Earlier we told you that Android 4.4.1 was rolling out to the Nexus 5. Now as promised, we’ve got the update URL straight from Google’s servers. We’ve also uploaded a mirror if you need it. The zip file is about 53.9MB in size. This is build KOT49E. Now for those that are looking to get the update right now, we do have sideloading instructions which works if you are not rooted and have the stock recovery. Oh and you have to be on build KRT16M.
To get started you’ll need to have the Android SDK installed. Which isn’t hard. Then connect your phone to your computer and make sure USB debugging is enabled. I’ve found that sometimes it can’t find my device via ADB when it’s connected as MTP, but it always finds it when connected as PTP. Once you’ve connected it, simply type “adb devices” in the command prompt. You may have to authorize it from your phone. You should see a serial number along with “device”. Next simply type “adb reboot bootloader”. This will reboot your phone into bootloader mode as you probably figured out. Next you’ll use the volume and power buttons to restart into recovery, and then select “Apply update from ADB”. Then press power to choose it. Now you’ll jump back to your PC and type in “adb sideload filename.zip”. I usually rename the file to KOT39E.zip and put it into the platform-tools folder in the SDK. That way it doesn’t get confusing when sideloading future updates. Now if you’re ADB is working correctly, it should transfer it to your device and update your device.
It’s just that simple. Now those that don’t want to do all of that, you should be getting the OTA very soon. The last OTA, albeit small, was very quick at showing up on my device. So I’m hoping it’s the same for this one. At this time, factory images still are not available. We’ll let you know when they are.
Download: KOT49E from Google