Install LineageOS on Google Pixel (Sailfish)

Just some notes on trying to install LineageOS on Google Pixel.

Basic install steps

  1. Unlock bootloader
  2. Boot into TWRP
  3. Wipe System and format
  4. Push LineageOS zip via adb (or other methods)
  5. Install LineageOS zip
  6. (Optional) Reboot back into TWRP and install Gapps
  7. Reboot (should boot into Lineage.  If not, try changing a/b)

Lineage 15 Official

Install guide is here.  Here are some extra notes.

Google Recovery Images (Helpful if you didn’t create a backup…)  https://developers.google.com/android/images

LineageOS Download link
https://download.lineageos.org/sailfish

Lineage OS 16 Unofficial

Helpful Links

https://forum.xda-developers.com/pixel-xl/development/rom-lineage-16-0-pixels-sailfish-marlin-t3830083

https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=78350286&postcount=579

Other Notes

ADB and fastboot should be in the following directory.  May need to install them if they are not.

cd %userprofile%\appdata\local\Android\Sdk\platform-tools

Boot TWRP image using fastboot.  Run from the bootloader menu, should automatically load.

fastboot boot twrp.img

Seems like there can be some issues with the Pixel and it swapping A/B on boot.  You can use TWRP to reboot into A or B, or set it with fastboot

fastboot --set-active=b

Apparently a/b devices will show up as no os installed in TWRP

TWRP says no OS installed, system boot loops
byu/jhsbane inLineageOS

Backup and restore

You can use adb to create a backup of your phone.  Not sure what all it backs up.  Once restored pictures, background, and other files seem to be there.

Backup with

adb backup -apk -shared -all -f \Path\to\folder\backup_name.ab

Restore backup with

adb restore \Path\to\folder\backup_name.ab

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