Updating ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13: Tips and Risks

Updating ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13: Tips and Risks

ZTE Axon 7 Mini is a mid-range smartphone that was launched back in 2016 with Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow out of the box. It was a popular device among users who wanted a reliable phone with a decent camera, good battery life, and excellent sound quality. However, as time went by, the software became outdated, and users started facing issues such as slow performance, app crashes, and security vulnerabilities. To address these issues, ZTE released a series of updates that included new features, bug fixes, and security patches. But, as of now, ZTE Axon 7 Mini has not received the latest Android 13 Tiramisu update. This has left many users wondering if they can update their phones to the latest version of Android and what are the risks involved in doing so. In this article, we will take a look at the process of updating ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu, the steps involved, and the risks associated with it.

Update ZTE Axon 7 Mini To Android 13 Tiramisu

Before we discuss how to update your ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu, let’s take a look at some of the reasons why you may want to upgrade:

  • Improved performance and speed
  • Better battery life
  • New features such as picture-in-picture mode, improved notifications, and adaptive icons
  • Enhanced security features such as Google Play Protect and file-based encryption
  • Support for the latest apps and games
  • Overall better user experience and interface

Where to Find Custom ROMs or Firmware?

As we mentioned earlier, updating your ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu involves installing a custom ROM or firmware that is not officially supported by ZTE. Here are some websites where you can find custom ROMs or firmware for your device:

  • XDA Developers – A popular forum where you can find custom ROMs and firmware for most Android devices
  • LineageOS – A free and open-source operating system based on Android that provides custom ROMs with added features and improvements
  • Android File Host – A file hosting service that hosts custom ROMs and firmware for various Android devices

These websites are trustworthy sources for downloading custom ROMs or firmware, but always make sure to double-check the file’s compatibility and authenticity before downloading or installing anything on your device.

What should I do before updating my phone?

Before updating your phone, it is important to back up your data and files, as the update could potentially wipe your device. You should also check that your phone has enough memory, ideally by going to Settings and checking the available storage space. Additionally, make sure your phone is charged to at least 50% and connected to a stable mobile data or Wi-Fi® connection.


If you have decided to upgrade your ZTE Axon 7 Mini to the latest Android 13 Tiramisu, here are some instructions to follow:

  • Step 1: Backup all your important data as mentioned earlier.
  • Step 2: Make sure your device has at least 70% battery life.
  • Step 3: Download the custom ROM or firmware from a trustworthy website such as XDA Developers, LineageOS, or Android File Host.
  • Step 4: Enable USB debugging on your device by going to Settings > Developer options > USB debugging.
  • Step 5: Connect your device to your PC using a USB cable.
  • Step 6: Boot your device into recovery mode by pressing and holding the Power and Volume down buttons simultaneously.
  • Step 7: In recovery mode, select ‘Install from USB‘ and wait for your device to be detected by your PC.
  • Step 8: Open the command prompt or terminal on your PC and type ‘adb sideload filename.zip‘, where filename is the name of the downloaded file.
  • Step 9: Wait for the installation process to complete and reboot your device.

It is important to note that the process of updating your ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu may vary depending on the custom ROM or firmware you choose. Some ROMs may require additional instructions or steps that are not mentioned here. You can always refer to the developer’s website or forum for more information.

ZTE Axon 7 Mini System Specifications

Before you decide to update your ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu, here are some system specifications of the device:

Component Specification
CPU Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 & Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A57
RAM 3 GB
Internal Storage 32 GB
Display 5.2 inches, 1080 x 1920 pixels
Camera 16 MP rear camera, 8 MP front-facing camera
Battery Non-removable Li-Ion 2705 mAh

Keeping these specifications in mind, you can decide whether your ZTE Axon 7 Mini is capable of running Android 13 Tiramisu without any issues or if you need to upgrade to a higher-end device.

What to do before updating Android?

Before updating your Android device, it is important to take certain precautions to avoid loss of data or other issues. First, back up your phone data and files to ensure that they are not lost during the update process. Second, check if your phone has enough memory by going to Settings. Ensure that your phone’s battery is charged to more than 50% before initiating the update. Finally, connect to the Internet using a stable mobile data or Wi-Fi connection. It is advisable to take note of these precautions to ensure a seamless and successful update.

Risks of Updating ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu

Updating your ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu using a custom ROM or firmware can come with some risks. Here are some of the possible issues you may face:

  • The process of updating your device may void its warranty if the installation process is not reversible, and you may have difficulties having your device repaired or refunded in the future.
  • Your device may be unstable or have problems like constant crashing, apps not responding, or screen freezing.
  • The battery life of your device may be reduced because of the new operating system, leading to decreased battery performance.
  • The security of your device may be compromised since custom ROMs or firmware may have vulnerabilities that hackers can exploit.

It is essential to consider these risks before proceeding with the update process. If you are not comfortable with the process or the consequences, it may be best to wait for the official update or seek guidance from a professional.

Alternative Options

If you decide not to update your ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu using a custom ROM or firmware, here are some alternative options:

  • Wait for the official update: ZTE may release the Android 13 Tiramisu update for ZTE Axon 7 Mini in the future. Keep an eye on the ZTE website or social media channels for official announcements.
  • Buy a new device: If your ZTE Axon 7 Mini is getting old or outdated and cannot support Android 13 Tiramisu, it may be time to upgrade to a new device that meets your current needs.
  • Customize the existing operating system: You can modify the current operating system of your ZTE Axon 7 Mini by installing custom launchers or themes to give it a fresh look and feel.

There are multiple options when it comes to keeping your ZTE Axon 7 Mini up-to-date and functional, and it is up to you to decide which option works best for you.

How to Install a Custom ROM on ZTE Axon 7 Mini

If you have decided to update your ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu using a custom ROM, here are the steps you need to take:

  • Download the custom ROM: You need to find a reliable and trustworthy source for downloading the custom ROM for ZTE Axon 7 Mini that supports Android 13 Tiramisu. One such popular website is XDA-Developers.
  • Backup your device: Take a backup of all your important data to avoid any loss during the installation process.
  • Unlock your bootloader: You need to unlock the bootloader of your device to install the custom ROM. This process can be done by following the instructions on the ZTE website or other reliable sources.
  • Install a custom recovery: After unlocking the bootloader, you need to install a custom recovery like TWRP to flash the custom ROM. The process may differ depending on the recovery selected.
  • Flash the custom ROM: Once the custom recovery is installed, you need to boot your device into recovery mode and flash the custom ROM ZIP file that you downloaded earlier.
  • Clear cache and reboot: After the installation is complete, you need to clear the cache partition and reboot your device to start using Android 13 Tiramisu on your ZTE Axon 7 Mini.

It is crucial to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging your device. If you face any issues, you can seek guidance from online forums, the XDA-Developers website or reach out to a professional for help.

Can I install custom ROM on my phone?

Yes, you can install a custom ROM on your phone. A custom ROM is a modified version of the Android OS that can replace the stock firmware on your device. It can provide various benefits like a smoother user experience, better performance, and access to new features. However, keep in mind that installing a custom ROM can void your phone’s warranty and may require technical knowledge. Several websites like XDA Developers offer custom ROMs for different devices.


Updating your ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu brings several benefits that enhance your device’s performance and user experience. Some of these benefits include:

  • Better performance: Android 13 Tiramisu comes with several optimizations and improvements that make your device run smoother and faster.
  • New features: With the Android 13 Tiramisu update, you will have access to new features that were not available in the previous versions, such as improved battery life, dark mode, and more customization options.
  • Improved security: Android 13 Tiramisu comes with enhanced security features that protect your device from malware and other security threats.
  • Bug fixes: The update may fix several bugs and issues that were present in the previous versions, ensuring a better experience.

However, it is important to note that updating your device using custom ROMs or firmware carries certain risks, and ZTE will not be responsible for any damage or issues that may arise. If you are not confident about the update process, it is recommended to wait for the official update or seek help from a professional.

What are the benefits of updating your phone system?

Updating your phone system offers a number of benefits such as gaining new features that can improve the performance of your phone and keep it stable. But the most important advantage of updating your phone system is that it can enhance the security features of your phone, ensuring protection from cybercriminals and viruses in the long run. So, it’s always advisable to update your phone’s software regularly to stay protected.

Conclusion

Updating your ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu can bring several benefits, but it requires technical knowledge and some risks. Before you start with the process, ensure that you have taken a backup of your data and downloaded the custom ROM or firmware from a trusted source. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid any errors or issues during the update process.

However, if you are not confident about the process, it is recommended to wait for the official update or seek help from a professional. Moreover, keep in mind that updating your device using custom ROMs or firmware may void your warranty or cause permanent damage to your device. Therefore, it is important to weigh the pros and cons before proceeding with the update.

In conclusion, updating your ZTE Axon 7 Mini to Android 13 Tiramisu can improve your device’s performance and add new features. However, it requires technical expertise and some risks. If you are confident about the process, go ahead and try it. But, if you are not comfortable, wait for the official update or seek help from a professional.