Downgrading from Lollipop to KitKat on Moto G: Step-by-Step Guide

Backup your data

Before embarking on the process of downgrading your Moto G from Lollipop to KitKat, it's crucial to safeguard your data. This step ensures that your personal information, apps, and settings are preserved in case of any unexpected data loss during the downgrade process. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to back up your data effectively:

1. Backing up your personal data:

Photos and Videos: Transfer your photos and videos from your device to a computer or cloud storage service. Services like Google Photos, Dropbox, or OneDrive offer seamless backup options for your media files.
Documents and Files: Use a file manager app to copy important documents and files from your device to an external storage device or cloud storage.

2. Backing up app data and settings:

Google Account: Ensure that your device is synced with your Google account to back up your app data, Wi-Fi passwords, and other settings. This can be done by navigating to Settings > Accounts > Google and enabling the backup options.
Third-Party Backup Apps: Consider using third-party backup apps like Helium, Titanium Backup, or Swift Backup to create a comprehensive backup of your app data and settings. These apps offer advanced backup options, including the ability to back up app data without root access.

3. Saving your contacts and messages:

Contacts: Sync your contacts with your Google account to ensure they are backed up to the cloud. This can be done by going to Contacts > Settings > Contacts to Display > All Contacts, and then selecting your Google account for contact syncing.
Messages: If you need to back up your text messages, consider using SMS backup apps available on the Google Play Store. These apps allow you to create a backup of your SMS and MMS messages, which can be restored later.

4. Note down important settings and preferences:

Take note of your device's settings, including app preferences, home screen layout, and system settings. This will help you recreate your preferred setup after the downgrade process.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your personal data, app settings, and preferences are securely backed up before proceeding with the downgrade process. Taking the time to back up your data will provide peace of mind and safeguard your information throughout the transition from Lollipop to KitKat.

Download the necessary files

To initiate the process of downgrading your Moto G from Lollipop to KitKat, you'll need to download specific files essential for the firmware flashing. These files include the official KitKat firmware for your Moto G model, as well as the necessary tools to facilitate the flashing process. Here's a detailed guide on acquiring the essential files for the downgrade:

Official KitKat Firmware: Begin by identifying the correct official KitKat firmware for your specific Moto G model. Visit the official Motorola website or trusted third-party firmware repositories to locate and download the appropriate firmware file. Ensure that the firmware version is compatible with your device's model and variant to avoid any compatibility issues during the downgrade process.
USB Drivers: Download and install the latest USB drivers for your Moto G on your computer. These drivers are essential for establishing a stable connection between your device and the computer during the firmware flashing process. You can obtain the official USB drivers from the Motorola website or reputable third-party sources.
Fastboot and ADB Tools: Obtain the Fastboot and ADB tools, which are crucial for executing commands and flashing the firmware on your Moto G. These tools enable communication between your computer and the device while in bootloader mode. You can download the Fastboot and ADB tools as part of the Android SDK platform tools package or opt for standalone packages available from trusted sources.
Backup Files: As a precautionary measure, it's advisable to create a backup of the downloaded firmware, USB drivers, and Fastboot/ADB tools on your computer. This ensures that you have a secure copy of the necessary files in case of any unforeseen issues during the downgrade process.

By obtaining these essential files, you'll be equipped with the prerequisites needed to proceed with the subsequent steps of downgrading your Moto G from Lollipop to KitKat. Ensuring that you have the correct firmware, USB drivers, and essential tools downloaded and readily available sets the stage for a smooth and successful firmware flashing process.

Enable USB debugging

Enabling USB debugging on your Moto G is a crucial preparatory step before initiating the firmware flashing process. USB debugging allows your device to communicate with the computer via a USB connection and enables the execution of advanced commands for firmware flashing and debugging purposes. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to enable USB debugging on your Moto G running Lollipop:

Access Developer Options: To begin, navigate to the "Settings" app on your Moto G and scroll down to locate the "About phone" section. Tap on "About phone" to access detailed information about your device.
Tap Build Number: In the "About phone" section, locate the "Build number" entry. Tap on the "Build number" multiple times (usually seven times) in quick succession. As you do this, you'll notice a message indicating that you are now a developer.
Return to Settings: After tapping the "Build number" multiple times, navigate back to the main "Settings" menu. You should now see a new entry labeled "Developer options" or "Developer settings" listed among the other settings options.
Access Developer Options: Tap on "Developer options" to access a range of advanced settings tailored for developers and advanced users. These settings provide granular control over various aspects of the device's behavior and functionality.
Enable USB Debugging: Within the "Developer options" menu, locate the "USB debugging" option. It is typically found under the "Debugging" or "Debugging tools" section. Toggle the switch or checkbox next to "USB debugging" to enable this feature.
Grant Permission: Upon enabling USB debugging, a prompt may appear requesting permission to allow USB debugging when connected to a computer. Confirm the prompt by selecting "OK" or "Allow" to grant the necessary permissions.

By following these steps, you have successfully enabled USB debugging on your Moto G running Lollipop. This sets the stage for establishing a secure and efficient connection between your device and the computer during the subsequent stages of the firmware flashing process. With USB debugging enabled, you are now ready to proceed with unlocking the bootloader and executing the firmware downgrade to KitKat.

Unlock the bootloader

Unlocking the bootloader of your Moto G is a pivotal step in the process of downgrading from Lollipop to KitKat. The bootloader, a fundamental component of the device's firmware, plays a critical role in initiating the operating system and executing the necessary boot sequences. By unlocking the bootloader, you gain the ability to modify the device's firmware, enabling the installation of custom ROMs and the execution of advanced commands during the firmware flashing process. Here's a detailed guide on unlocking the bootloader of your Moto G:

Backup Your Data: Before proceeding with the bootloader unlocking process, ensure that you have backed up all essential data from your device. This includes personal files, app data, and settings, as unlocking the bootloader may result in a complete wipe of the device's data.
Power Off Your Device: Begin by powering off your Moto G to prepare for the bootloader unlocking process. Ensure that the device is completely powered down before proceeding to the next steps.
Boot into Bootloader Mode: To access the bootloader mode, press and hold the volume down button and the power button simultaneously for a few seconds. This action will initiate the bootloader mode, providing access to the device's bootloader and related settings.
Connect Your Device to the Computer: Using a USB cable, establish a connection between your Moto G and the computer. Ensure that the USB debugging mode is enabled on your device to facilitate communication with the computer during the bootloader unlocking process.
Launch ADB and Fastboot: Open a command prompt or terminal window on your computer and navigate to the directory where the ADB and Fastboot tools are located. These tools are essential for executing commands to unlock the bootloader of your Moto G.
Verify Device Connectivity: In the command prompt or terminal window, enter the command "fastboot devices" to verify that your Moto G is successfully recognized by the Fastboot tool. If your device is listed, it indicates that the connection between the device and the computer is established.
Initiate Bootloader Unlocking: Execute the command "fastboot oem unlock" in the command prompt or terminal window to initiate the bootloader unlocking process. This command triggers the bootloader unlocking sequence on your Moto G.
Follow On-Screen Instructions: Upon executing the bootloader unlocking command, your device may display a prompt seeking confirmation to unlock the bootloader. Use the volume keys to navigate and the power button to confirm the action. It's important to note that unlocking the bootloader may void the device's warranty and result in the erasure of all data.
Reboot Your Device: After successfully unlocking the bootloader, reboot your Moto G by entering the command "fastboot reboot" in the command prompt or terminal window. This action will restart the device and complete the bootloader unlocking process.

By following these steps, you have successfully unlocked the bootloader of your Moto G, paving the way for the subsequent stages of downgrading from Lollipop to KitKat. The unlocked bootloader grants you the flexibility to modify the device's firmware and proceed with flashing the KitKat firmware, ultimately transitioning your device to the desired operating system version.

Install ADB and Fastboot on your computer

Installing ADB (Android Debug Bridge) and Fastboot on your computer is an essential prerequisite for executing advanced commands and facilitating communication between your Moto G and the computer during the firmware flashing process. ADB and Fastboot are versatile tools that enable users to interact with Android devices at a low level, allowing for tasks such as installing apps, transferring files, and unlocking the bootloader. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to install ADB and Fastboot on your computer:

Download the Android SDK Platform Tools: Begin by obtaining the Android SDK Platform Tools package, which includes ADB and Fastboot. This package is available for download from the official Android developer website. Alternatively, standalone versions of ADB and Fastboot can be sourced from reputable third-party sources.
Extract the Platform Tools Package: Once the Android SDK Platform Tools package is downloaded, extract the contents to a location on your computer. It's recommended to create a dedicated directory for ADB and Fastboot, ensuring easy access to the tools when executing commands.
Add the Tools Directory to the System Path: To streamline the usage of ADB and Fastboot from the command line, add the directory containing the extracted tools to the system's PATH environment variable. This allows you to execute ADB and Fastboot commands from any location in the command prompt or terminal window.
Verify the Installation: After adding the tools directory to the system path, open a command prompt or terminal window and enter the command "adb version" to verify the successful installation of ADB. Similarly, execute the command "fastboot devices" to confirm the installation and recognition of Fastboot.
Install USB Drivers (if necessary): Depending on your computer's operating system, you may need to install specific USB drivers to ensure seamless communication between your Moto G and the computer. Official USB drivers for Motorola devices can be obtained from the manufacturer's website.

By following these steps, you have successfully installed ADB and Fastboot on your computer, equipping yourself with the necessary tools to interact with your Moto G at a low level and proceed with the subsequent stages of downgrading from Lollipop to KitKat. The installation of ADB and Fastboot sets the stage for executing advanced commands and flashing the KitKat firmware, ultimately facilitating the transition to the desired operating system version.

Flash the KitKat firmware

Flashing the KitKat firmware on your Moto G is a critical step in the process of downgrading from Lollipop to KitKat. This step involves replacing the existing operating system with the desired KitKat firmware, effectively transitioning your device to the earlier Android version. Here's a detailed guide on how to flash the KitKat firmware onto your Moto G:

Prepare the Firmware Files: Begin by ensuring that you have the necessary KitKat firmware files downloaded and accessible on your computer. Verify that the firmware file is compatible with your Moto G model and variant to avoid any potential compatibility issues during the flashing process.
Boot into Bootloader Mode: Power off your Moto G and boot it into bootloader mode by pressing and holding the volume down button and the power button simultaneously. This action will grant access to the device's bootloader and prepare it for the firmware flashing process.
Connect Your Device: Using a USB cable, establish a secure connection between your Moto G and the computer. Ensure that USB debugging is enabled on your device to facilitate communication during the firmware flashing process.
Launch ADB and Fastboot: Open a command prompt or terminal window on your computer and navigate to the directory where the ADB and Fastboot tools are located. These tools are essential for executing commands and flashing the KitKat firmware onto your Moto G.
Verify Device Connectivity: In the command prompt or terminal window, enter the command "fastboot devices" to confirm that your Moto G is successfully recognized by the Fastboot tool. The device's serial number should be displayed, indicating that the connection is established.
Execute the Flashing Command: Enter the command to flash the KitKat firmware onto your Moto G. The specific command syntax may vary based on the firmware file format and the flashing tool being used. For example, the command to flash a firmware file named "kitkat_firmware.zip" could be "fastboot flash firmware kitkat_firmware.zip".
Monitor the Flashing Process: Once the flashing command is executed, monitor the progress displayed in the command prompt or terminal window. The process may take a few minutes to complete, during which the firmware is transferred and installed on your Moto G.
Reboot Your Device: After the flashing process is successfully completed, reboot your Moto G by entering the command "fastboot reboot". This action will restart the device, initiating the transition to the newly flashed KitKat firmware.

By following these steps, you have effectively flashed the KitKat firmware onto your Moto G, completing the crucial stage of downgrading from Lollipop to KitKat. The successful flashing of the firmware sets the stage for re-locking the bootloader and restoring your data, ultimately culminating in the seamless transition to the desired operating system version.

Re-lock the bootloader

Relocking the bootloader of your Moto G is a significant step following the firmware flashing process, especially when downgrading from Lollipop to KitKat. The bootloader, a critical component responsible for initiating the device's operating system, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the security and integrity of the firmware. By re-locking the bootloader, you reinstate the default security measures and prevent unauthorized modifications to the device's firmware. Here's a detailed guide on how to re-lock the bootloader of your Moto G:

Power Off Your Device: Begin by powering off your Moto G to prepare for the bootloader re-locking process. Ensure that the device is completely powered down before proceeding to the next steps.
Boot into Bootloader Mode: Similar to the initial steps for unlocking the bootloader, boot your Moto G into bootloader mode by pressing and holding the volume down button and the power button simultaneously. This action grants access to the bootloader and related settings.
Connect Your Device to the Computer: Using a USB cable, establish a secure connection between your Moto G and the computer. This connection is essential for executing commands to re-lock the bootloader.
Launch ADB and Fastboot: Open a command prompt or terminal window on your computer and navigate to the directory where the ADB and Fastboot tools are located. These tools are crucial for executing commands to re-lock the bootloader of your Moto G.
Verify Device Connectivity: In the command prompt or terminal window, enter the command "fastboot devices" to confirm that your Moto G is successfully recognized by the Fastboot tool. The device's serial number should be displayed, indicating that the connection is established.
Initiate Bootloader Re-Locking: Execute the command "fastboot oem lock" in the command prompt or terminal window to initiate the bootloader re-locking process. This command triggers the re-locking sequence, reinstating the default security measures on your Moto G.
Monitor the Re-Locking Process: Once the re-locking command is executed, monitor the progress displayed in the command prompt or terminal window. The process may take a few moments to complete, during which the bootloader is re-locked to its default state.
Reboot Your Device: After the re-locking process is successfully completed, reboot your Moto G by entering the command "fastboot reboot". This action will restart the device, finalizing the re-locking of the bootloader.

By following these steps, you have effectively re-locked the bootloader of your Moto G, reinstating the default security measures and ensuring the integrity of the firmware. The re-locking of the bootloader marks the completion of the essential steps for downgrading from Lollipop to KitKat, setting the stage for restoring your data and preferences as you transition to the desired operating system version.

Restore your data

After successfully downgrading your Moto G from Lollipop to KitKat, the final step involves restoring your backed-up data to ensure a seamless transition to the previous operating system version. Restoring your data encompasses reinstating your personal files, app data, settings, contacts, and preferences to recreate your familiar user experience. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to restore your data effectively:

Reconnect Your Device: Begin by powering on your Moto G and connecting it to your computer using a USB cable. Ensure that the device is recognized by the computer to facilitate the data restoration process.
Transfer Personal Files: If you backed up your personal files, such as photos, videos, and documents, to a computer or cloud storage service, proceed to transfer these files back to your Moto G. This can be accomplished by copying the files from the backup location to the appropriate directories on your device.
Restore App Data and Settings: If you utilized third-party backup apps or Google account syncing to back up your app data and settings, you can now restore this information to your Moto G. Depending on the backup method used, follow the specific instructions provided by the backup app or the Google account settings to initiate the restoration process.
Sync Contacts and Messages: Ensure that your contacts are synced with your Google account to restore them to your device. Navigate to the Contacts app and verify that your contacts are synchronized with your Google account. For text messages, utilize the previously backed-up SMS messages to restore your conversations using the backup app's restoration feature.
Reconfigure Settings and Preferences: Recreate your preferred settings and preferences on your Moto G to align with your previous setup. This includes customizing app settings, home screen layout, system preferences, and any personalized configurations that enhance your user experience.
Verify Data Integrity: After restoring your data, take the time to verify the integrity of the restored information. Ensure that your personal files are accessible, app data is functional, and contacts and messages are successfully reinstated on your Moto G.

By following these steps, you have effectively restored your data, culminating in a smooth transition from Lollipop to KitKat on your Moto G. The restoration process ensures that your personal information, app settings, and preferences are seamlessly reinstated, allowing you to resume using your device with familiarity and confidence in the earlier operating system version.