Monday, April 9, 2012

Samsung Nexus S i9020a: Update to ICS 4.0.4 from 2.3.4/2.3.6 (without rooting)

Update from 2.3.4 (GTJ61)/2.3.6 (GRK39C) to 2.3.6 (GRK39F)

  1. Download this file
  2. Rename the downloaded file to update.zip
  3. Put it update.zip you have downloaded on your sd card. 
  4. Turn off your device 
  5. Go to Bootloader (press&hold volume up button then press&hold power button) 
  6. When in Fastboot mode navigate to Recovery using volume up/down buttons 
  7. Press the power key to select Recovery 
  8. If you see a warning logo, press the power button and then press volume up button then release both to go to the Main Recovery menu
  9. From the menu, select Apply update from /sdcard, and choose update.zip from the list. 
  10. When update is finished go back and select reboot system now
Update from 2.3.6 (GRK39F) to 4.0.4 (IMM76D)

  1. Download this file
  2. Use the above steps again to update.
*** The same procedure should work for other devices as well but the file would be different. You will have to find the right update file.

306 comments:

  1. That worked perfectly. I have been waiting for something like this for weeks.
    I even read somewhere where the AT&T model was unlikely to be updated. Every link with manual instructions was from 2.3.6 to ICS, but nothing for 2.3.4. So you helped a great deal. Thank you.

    ReplyDelete
  2. 2.3.6 upgrade to 4.0.4 worked as illustrated.
    Thanks so very much

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I was stuck on boot animation; I had to wipe data and do factory reset after which all went well.

      Delete
    2. hey...this update file is playing on nexus s baseband(M200KRKC1) bootloader(i9020xxka3) please tell me ?????

      Delete
    3. Thank u !!
      It is working great.

      Delete
  3. Worked. Upgraded to 2.3.6 then 4.0.4. No issues.

    ReplyDelete
  4. 2.3.4 to 2.3.6 I got 'Signature verification failed'. Anyone else?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi, If my build number is GTJ61 (AT&T Nexus S - not the 4g version), can I use this update?

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    2. Awesome, it worked like charm. Thanks so much dude!

      Delete
    3. I also have the verification error trying to upgrade from GTJ61. E: Failed to verify whole-file signature
      E: signature verification failed
      Installation aborted.

      Delete
  5. Works as advertised. Thank you for breaking it down so well. The boot animations do take a little longer to complete on the first boot up. I imagine this is because the OS is taking care of some post update housekeeping. Give it a few more minutes than you're used to. It will be worth the wait.

    Thanks again!

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  6. After the Google upgrade my camera does not activate only shows a black screen

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  7. After the Google upgrade my camera does not activate only shows a black screen

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I faced no issues after the upgrade. You will have to find the solution somewhere else.
      Thanks

      Delete
    2. I had the same. Simple reboot took care of it

      Delete
  8. AWESOME!!! I LOVE IT!
    Thank you soooo much.
    Works Just as you said!!!

    ReplyDelete
  9. Thank you so much.
    Upgraded to 2.3.6 then 4.0.4

    ReplyDelete
  10. worked like charm koodo nexus s . thank you!

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  11. Perfect! Had been waiting for the AT&T version to push...but you took care of that. Everything works great!

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  12. Awesome, it works like charm. Just follow the exact steps, you will be icecream sandwiched!
    By the way, I had the old Nexus S AT&T version (not the 4G version)

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  13. Awesome. It works great.

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  14. I followed the steps on my AT&T i9020a with 2.3.4 and everything came out looking great with 4.0.4. Thank You.

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  15. Excellent. Excellent. Excellent. I've been trying for days with various images, roots, CWM, etc, etc and all ended in frustration. I followed these instructions and had ICS in less than 5 minutes. THANK YOU.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Will try this tonight Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. after upgrade to 4.0.4 my device is unroot..is there any way to root it back..it seem this update rejected any version of su..cannot do through recovery..

      Delete
    2. I am not sure...you can search in xda-developers

      Delete
  17. My update fails when verifying the package. Anyone else have this problem and how do I fix it?

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  18. Thanks a million for this great step by step, worked fantastically!

    ReplyDelete
  19. scratch that i now have no cell signal/service please help already tried adding apn settings with no luck

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  20. Wow, thanks so much, this worked great on my unlocked i9020a. Having ICS is like having a whole new phone! Although the battery drainage does look to be a little faster than before.

    ReplyDelete
  21. My update also fails during the verification. Anyone know why?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. What is your current build number?

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    2. I think you first have to update to 2.3.6 GRK39F and then to 4.0.4.

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    3. Just curious, what is the difference between 2.3.6 GRK39C and GRK39F?

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    4. GRK39F fixed some of the bugs found in GRK39C. So 39F is the updated version of 39C

      Ari Tafari

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    5. Yea as soon as I posted this I found out. Apparently you need this update first (Http://android.clients.google.com/packages/ota/google_crespoa/0b9c8148de0d.signed-sojua-ota-189904.0b9c8148.zip)
      Haven't tried it yet. Will update when I do.

      Delete
    6. Just letting everyone that has the same problem that this worked!!! First install update in this comment then install update given on this page.

      Delete
  22. This rom just work in 850MHz??

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. This is not a custom ROM..this is officially signed update...works for the configuration described.

      Delete
  23. Guys, I did the update as stated above went very smooth except for the fact that I now have no signal(no data)(wifi only) I can put a APN in but It wont save. However when im in fastboot is says im with ATT as a carrier?, could that be the issue? I thought these files would work with any carrier as im on Rogers here in Canada.

    TIA for any help.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I am not really sure...I did it for AT&T.

      Delete
    2. Thanks for your reply if anyone whom is on Rogers and did this update please post

      Delete
  24. Guys, skip this, its problematic! If you have an i9020a, stock non rooted, c/w a locked boot loader, meaning you have a virgin device, try this, it worked absolutely flawlessly for me.
    Go into Google Service Frameworks and clear the data then immediately power off your phone, DO NOT respond to the GPS query, just power off. When you power up again, you should receive the notification direct from Google's servers, that your phone has an update to 4.0.4.
    If this doesn't work, perform the "check in" step first, then the clearing step exactly as I outlined above, remember do not reply to the query, just power off and reboot.
    The download took me 9 minutes by wifi, another5 minutes to install and ICS has been running flawlessly ever since.
    Its like having a brand new phone, I kid you not. Good luck and.enjoy...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. How do I clear it?

      Delete
    2. Go to Manage Apps, scroll down to Google Services Framework, select it, once in, clear data, then immediately power off...

      Delete
  25. JMB, "Skip this, it's problematic!"

    Perhaps you didn't read the comments (or you simply don't care). The overwhelming majority are grateful for this tutorial.

    What about those who have issues with Google's direct update? I suppose following your logic we should skip that one too.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Followed the instructions as listed - Installation aborted.Could it be that my firmaware version is GRK39C rather than GRK39F?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It failed because you are not on GRK39F

      The header says:
      Update from 2.3.6 (GRK39F) to 4.0.4 (IMM76D)

      Delete
    2. This comment has been removed by the author.

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    3. Apply the first update to go from 2.3.6 (GRK39C) to 2.3.6 (GRK39F)

      Delete
  27. I did specify GB 2.3.6 to ICS 4.0.4, and it does work flawlessly for the i9020a. Also, I do care, why do you think I posted in the first place?

    I have been running ICS for 2 days now, as stated it is like having a new phone, unfortunately there is no noticeable improvement to battery life, nor is face unlock installed. Other than those two points, I now find the whole platform much more professional looking, multitasking is phenomenal and overall speed is greatly improved.

    Overall, I am quite pleased, I only wish there were improvements to the battery life though.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Worked flawless for me as well, been running well over a week now - however I have noticed battery life has suffered quite a bit :(

    ReplyDelete
  29. Hey guys, I think that is not necessary anymore, because yestarday I receiveied the official update directly of my Nexus S, so, you could wait to. It's working very fine, with no bugs.

    ReplyDelete
  30. hey...this update file is playing on nexus s baseband(M200KRKC1) bootloader(i9020xxka3) please tell me ?????

    ReplyDelete
  31. I've been running ICS for just over 1 week, other than there being no noticeable improvement to battery life and no face unlock (who cares really) I've noticed the native browser acting strange at times, I prefer Dolphin anyway. Having played with and continuing to learn the new platform, multitasking is fantastic, everything is much faster and I'll be experimenting next with hardware acceleration which reportedly provides smoother performance.

    One person mentioned not to bother as he received his update without forcing the que well, remember this update was launched by Google sometime mid March. You can either continue to wait or force the server to recognize your device with this method and get ICS 4.0.4 on your device before going to bed tonight, its totally up to you.

    I am on Roger's north of Toronto, waited for months, did my research which resulted in this method of obtaining the "Official" update OTA.

    Guys, this comes direct from Google's server's, it keeps your phone virgin. stock - it just doesn't get any better than this.

    Good luck and enjoy, I have been

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks for your comments...just want everyone to inform that the update links in the posts are officially signed google update file...not any custom ROM.

      Delete
  32. hey...this update file is playing on nexus s baseband(M200KRKC1) bootloader(i9020xxka3) please tell me ?????

    ReplyDelete
  33. nexus s 9020A ..just got the ICS..with my phone heres what I did..cleared data in google framework..shut off phone..removed battery..then sim card.. (without puttting sim card back in)..put battery back in turn on phone..I was so excited there was the full ICS and I was on 2.3.4..Im not sure if it will work for anybody else ..but good Luck..

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. this worked perfect for me.... thanks a mill!

      Delete
    2. it worked for me but only upgraded to 2.3.6 tried again to see if it would make it to ICS but no luck

      Delete
    3. I did the clear google services steps and updated to 2.3.6 from 2.3.4

      tried it without inserting sim card and it updated but no ICS. Tried once more without sim after 2.3.6 update completed and still got no ICS so I did the manual update suggested on this page. Worked like a charm!!!

      thanks a million. ATT sucks, samsung sucks as well.

      Delete
    4. I followed the steps and got an update to 2.3.6 only. Still no ICS, I'm skeptical of doing the manual update.

      Delete
    5. You sir a genius!!! This worked for my AT&T GTJ61 which was running 2.3.4.For anyone who would rather not do the manual update do this. Both of the processes work so you can't go wrong. Thanks to both you and the OP.

      Delete
    6. Thank you very much. Removing the battery, sim and restarting did the trick. Upgraded from 2.3.4 to 4.0.4.

      Delete
    7. holy crap it works!! i cannot believe it. does that mean at&t was blocking the update till now? (it works after we remove the sim and reboot.) if that's the case, at&t is the biggest mofo ever!
      mine updated from 2.3.4(GTJ61) to 4.0.4...still cannot believe it.. :)

      Delete
    8. Wow!, Really didn't think this was gonna work. AT&T i9020a was at 2.3.6, did these steps and the update popped right up after reboot! Everything is working so far. Thanks Dude!!

      Delete
    9. OMG... i've waited so long and finally got ICS with everyone's help here! Many thanks to EVERYONE for posting links and comments. :) woot!

      Delete
  34. Shoot...I got rooted Gingerbread 2.3.7.

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  35. Installed without errors, every application works without any problems, love it! Thanx!

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  36. unzipped file, renamed, and placed on my sd, get a warning symbol when trying to recover and try to follow step 9 and apply from sd.... shows files but does not install anything? am i missing something

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  37. Installed with no problems thus far. Still haven't tried to use it, but basic functions seemed fine.

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  38. thanksssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss a lot really you are awesome :D

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  39. Dude dude.. take a bow... Hats off Man.. I've updated my Nexus S with following Config :
    baseband - I9020AUCKE1
    Build- GTJ61
    kernel 2.6.35
    to ICS all because of you.. thanks a lotttt.

    ReplyDelete
  40. gracias, gracias, works perfect

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  41. You are the best... Wow. Perfect files and clear instructions. Worked like a magic.

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  42. Excellent instructions. Now running ICS 4...

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  43. Thanks! Great instructions. I am now running on ICS on my AT&T Nexus S.

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  44. Thank you SO much for writing this procedure. It worked perfectly.

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  45. works perfectly! still have tons of space on the internal storage. I got tired of waiting (according to Samsung, we aren't getting the update).

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  46. Thanks for the tutorial. Shame on Google, AT&T and Samsung. It took less than 30 min. to update and it's working just fine. I will see how it goes from now one but I think it's perfect.

    ReplyDelete
  47. This sounds easy enough, but I was under the impression my 3G i9020A lacked an SD card.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You are correct.. In this case it appears that you would download the file to your PC and connect your Nexus via sync cable and mount as USB Storage. At that point it appears as any SD card... Someone plz correct me if i'm wrong...

      Delete
    2. You are 100% correct!!

      Delete
  48. Man.This worked like a CHARM... Couldnt ask for any clearer instructions... TY Sooooo Much.. Screw AT&T !!!!

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  49. I just wanted to say your instructions were absolutely perfect. I upgraded my AT&T Nexus S from 2.3.4 to 2.3.6 and then 4.0.4. in under 30 minutes. That was easily the quickest Android upgrade I've ever done.

    The work you did here is fantastic. Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  50. Upgraded flawlessly, and it's been working perfectly since last night... Thank you so much!!!

    ReplyDelete
  51. Wow just upgraded this way and it was really easy and went smooth. I'll have to use it for a couple of days to make sure everything is working ok but so far so food. How did I not discover this sooner?! I can't believe Google couldn't upgrade us and had to leave us AT&T Nexus S people stranded, ugh. You should accept tips for this, I really appreciate it. We might need your help again when we're not getting 4.1 Jelly Bean :)

    ReplyDelete
  52. Thanks! The entire process was smooth, and doing it was a great joy. My Nexus S now looks good, and I'm loving it...every time. It's amazing.

    ReplyDelete
  53. Awesome!....worked like charm...Thanks Guys!

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  54. Hey BD LOVER, any word on Jelly Bean for the AT&T Nexus S?

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  55. BD LOVER, thanks again for keeping it smooth with ICS for the Nexus S i9020a. Look forward for the same with JB. You're really good.

    ReplyDelete
  56. Looks like you can use the JB update file from here: http://www.randomphantasmagoria.com/firmware/nexus-s/i9020a/

    Choose "JRO03E from IMM76D"

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Thanks Brian. A bit of step by step would be greatly appreciated with much thanks.

      Delete
    2. Just follow the above steps. Did have one issue. I was getting a status 7 error in the stock recovery. So I had to root and install clockwork to flash the update.

      Delete
  57. Thanks! This process worked really well for an upgrade from 2.3.4 to 2.3.6 and then to 4.0.4 (ICS).

    I was trying to use the same process to upgrade to Jelly Bean using the images available on the link: http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1736645 but I ran into errors. I had to reboot and it did revert back to ICS, so that was good at least....

    Anyone had luck updating from 4.0.4 to the latest 4.1.1/JellyBean?

    thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The same steps from above worked for me. Cleared Google framework from the apps menu & rebooted without the sim card & there it was -- 4.1.1/JB

      Delete
    2. You cannot go from 4.0.4 to 4.1.1 without going OTA. Manual doesn't work due to a stock recovery bug, where it expects the file to be in /caches, which you can only write to if you've rooted your phone. If you haven't rooted your phone, you'll have to wipe and reload... Obviously manual puts the file in /sdcard/, which fails the check.

      Delete
    3. The 4.1.1 update was OTA! I did the ICS update weeks ago via the download. Yesterday I did what someone described above and cleared the framework file and rebooted the phone without the sim - It updated first to a newer 4.0.4 version OTA. Did the same steps again and the phone updated to 4.1.1 OTA. It worked for me. AT&T Nexus S U.S. Not rooted

      Delete
  58. I was stuck on 2.3.4 with AT&T and followed your instructions... It worked like a charm on my Nexus S, but could only go as far as 4.0.4 IMM76D (not IMM76M). Then I did some research and tried something on my wife's Nexus S, which is also stuck on 2.3.4 AT&T. I pulled her SIM and inserted one I bought in Europe (A1 Austria). Even though it doesn't work in the US, I enabled wifi and within 2 minutes it downloaded 4.0.4 IMM76M! I rebooted and it is fine. So, I tried the same on my Nexus S and it then incremented to IMM76M. As long as the phone is not using an AT&T SIM, you will get the upgrade without all the hoops. Damn AT&T!

    ReplyDelete
  59. I did the steps above and had errors just the same, following from http://www.randomphantasmagoria.com/firmware/nexus-s/i9020a/. I rebooted and, like you, I am happy to still be on ics without any problem. I did the ics update without moving the sim card. I opened the browser on my nxs and downloaded the jb file. However, for comparison assurance, I checked and saw that the ics update.zip file had the radio, but the jb was without. Also, I didn't change the file name to update.zip like I did when I downloaded the ics file on my computer. Could this be the problem? If not, what's the next best thing I should do? Thanks and much appreciation.

    ReplyDelete
  60. I should mention that I'm using my nexus i9020a on t-mobile network. Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  61. My phone isn't rooted, which made the steps above much accommodating for the ics update. You're saying here that I don't have any other options but to wait for jb ota. And how soon will it be? I occasionally check for the ota through the settings on my phone-there's none, and the reason I'm so wanting to go manually. Thanks.

    ReplyDelete
  62. I occasionally check for the OTA update through the settings on my phone, and there's none, which is the reason I'm going for the manual update. Do you know how soon we'll get the JB OTA update? Thanks.

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  63. did all the steps. Nothing changed. Nothing Happened

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  64. okay so it worked..but my network connection is gone..so i cant call or receive .wtf

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  65. Ok - I have some information that may help all of you... I was on ICS and am now receiving JB, but this should help all OTA versions:

    1) Connect your charger! This is a prerequisite
    2) Go into airplane mode
    3) Under apps->all, force stop 'Google Services framework', then delete its data (in that order)
    4) Enable wifi only (don't leave airplane mode)
    5) About->status->check for update

    You can repeat this several times if it doesn't work at first, but you don't need to remove your sim and reboot, which is a time/convenience saver.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Shouldn't it be: 5) About->system updates->check for update?
      Instead of: 5) About->status->check for update.
      Under Status it's: Phone number, signal, etc.
      Thanks.

      Delete
    2. Yes you are correct. If you look a few more posts down, you'll see I corrected it on July 24, 2012 4:37 PM

      Delete
  66. Where do you go to delete its data?

    ReplyDelete
  67. Settings->Apps and then flick the page all the way to the right (Downloaded, USB storage, Running, then All). Choose Google Services Framework from there.

    ReplyDelete
  68. I see it now, thank you! And it worked perfectly!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You're welcome. I tried several methods dozens of times, but no joy. Then I read somewhere that connecting your charger triggers the process. Go figure. Are you now on ICS or JB?

      Delete
  69. do i just drag update.zip into any particular folder or just drop it where all the other phone files are?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Put it in the root, otherwise you may not see it in recovery mode. Only a handful of directories are listed.

      Delete
    2. I meant root of your sdcard

      Delete
  70. In case anyone missed it, here's another way that is confirmed to work:

    1) Connect your charger! This is a prerequisite
    2) Go into airplane mode
    3) Under settings->apps->all (scroll the page to the left if using ICS), select 'Google Services framework', force stop it and then delete its data (in that order)
    4) Enable wifi only (don't leave airplane mode)
    5) Settings->about->system updates->check for update. If you don't have a checkin button, dial this on your phone and press send: *#*#CHECKIN#*#* or *#*#2432546#*#*

    You can repeat this several times if it doesn't work at first, but you don't need to remove your sim and reboot, which is a time/convenience saver.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. do i "clear data" or "clear cache"

      Delete
    2. Clear data. It's working via the manual update or OTA?

      Delete
    3. Awesome! That got me from 2.3.4 to 4.0.4. I was thinking the same thing would apply to 4.0.4 to 4.1.1 but now I can't find Google Services Framework on the new version of the OS...

      I have an i9020a (the AT&T 3G version), are others only getting to 4.0.4 as well?

      Delete
    4. The same procedure from 4.0.4 to 4.1.1 applies. The trick is that when you go to settings->apps, you'll have to flick the screen using a leftward motion until you get to the "all" page. There you'll find Google Services Framework. I too have AT&T 3G i9020a and I'm on 4.1.1 with this procedure. Just repeat it.

      Delete
    5. Thanks! I got to ICS without any problems but jelly bean would download but never install. Only when i connected my charger did it finally do the update (i had like 70% battery on the ics update but the jelly bean would not take until i connected the charger)

      Thanks!

      Delete
    6. Great! I have Jelly Bean woohoo!!!!

      After a couple of tries I got the update!

      Important thing is to leave airplane mode on (i was turning it off when turning on the wifi...oopsie!)

      Delete
    7. I repeated the steps eleven times but was unsuccessful. What should I do next? Much thanks and appreciation.

      Delete
    8. Once I stopped the framework and cleared the data. I checked the Google Play website and my phone was not listed there as one of my devices and I had a hard time to add my phone again. Can someone check if it's happening when using this method as well.

      Delete
    9. Framework is a service that normally runs in the background. When you stop the framework and clear the data, you are removing a cookie that is left on your phone which contains the date you will receive your OS update. Otherwise you can checkin till you're blue in the face... Once the service starts (by checking in or rebooting), you have to use your phone as you normally would and let it register itself with Google so that it can be seen as one of your listed devices. The condition you described is normal and should correct itself - you shouldn't have to fight getting it relisted.

      Delete
    10. If I don't get the OTA update in one week, I will try to update manually. Thanks for the answer on the framework thing. :)

      Delete
  71. You rock, thank you for these simple, clear instructions!

    ReplyDelete
  72. Ok first of all - great step by step!!!
    I upgraded from 2.3.4 to 4.0.4 in less than 10 minutes. I'm loving everything about the 4.0.4 from the initial animation to the navigation of the phone..... can't wait to get the jelly bean now....

    Thanks, thanks, thanks!!!!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Be sure to connect your charger and repeat. It won't work without it

      Delete
  73. I am glad this is working for all of you. I thought I'd be stuck on 2.3.4 forever, since google searches for 'Nexus S ICE' turned up short. Then I started searching for GTJ61 and realized I could have been on ICS since April. Once I got to ICS, I couldn't get to 4.1.1 due to a recovery manager bug that won't allow manual updates, hence more research. So for those of you who may have missed the procedure (as this thread gets longer) go to http://tech-tips-solution.blogspot.com/2012/04/samsung-nexus-s-i9020a-update-to-ics.html?showComment=1343162256258&m=1#c7226590475535932882

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hmmm. Links don't work. Ok - I'll just repeat July 24, 2012 4:37 PM. BTW - F*ck Apple!

      1) Connect your charger! This is a prerequisite
      2) Go into airplane mode
      3) Under settings->apps->all (scroll the page to the left if using ICS), select 'Google Services framework', force stop it and then delete its data (in that order)
      4) Enable wifi only (don't leave airplane mode)
      5) Settings->about->system updates->check for update. If you don't have a checkin button, dial this on your phone and press send: *#*#CHECKIN#*#* or *#*#2432546#*#*

      You can repeat this several times if it doesn't work at first, but you don't need to remove your sim and reboot, which is a time/convenience saver.

      Delete
  74. Download Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean (JRO03E) [Direct Download – Google]. This .zip file is for update to Jelly Bean from Android 4.0.4 (Build: IMM76D) on Nexus S models i9020T / i9023. Some users have reported that this .zip file also works on i9020A, even though it’s not supposed to.
    Place this directly under /sdcard on your Nexus S’s internal storage.
    WARNING: DO NOT use this .zip file if you are not on Android 4.0.4 with the specific build number previously mentioned.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Where's the link? O_o

      Delete
    2. VMA. I did the "Download Android 4.1.1 Jelly Bean (JRO03E) [Direct Download – Google]" as you reccommended but got and error. My NX S is the unlocked i9020A, and I'm using it on the T-Mobile network. You said that "Some users have reported that this .zip file also works on i9020A, even though it’s not supposed to." It didn't work for me. Do you know another I could try? I also did the "Force Stop" mentioned above but got an error just the same. My phone isn't rooted. Thanks, and much appreciation.

      Delete
  75. I upgraded to 2.3.6 with no issues following the instructions and when I got to the reboot step for 4.0.1 my phone shut off and now will not boot up nor can I get to the bootloader.

    Any tips? Please? I'm just an average girl who occassionally gets her geek on and am totally lost at this point.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. alright then. I'm forced to go get a Samsung Galaxy S III today then :)

      Delete
    2. Remove battery for a few seconds and install it back and power on phone. Good Luck !

      Delete
    3. Good tip. If that doesn't work, remove battery and leave it out. Plug in charger and start up phone. If it boots up, shut it down and remove charger - then put the battery back in.

      Delete
  76. Below is the error information I got after the failed attempt to update from ICS to JB. The file I downloaded was: "cSw0yuoF"
    ...
    Installing update...
    assert failed: file_getprop("/system/build.prop". "ro.build.fingerprint") == "google/sojua/crespo:4.0.4/IMM76M/367151:user/release-keys" || file_getprop("/system/build.prop". "ro,build.fingerprint") == "google/sojua/crespo:4.1.1/JR003E:Error in /tm/sideload/package.zip
    (Status 7)
    Installation aborted.

    Much thanks and appreciation for any help with the update.

    ReplyDelete
  77. Your best bet, once you are on 4.0.4, is to use the OTA procedure. That's because there is a known bug in the recovery where you'll get an error. I too was stuck, but the following worked for me and many others. In fact, you can go from 2.3.4 to 4.1.1 (incrementally of course), without downloading anything or using recovery. Here it is:

    1) Connect your charger! This is a prerequisite
    2) Go into airplane mode
    3) Under settings->apps->all (scroll the page to the left if using ICS), select 'Google Services framework', force stop it and then delete its data (in that order)
    4) Enable wifi only (don't leave airplane mode)
    5) Settings->about->system updates->check for update. If you don't have a checkin button, dial this on your phone and press send: *#*#CHECKIN#*#* or *#*#2432546#*#*

    You can repeat this several times if it doesn't work at first, but you don't need to remove your sim and reboot, which is a time/convenience saver.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I did this several times yesterday and today but was unsuccessful. That's the reason I tried the download. The update to ICS 4.0.4 from 2.3.4/2.3.6 (without rooting) above was smooth and flawless. I was hoping for the same here. I guess I'll have to try again several times and hope that it comes through. Thanks for the support, and with much appreciation.

      Delete
    2. Are you now on 4.0.4 IMM76D or IMM76M? You cannot go to 4.1.1 OTA unless you're on IMM76M first. Also, be absolutely sure your battery is charged AND connect the charger. The update service looks for the charger, otherwise no dice.

      Delete
    3. I am on 4.0.4 IMM76D and not IMM76M. Also, my battery is fully charged and the charger plugged in. What's the easiest way to get on 4.0.4 IMM76M? Thanks. Much appreciation.

      Delete
    4. I should mention that I tried to get 4.0.4 IMM76M from this link http://android.clients.google.com/pa...a/q1-YQR3w.zip. but got the Status 7 error. Thanks, your help is surely appreciated.

      Delete
    5. Once you are on 4.0.4, downloading and installing will no longer work. You'll have to use OTA to get IMM76M first, then repeat for 4.1.1

      Delete
    6. Thanks. I did try OTA (Force Close/Clear Data etc. many times) to get IMM76M. Is there another way other than the previous mentioned? Much appreciation for your unstinted support.

      Delete
  78. Thanks! This process worked really well for an upgrade my AT&T 19202A Nexus S from 2.3.4 to 2.3.6 and then to 4.0.4 (ICS). We are lucky to have great people like you!!

    ReplyDelete
  79. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  80. BD Lover, can you review this links and see if it could be possiable to go from 4.0.4 (IMM76D) to 4.1.1 (JRO03E) like it says using your listed steps?

    http://www.randomphantasmagoria.com/firmware/nexus-s/i9020a/

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. It does not work..gives an error while updating:(

      Delete
    2. You MUST use OTA to go from 4.0.4 to 4.1.1. There's a bug in the recovery manager that won't let you do it. However, I personally devised and tested the method I've been repeating here over and over that got me all the way from 2.3.4 to 4.1.1 on i9020a. I believe this has worked for many others too:

      1) Connect your charger! This is a prerequisite
      2) Go into airplane mode
      3) Under settings->apps->all (scroll the page to the left if using ICS), select 'Google Services framework', force stop it and then delete its data (in that order)
      4) Enable wifi only (don't leave airplane mode)
      5) Settings->about->system updates->check for update. If you don't have a checkin button, dial this on your phone and press send: *#*#CHECKIN#*#* or *#*#2432546#*#*

      Delete
  81. Thank you soooo much!

    ReplyDelete
  82. Followed instructions on stock i9020a. Worked perfectly! Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  83. THIS WORKED PERFECTLY! THANKS A HUNDRED TIMES OVER!

    ReplyDelete
  84. Hey, BD Lover... Can you add my solution to yours at the top as a sticky? The thread gets long an people miss out on my great find which can do it OTA. This should help those who are afraid to do the recovery or need 4.1.1.

    ReplyDelete
  85. Thanks. That was really helpful.

    ReplyDelete
  86. Hi guys, thanks in advance for the support. I need help with this information that will get me to JB 4.1.1. I have to go to https://developers.google.com/android/nexus/images (no problem with this) to download the Google stock factory images and flash bootloader, radio, and *.zip interspersed with a reboot-bootloader between each flash. I've done other instructions as mentioned above, and now intend to try with another. Can anyone share details on doing this, and how to use the adb mode to flash images? Much thanks and appreciation.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. From the link you posted: "Note that this operation deletes all user data by default." This is the factory image and not the update file. This one will reinstall the OS like it was new, the update file will just update the OS and keep the data.

      Delete
    2. I would rather not have my data deleted, unless it's the only thing that can be done to get the update. I'll wait a bit for the update file to be posted. Much thanks and appreciation.

      Delete
    3. The update will not be posted online because there's a bug when trying to update. And I don't think AT&T will ever release this update because they didn't release the update to Android 4.0. Some people could update by just clearing data from the system framework, going in airplane mode, plugging the device to charge and checking for update. (I don't think this will work but some people are saying they got the update this way, try for yourself).

      So, this leaves us with 2 options, wait a little longer to see if something else might show up or backup everything that is in your phone and flash this image. If I don't find any other way to get Android 4.1 in one or two months, I will flash it. I just don't like this hassle to get a freaking update that is already out.

      Delete
    4. Thanks and much appreciation. I feel the same and would rather wait a bit. I'd done the "clearing data from the system framework, going in airplane mode, plugging the device to charge and checking for update" many times. If nothing is available in the next couple months, I will wipe and flash. The hassle is definitely not favored in my psyche.

      Delete
  87. Um... how stupid am I? The Nexus S does not have an SD Card slot, so how in the hell are you supposed to load something from the SD card?

    I'm astonished that 99% of you understand these directions.

    What the hell does - "Put it update.zip you have downloaded on your sd card." even mean?

    I just got the At&t version of this phone, and none of the OTA update methods have done anything for me.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Nexus S has mirco-sd card and a card should be there. If you don't, you will have to buy one.
      You have to copy the file in sdcard, you can install 'Astro File Manager' for file transfer.

      Delete
    2. ...this phone does not have a micro SD card slot. Samsung Nexus S i9020A, right? Nothing there. I don't see it anywhere on my phone, and the internet tells me that there isn't one with this phone...all the storage is internal.

      I don't get it. Do I just rub my SD card on the back of the phone and say a silent prayer or something?

      Delete
    3. You are both right. The sd card slot does not exist - this is true. Instead, the 16GB sd card is built-in (permanently soldered as a chip), but at the end of the day, it shows up as /sdcard within any file manager. From Android perspective, it cannot tell the difference between being built-in or having been installed as an "sd-card".

      Delete
    4. Now I see why 99% of us DO understand these instructions. Sorry about the OTA update not working for you. Do you have stock i9020a with 2.3.4?

      Delete
    5. Yeah, everything on the phone is stock. 2.3.4 I just got it with a new contract at AT&T yesterday. I got it free on the contract because it was new/old stock, and I decided to choose it because I assumed I'd be able to at least get to ICS right away.

      The part about the SD card that I'm not getting, is even if while internally mounted, and showing up as an sd card, how do I get these "updates" or this zip file on the card?

      Are we talking about hooking the phone up to the computer via USB, and dragging and dropping?

      Delete
    6. That's one way. Another is using oi file manager. It can move the update from /sdcard/download to the root of /sdcard/ when you use recovery, you'll see it in the root of sdcard/ to do the update.

      Delete
  88. Thank you for ending months of frustration! Worked great on AT&T Nexus S that was running 2.3.6.

    For the SD card questions :
    1. Downloaded the zip file onto my PC and renamed it to update.zip
    2. Plugged my phone into my PC using the USB cable
    3. Enabled USB Storage ( pulled down status/notification bar )
    4. On my PCs file explorer/finder double clicked and opened the phone ( mounted as a storage device)
    5. Dragged and dropped the update.zip into the top level folder that was opened in previos step.
    6. Followed directions above.
    7. Lo and behold!... the long awaited, beauty of ICS. :)

    Thanks again to tech-tips-solution!

    ReplyDelete
  89. Guys, thanks in advance. I am on 4.0.4 IMM76D and can't get through with the manual OTA JB update unless I am on 4.0.4 IMM76M. Can I just flash the factory images for JB to get on 4.0.4 IMM76M? I thought it would have been smooth and easy getting on JB (without rooting) like it was from GB 2.3.4 to ICS 4.0.4 IMM76D, following from above.
    Much thanks and appreciation to BD Lover and Anonymous for the support you've given, and also to the forum.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You can do it following the instructions here: https://developers.google.com/android/nexus/images

      The only problem is that it will "deletes all user data by default." I'm still waiting a little longer and trying other methods first but if it doesn't work, I will have to use the factory image. :(

      Delete
    2. I guess that will mean I'll have to reset all my user data. And if yes, does resetting the user data mean that it will be like when I first boot up the phone from out of the box? Perhaps I may also wait a bit longer for other methods just the same. Much thanks and appreciation.

      Delete
    3. Yes, it will be like new. And if you are going to flash an image to the phone, why flash to another 4.0 in order to get the 4.1 OTA if you can go directly to Android 4.1?!

      Delete
  90. JUMPING up and down here! THANK YOU SO MUCH, I was starting to lose hope! Next step is getting the Jelly Beans

    ReplyDelete
  91. I have tried the OTA method many times (over many days). I have tried an alternative OTA approach (but very similar) found elsewhere but involves removing the sim. Neither approach succeed, my system always says it is up to date? Could there be some other data that my phone is hanging on to that prevents it from working?

    I did finally use the download method (basis of this blog) to update from 2.3.4 to 2.3.6, but I have not gone any further using that method as my end goal is JB 4.1.1, so I need to get OTA working to get there.

    Any ideas on why the OTA just won't work for me, or how to finally get it to?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If I find anything I will let you know. I think this has been an issue in only 2 cases thus far, with everyone else reporting success with OTA.

      Delete
    2. I still can't get this to work. I've noticed that with airplane mode on, and with the sim removed, when I boot into the boot loader it still shows the carrier as AT&T. Could it be that this is what is preventing the update? The phone still knows it is on AT&T? Is there someway to make it so that when I boot into the boot loader it does not say that the carrier is AT&T?

      Delete
  92. Doesn't work. Not sure if being on Fido has something to do with it. Says "E:signature verification failed"

    ReplyDelete
  93. Works Great. Can I do the same thing to get 4.1.1?

    ReplyDelete
  94. @OP: Really really appreciate your post. I was too scared to manually upgrade with custom ROMS... but this was as simple as it gets!

    WORKS LIKE A CHARM!!! THANK YOU. WILL GET SG3 FOR THANKSGIVING :)

    ReplyDelete
  95. Awesome it worked perfectly, thank you so much! Now is there a one of these for Jelly Bean yet???

    ReplyDelete
  96. The phone must be root? or does it matter? I'm going down the upgrade from 2.3.4 to 2.3.6 then to 4.0.1 to see that just tell them, I bought the phone used by ebay.com in, I live in Venezuela! let's see how it goes ..

    ReplyDelete
  97. I have noticed that some fitness apps that require GPS (Strava, Google My Tracks) don't work since upgrading through this method to Android 4. Pretty frustrating and ridiculous that us AT&T Nexus S owners can't get a standard way to upgrade to the latest version of Android. This is the last straw for me with Android. I've had it with the fragmentation and poor quality. I'm going back to the iPhone when iPhone 5 comes out and I won't be recommending Android to anyone going forward.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The iPhone5 is DOA, playing catch up with last years specs. The lawsuit proves Apple jumped the shark: Innovate or Litigate.

      GPS doesn't work indoors, so just enable the option for location based on WiFi to assist triangulation and stop fantasizing about Apple. Their stuff doesn't break because it doesn't do anything either. Remember this: I've never lost a game of chess to Gary Kasparov, ever! The fact that I've never played him has nothing to do with it.... :-)

      Delete
  98. This worked amazing - I just got it about an hour ago and I'm loving it. I got it with i9020a with Rogers

    ReplyDelete
  99. Thank you sooo much. This is the only upgrade for Build GTJ61 that has worked. Thank you very, very much.

    ReplyDelete
  100. I try to download the file but I don't know why it doesn't let me, it keeps failing every time I try to download. Is there another website to update my android?

    ReplyDelete
  101. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! Works just as promised!
    I was on 2.3.4 so I had to download both files but it took less than 20 min and works brilliantly!! It is just like having a new phone.

    ReplyDelete
  102. Thank you. I bought my Nexus S I9020a at Best Buy and it was running Gingerbread 2.34(GTJ61) until today. Thanks for the ICS update. It worked just like you wrote.

    ReplyDelete