How to Install LineageOS on Google Pixel 9A

Unlock a bloatware-free, privacy-focused Android experience with this detailed guide to installing LineageOS on your Google Pixel 9A.

Why Choose LineageOS for Your Google Pixel 9A?

LineageOS is a powerful custom ROM that transforms your Google Pixel 9A into a highly customizable, bloatware-free device. Built on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP), it offers enhanced privacy, regular security updates, and a clean interface, making it a favorite among Android enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to extend your device's lifespan or explore advanced Android customization, installing LineageOS on your Pixel 9A is a game-changer.

This guide provides a clear, beginner-friendly path to flash LineageOS, ensuring your Google Pixel 9A runs smoothly with the latest Android 15-based LineageOS 22. Let’s dive into the process!

Prerequisites for Installing LineageOS

Before you begin, gather these essentials to ensure a smooth LineageOS installation:

Google Pixel 9A with Android 15 firmware (check your device’s firmware version in Settings > About Phone).
Computer with Windows, macOS, or Linux.
USB-C cable for connecting your Pixel 9A to your computer.
ADB and Fastboot tools installed on your computer (download from Google’s official SDK Platform Tools page).
LineageOS ROM for Pixel 9A (download from the official LineageOS website).
LineageOS Recovery (vendor_boot.img, available on the LineageOS download page).
Optional: Google Apps (GApps) package for ARM64 Android 15 (download from a trusted source like OpenGApps).
Backup of all important data, as unlocking the bootloader wipes your device.

Warning: Installing a custom ROM voids your warranty and erases all data. Back up your photos, contacts, and files to a secure location before proceeding.

Step-by-Step Guide to Install LineageOS on Google Pixel 9A

Follow these steps carefully to flash LineageOS on your Google Pixel 9A. This guide is tailored for the Pixel 9A, ensuring a seamless Android customization experience.

Step 1: Back Up Your Data

Since unlocking the bootloader wipes your device, back up all important data. Use Google Drive, a local computer backup, or an external storage device to save your photos, videos, and apps.

Step 2: Enable Developer Options and USB Debugging

To communicate with your Pixel 9A via your computer, enable Developer Options:

Go to Settings > About Phone.
Tap Build Number seven times until you see “You are now a developer!”
Return to Settings > System > Developer Options.
Enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking.

Step 3: Install ADB and Fastboot

Download and install ADB and Fastboot tools from Google’s SDK Platform Tools page. Extract the files to a folder on your computer (e.g., C:\platform-tools on Windows). Add this folder to your system’s PATH for easy command-line access.

Step 4: Unlock the Bootloader

Unlocking the bootloader is essential for flashing a custom ROM:

Power off your Pixel 9A.
Enter bootloader mode by holding Volume Down + Power until the bootloader screen appears.
Connect your Pixel 9A to your computer via USB-C.
Open a command prompt or terminal in the platform-tools folder.
Type fastboot devices to confirm your device is detected.
Run fastboot flashing unlock. Confirm the unlock on your device’s screen using the volume and power buttons.

Warning: Unlocking the bootloader erases all data. Ensure your backup is complete before proceeding.

Step 5: Download LineageOS and Recovery Files

Visit the official LineageOS website and download the LineageOS 22 ZIP file for the Google Pixel 9A (codename may vary; check the device list). Also, download the LineageOS Recovery file (vendor_boot.img). Optionally, download the GApps package if you want Google Play Store and other Google services.

Move all downloaded files to the platform-tools folder on your computer for easy access.

Step 6: Flash LineageOS Recovery

Flash the custom recovery to your Pixel 9A:

With your device in bootloader mode, run:

fastboot flash vendor_boot vendor_boot.img

Reboot to recovery mode by selecting “Recovery Mode” using the volume keys and pressing the power button.

Step 7: Factory Reset

In LineageOS Recovery, select Factory Reset to wipe data, cache, and system partitions. This ensures a clean install and removes encryption from the stock ROM.

Step 8: Flash LineageOS ROM

Install the LineageOS ROM using ADB sideload:

In LineageOS Recovery, select Apply Update > Apply from ADB.
On your computer, run:
```
adb sideload lineage-22.0-xxxxxxxx-nightly-codename-signed.zip
```
(Replace with the actual filename of the LineageOS ZIP).
Wait for the sideload to complete (it may pause at 47%, which is normal).

Step 9: Flash GApps (Optional)

If you want Google Play Store and other Google apps, flash the GApps package:

Reboot to recovery from the recovery menu.
Select Apply Update > Apply from ADB.

Run:

adb sideload open_gapps-arm64-15.0-nano-xxxxxxxx.zip

(Replace with the actual GApps filename).

Ignore any “Signature verification failed” warnings, as this is expected.

Step 10: Reboot and Set Up

In LineageOS Recovery, select Reboot system now. The first boot may take up to 15 minutes. Once booted, follow the on-screen setup to configure your Pixel 9A with LineageOS.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed LineageOS on your Google Pixel 9A, unlocking a world of Android customization and privacy.

Tips for a Smooth LineageOS Experience

Regular Updates: Check the LineageOS website for nightly builds to keep your ROM updated with the latest security patches.
Customization: Explore LineageOS settings for themes, gestures, and privacy controls to tailor your Pixel 9A experience.
Community Support: Join the LineageOS subreddit or Discord for troubleshooting and tips from other users.
Backup Regularly: Use LineageOS Recovery to create backups before applying updates or making changes.

Common Issues and Fixes

If you encounter issues during the LineageOS installation:

Device Not Detected: Ensure USB drivers are installed and USB debugging is enabled.
Bootloop: Reboot to recovery and reflash the ROM. Ensure you’re using the correct files for the Pixel 9A.
GApps Errors: Verify the GApps package matches Android 15 and ARM64 architecture.

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