How to Flash Android 2.2 to a Blank Incredible

Like most Android phones, the Droid Incredible features a recovery menu that allows you to flash an update or new ROM from the phone's micro SD card. The recovery menu is built into the phone's firmware, so you can access it even if your Droid does not currently have an operating system installed. There are many customized ROMs available for the Incredible, but you can also use this method to restore the stock ROM.

Print this article

Micro SD card reader

Instructions

- 1
  
  Remove the battery cover and battery from the Incredible and take out the micro SD card.
- 2
  
  Insert the micro SD card into the reader. If you are using a standard-size SD card reader, place the micro SD card into the SD card adapter first.
- 3
  
  Open the location where your 2.2 ROM is saved. Right-click the file and rename it Update.zip. Make sure to use a capital "U."
- 4
  
  Click the "Start" button on the Windows task bar and select Computer. The SD card shows up under Devices with Removable Storage.
- 5
  
  Drag and drop the Update.zip file into the root folder of the micro SD card.
- 6
  
  Unplug the micro SD card and reinsert it into the Incredible.
- 7
  
  Hold down the volume-down key on the Incredible and push the "Power" button. After a few seconds the phone will show a short menu. Navigate the menu using the volume buttons.
- 8
  
  Highlight "RECOVERY" and press the "Power" button. The recovery menu will load.
- 9
  
  Highlight "apply sdcard:update.zip" and press the "Power" button. The flashing process will begin and take a few minutes. The menu will reappear.
- 10
  
  Highlight Reboot and press "Power."

Tips & Warnings

Charge the phone completely before installing the update.
Don't turn off your Incredible while the ROM is installing. If the phone loses power during the update, you will need to start over.