ROMs void your warranty (which is expired anyway). Proceed at your own risk.
Step 1: Unlock Bootloader Unlike newer devices, the A5500-hv has a semi-unlocked bootloader. Use MTK Droid Tools to generate a scatter file and unlock it.
Step 2: Flash TWRP via SP Flash Tool
Step 3: Boot into Recovery Hold Volume Up + Power until the Lenovo logo appears, then release Power but keep holding Volume Up.
Step 4: Wipe Everything In TWRP: Wipe -> Advanced Wipe -> Select Dalvik, System, Data, Cache. Do not wipe Internal Storage unless you want to lose your ROM zip.
Step 5: Flash the ROM
Step 6: Reboot First boot takes 3–5 minutes. Do not panic if the "Android is starting" screen stays long.
Absolutely, but with realistic expectations.
Do not expect to play Genshin Impact or multitask with 10 Chrome tabs. However, for $20 on eBay, an A5500-HV running LineageOS 14.1 makes an excellent:
The Bottom Line: Stock software killed this tablet. Custom ROMs resurrected it. If you have an old A5500-HV gathering dust in a drawer, flashing LineageOS 14.1 will give you a surprisingly snappy retro Android tablet.
Disclaimer: Flashing custom ROMs voids your warranty (long expired anyway) and carries a risk of bricking your device. The author is not responsible for dead tablets or lost Wi-Fi MAC addresses.
Breathing New Life into the Lenovo Tab A8-50 (A5500-HV): A Custom ROM Guide
The Lenovo Tab A8-50 (A5500-HV), while a veteran of the Android tablet world, remains a capable device for light reading and media consumption. However, officially stuck on Android 4.4 KitKat, it can feel sluggish and outdated. For enthusiasts, installing a custom ROM is the primary way to access newer Android features and improved performance. Top Custom ROM Options
While development has slowed, the community—particularly on forums like —has provided several notable releases: LineageOS 14.1 (Android 7.1 Nougat):
The most stable and recommended path for "reviving" the tablet. It offers a clean, near-stock Android experience. Resurrection Remix (5.8.5/5.8.8):
Highly customizable and based on Android 7.1.2. Users have reported successful installations even on related models like the A5500-F.
For those who prefer a different visual aesthetic, unofficial MIUI ports are available that overhaul the entire UI. Essential Tools & Preparation
Before attempting a flash, you must gather specific tools to avoid bricking your device:
Revive Your Tablet: A Guide to Lenovo A5500-HV Custom ROMs The Lenovo A8-50 (A5500-HV)
was a solid 8-inch tablet in its day, but with a stock operating system that officially peaked at Android 4.4 KitKat, it can feel sluggish and incompatible with modern apps today. If your device is gathering dust, flashing a Custom ROM is the best way to breathe new life into it with updated features and better performance. Why Install a Custom ROM?
Updated Android Versions: Get access to newer APIs that modern apps require.
Bloatware Removal: Eliminate the pre-installed Lenovo apps that eat up your limited 1GB of RAM.
Customization: Change everything from your boot animation to advanced system-level themes. Popular ROM Options
(the 3G voice-enabled model), you generally look for stability. While this device is older, enthusiasts often turn to versions of:
LineageOS (Unofficial): Known for being lightweight and close to stock Android. Resurrection Remix : Great if you want every possible customization option.
GSI ROMs: For advanced users, Project Treble support (on newer devices) has made Generic System Images popular, though the
usually requires specific builds found on the XDA Developers forum. Prerequisites for Flashing Before you begin, you must have these three things ready:
Lenovo A5500-HV (also known as the Lenovo A8-50) is an older tablet that officially stopped receiving updates at Android 4.4.2 KitKat. While its hardware is aged, custom ROMs are often used to upgrade its software to more modern versions, such as Android 7.1.2 Nougat. Finding and Selecting a Custom ROM
Because this device is older, official support from major ROM projects like is generally not available. Instead, users must rely on unofficial ports hosted on community platforms like the XDA Developers Forums Supported Versions
: Most community ROMs for this model aim to provide Android 7.x (Nougat) to improve security and app compatibility. AOSP/GSI Limits
(Generic System Images) typically require the device to have shipped with Android 8 or higher (Project Treble), which the does not support Installation Prerequisites To install any custom ROM on the Lenovo A5500-HV , you must complete these foundational steps: 23 Dec 2023 —
Lenovo Tab A8 (A5500-HV) , finding a stable custom ROM is challenging due to the device's age and its MediaTek chipset. While official support from major projects like
is generally not available for this specific model, the community has developed several unofficial ports that can upgrade the tablet from its original Android 4.2/4.4 Jelly Bean/KitKat to more modern versions. Popular Custom ROMs for A5500-HV
The following ROMs are historically popular for this hardware, typically bringing it up to Android 7.1.2 (Nougat) Resurrection Remix (v5.8.8)
: Widely considered the best and smoothest option for this series, offering extensive customization while maintaining stability. AOSP Extended (AEX)
: A cleaner, more minimal ROM based on the Android Open Source Project that provides a near-stock Pixel experience.
: A performance-focused ROM known for its unique "Viper" branding and specialized UI features. LineageOS (Unofficial)
: Though not officially maintained, unofficial builds of versions like 14.1 (Android 7.1) can sometimes be found on regional hacking forums or XDA Developers Before You Begin Backup Everything : Flashing a ROM requires a full data wipe. Use a tool like Lenovo Support or manual backups before proceeding. Unlock Bootloader : You must enable OEM Unlocking USB Debugging
in Developer Options to allow third-party software installation. Install TWRP Recovery : A custom recovery like is essential for flashing the ROM ZIP files. General Installation Steps Download the and a compatible GApps package (Google Apps) for your Android version.
Transfer files to your tablet's internal storage or an SD card. Boot into Recovery mode (usually by holding Power + Volume Up In TWRP, go to Advanced Wipe and select Data, System, Cache, and Dalvik
, select your ROM ZIP, and swipe to flash. Follow immediately with the GApps ZIP. Factory Reset/Format Data if recommended by the ROM developer, then reboot. Custom Rom on an OLD android tablet — Lenovo A3500H
The Lenovo A5500-HV (also known as the Lenovo Tab A8-50 ) is an older device that typically runs on Android 4.2.2 or 4.4.2. Because of its age, finding modern, "official" custom ROMs like LineageOS or Pixel Experience is difficult. However, developers on community forums like XDA Developers have historically provided several options to breathe new life into this tablet. Common Custom ROM Options
While specific links change over time, these are the types of ROMs generally available for this model:
CyanogenMod 12.1 (Android 5.1 Lollipop): One of the most stable updates for this device, offering a cleaner interface than the stock Lenovo UI.
MIUI (Ported Versions): Often ported from other MediaTek devices, offering a highly customized aesthetic.
Debloated Stock ROMs: These are versions of the original Lenovo software with all the "bloatware" removed, improving speed and storage space. Prerequisites for Installation To install any custom ROM on the , you generally need to follow these steps:
Unlock the Bootloader: This is the first step to allowing any third-party software.
Install a Custom Recovery: You will likely need TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) or CWM (ClockworkMod) to flash the ROM files.
Backup Your Data: Customizing your ROM will wipe your device. Perform a full backup using tools like the Lenovo Moto Smart Assistant. How to Install
If you find a compatible ROM file (usually a .zip file), the general process is:
Transfer the ROM and GApps (Google Apps) zip files to your tablet's SD card.
Boot into your Custom Recovery (usually by holding Power + Volume Up). Perform a Wipe (Data, Cache, and Dalvik). Select Install and choose the ROM zip file.
Flash GApps immediately after if they aren't included in the ROM.
Reboot your device (the first boot may take up to 10 minutes).
Warning: Modifying your tablet's software can "brick" the device (make it unusable) if not done correctly. Always ensure the ROM you download is specifically built for the HV variant of the A5500.
The Lenovo Tab A8-50 (A5500-HV) is a classic budget tablet that many users still hold onto for media consumption or light reading. However, stuck on outdated Android versions, the device can feel sluggish or incompatible with modern apps. Installing a custom ROM is the best way to breathe new life into this hardware.
This guide explores the best custom ROM options, the prerequisites for installation, and a step-by-step walkthrough to get your Lenovo A5500-HV running modern software. Why Install a Custom ROM?
The stock firmware on the A5500-HV is heavily skinned and often filled with bloatware that eats up limited RAM. By switching to a custom ROM, you gain several advantages: Improved performance and snappier UI transitions. Access to newer Android versions and security patches. Better battery management through optimized kernels. The ability to remove pre-installed apps you never use. Customization options for themes, icons, and status bars. Prerequisites Before You Begin
Modifying your tablet’s software carries risks. Ensure you have checked off the following items before proceeding:
Backup Your Data: Everything on the internal storage will be wiped. Back up photos, documents, and app data.
Charge Your Battery: Ensure the tablet has at least 70% charge to prevent it from shutting down during the flash.
Enable USB Debugging: Go to Settings > About Tablet > Tap "Build Number" seven times. Then, in Developer Options, enable USB Debugging.
Unlock the Bootloader: You cannot install a custom recovery or ROM without an unlocked bootloader.
Install TWRP Recovery: A custom recovery like Team Win Recovery Project (TWRP) is essential for flashing ROM zip files. Popular Custom ROMs for Lenovo A5500-HV
While the development community for this specific model is smaller than for flagship phones, there are a few stable builds available:
LineageOS (Unofficial): The gold standard for stability and a clean, stock-Android experience. It strips away all Lenovo clutter.
Resurrection Remix: Best for users who want every possible customization toggle. It combines features from several different ROMs.
AOSP (Android Open Source Project): The purest form of Android. It is lightweight and ideal if you just want the fastest possible performance. Installation Steps
Follow these steps carefully. Using the wrong file for a different sub-model (like the A5500-F) can result in a "brick." Step 1: Download the Files
Download the ROM zip file and the appropriate GApps (Google Apps) package (usually ARM, Android version matching the ROM, Pico or Nano version) onto your microSD card or internal storage. Step 2: Boot into TWRP Recovery
Power off your tablet. Press and hold the Volume Up + Power buttons simultaneously until the TWRP logo appears. Step 3: Wipe the Device In TWRP, select Wipe. Choose Advanced Wipe and select: Dalvik / ART Cache
Note: Do not wipe Internal Storage if your ROM file is stored there. Step 4: Flash the ROM
Return to the main menu and select Install. Navigate to the folder where you saved the ROM zip file. Tap on it and swipe to confirm the flash. Step 5: Flash GApps
Once the ROM is finished, do not reboot yet. Go back to Install, select the GApps zip file, and swipe to flash. This provides the Play Store and Google services. Step 6: Reboot
After the flashes are complete, select Reboot System. The first boot can take up to 10 minutes. Be patient. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Boot Loop: If the tablet stays on the boot animation for more than 15 minutes, go back to TWRP and perform a "Factory Reset" wipe.
No SIM/Signal: Ensure you flashed a ROM specifically for the HV (Voice) version. ROMs for the "F" version do not support cellular hardware.
Wi-Fi Not Connecting: Try restarting your router or toggling Airplane mode on and off within the tablet settings.
📍 Key Takeaway: Always verify your specific model number under "About Tablet" before downloading files to ensure compatibility.
If you want to find the latest download links or compatible GApps versions: Search for "A5500-HV LineageOS XDA" Check for "MTK VCOM drivers" for PC connection Look for "TWRP 3.x for Lenovo A8-50" To help you find the right files,
Finding a custom ROM for the Lenovo A5500-HV (also known as the Lenovo Tab A8-50 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
) is possible, but options are limited because this is an older tablet based on the MediaTek MT8382 chipset. Most development for this device took place on community forums like XDA Developers several years ago. Available Custom ROM Options
While there are no official builds of modern ROMs like LineageOS, the following unofficial ports were popular:
Android 4.4.2 (KitKat) Rebuilds: Most custom ROMs for this device remain on KitKat to maintain hardware stability, especially for the 3G voice calling (HV) feature. Android 5.0/5.1 (Lollipop) Ports:
Some unofficial ports of Lollipop exist, but users often report issues with the camera or the 3G modem.
Note on "HV" vs. "H": Ensure you use a ROM specifically for the
version if you want to keep the voice calling capability. ROMs for the "H" (data only) or "F" (Wi-Fi only) variants may disable your SIM functionality. Pre-Installation Requirements
Before attempting to flash a new ROM, you must have the following tools ready:
Unlocked Bootloader: Essential for any custom recovery or ROM installation.
Custom Recovery: A working version of TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) or Carliv Touch Recovery is required to flash .zip files.
SP Flash Tool: This is the standard software used for MediaTek devices to flash the stock firmware or custom recovery if the tablet becomes "bricked."
Full Backup: Always create a "Nandroid" backup in recovery and back up your IMEI/NVRAM data, as MediaTek devices can sometimes lose their network ID during flashing. Where to Find Downloads
Because these files are hosted on older community servers, many links may be broken. The most reliable repositories are:
XDA Developers Lenovo A8-5500 Forum: This is the primary hub for
ROMs, including stock firmware and modified KitKat versions.
NeedROM: A common site for MediaTek-based firmware, though it often requires a free account to download files.
4PDA (Russian Forum): This site has the most extensive collection of ROMs for this tablet, but you will need a browser translator to navigate it.
💡 Key Point: Due to the age of the MT8382 processor, modern Android versions (Android 10+) are not available and would likely be too slow for the 1GB of RAM this device carries.
If you tell me what specific Android version or feature (like root access or removing bloatware) you are looking for, I can help you find a more specific guide.
While there isn't a single "standard" custom ROM for the Lenovo A5500-HV (also known as the Lenovo Tab A8-50 Go to product viewer dialog for this item.
), you can find community-developed builds that upgrade it significantly beyond its original Android 4.2 or 4.4 software. Available ROM Options
Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow): A CyanogenMod-based (CM) build exists for this specific model, reported to have a high success rate for compatibility. Android 7.1.2 (Nougat):
While specifically demonstrated on the similar A3500H model, similar custom ROMs often exist for the through community portals like the XDA Developers forum. General Installation Process
Installing a custom ROM on a Lenovo device typically involves these steps:
Backup Data: Use a tool like Lenovo Smart Assistant or manual methods to save your files, as this process usually wipes the device.
Unlock Bootloader: You must unlock the device's bootloader to allow unofficial software to be installed.
Flash Custom Recovery: Install a recovery environment like TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) to manage the installation of ROM files.
Wipe and Flash: From the recovery menu, wipe the existing system data and flash the downloaded ROM .zip file.
Important Warning: Flashing custom firmware is not officially advised by Lenovo and may void your warranty or "brick" your device if done incorrectly. Custom Rom on an OLD android tablet — Lenovo A3500H
By: Android Legacy Labs
The Lenovo A5500-HV, also known as the Tab A7-10, was once a budget-friendly warrior. Launched in 2014 with Android 4.2.2 (Jelly Bean), it featured a modest 1.3 GHz MediaTek MT8382 quad-core processor, 1GB of RAM, and a 1024x600 display.
Today, stock firmware on this device feels like wading through molasses. The UI lags, modern apps crash, and security patches are a decade old. However, thanks to a small but dedicated group of developers on 4PDA (Russian forums) and XDA-Developers, you can transform this $50 tablet into a usable media player, e-reader, or home automation dashboard using Custom ROMs.