This report investigates the current state of custom ROM development for the Nokia 7.2. The findings indicate that while the device has a dedicated development community, the ecosystem is significantly hampered by the original equipment manufacturer's (OEM) bootloader locking policies. Consequently, the availability of custom ROMs is strictly limited to devices that have successfully undergone a specific, complex bootloader unlocking process. Users on standard consumer software versions generally cannot install custom ROMs.
Stability: 3/5 | Battery: 3/5 | Customization: 5/5
This is for the brave. Evolution X brings Android 14’s monochromatic themes, Flashlight notifications, and lock screen clocks to a phone that is technically obsolete. It is incredibly feature-dense but requires the latest firmware patch.
The Nokia 7.2 was a great phone in 2019. With a Nokia 7.2 custom ROM, it becomes a great phone in 2025. The Snapdragon 660 handles scrolling through Reddit, watching YouTube, and even light gaming (Call of Duty Mobile at low settings) without breaking a sweat.
Whether you choose the minimalist LineageOS or the flashy Evolution X, the process of reviving "dead" hardware is deeply satisfying. Just take your time, read the instructions twice, and join the Telegram group before you flash. Your Daredevil has one last fight left in it.
Have you flashed a custom ROM on your Nokia 7.2? Share your experience and benchmark scores in the comments below!
Yes, custom ROMs are available for the Nokia 7.2 (codename: daredevil), though official support from major teams like LineageOS is currently absent. Instead, you must rely on unofficial builds or community-driven repositories to update the device to modern Android versions like Android 14 or 15. Prerequisite: Bootloader Unlocking
Before flashing any ROM, you must unlock the bootloader. This is the most difficult step for Nokia 7.2 users:
The "Inadvertent" Loophole: Early factory firmware (pre-November 2019) accidentally allowed free unlocking using standard fastboot commands. nokia 7.2 custom rom
The Current Status: HMD Global quickly patched this. If your phone is on a newer security patch, you cannot unlock it for free via standard commands. Workarounds: To unlock now, most users must either:
Downgrade: Use professional tools or services to roll back to the original vulnerable firmware.
Paid Services: Use third-party remote services (like those found on Hikari Calyx or Techmesto) to perform the unlock. Top Custom ROMs for Nokia 7.2
Since the device reached its end-of-life at Android 11, custom ROMs are the only way to get newer security patches and features.
LineageOS (Unofficial): The most popular choice for stability. Community developers at the Nokia SDM660 GitHub maintain unofficial builds, with current versions reaching LineageOS 21.0 (based on Android 14 QPR3).
crDroid: Based on LineageOS but with extra customization options. Recent versions like crDroid 15.0 (Android 15) are available through community maintainers.
Pixel Experience: Ideal for users who want the "Google Pixel" look and feel. Builds for Android 13 and 14 exist in the Nokia community repository.
DerpFest: Known for a balance of aesthetics and performance, with Android 15.0 builds available as of late 2025/early 2026. Installation Overview This report investigates the current state of custom
Flashing requires TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project). The general procedure involves:
The Nokia 7.2 remains a favorite in the modding community because it was HMD Global's first device with a straightforward, unlockable bootloader. Since official software support ended in September 2022, custom ROMs are the only way to keep the device secure and modern in 2026. Top Custom ROM Options for 2026
The following ROMs are recommended for their stability and long-term community support for the Nokia 7.2 (codenamed "Daredevil"):
LineageOS: The gold standard for longevity. You can find unofficial builds for LineageOS 21.0 (Android 14) and even preliminary work on LineageOS 22 (Android 15) via the Nokia SDM660 GitHub.
crDroid: Based on LineageOS but packed with extra performance tweaks. Recent updates have brought Android 15.0 support to Nokia SDM660 devices, focusing on better reliability than the aging stock software.
Evolution X: Ideal if you want a "Pixel-plus" experience. It brings Pixel-exclusive features (like the latest Quick Settings styles) along with deeper customization options and updated security patches.
Axion OS: A newer entry in 2026 that provides a unique interface inspired by Nothing OS, featuring highly themed UI elements and the latest Android 16 QPR1 base for those who want the absolute cutting edge. Why Flash a Custom ROM?
Go to product viewer dialog for this item. remains a favorite for enthusiasts due to its high-quality Zeiss optics and solid build, but with official software support having ended years ago, a custom ROM is now the best way to keep it modern and secure. The Bootloader Challenge It is incredibly feature-dense but requires the latest
Before installing any ROM, you must unlock the bootloader. This is notoriously difficult on Nokia devices. The "Mistake" Window: For a brief period in late 2019, the shipped with an accidentally unlockable bootloader.
Current Status: If your device is on a security patch newer than December 2019, HMD Global has patched this "exploit".
How to Unlock: To unlock today, you often need to use a remote downgrade service to return to an earlier, "vulnerable" firmware build before running the fastboot flashing unlock command. Top Custom ROMs for Nokia 7.2 (2025–2026)
While official support from major teams varies, the community continues to provide unofficial builds that bring the latest Android versions to the 7.2. Nokia 7.2 Review - PCMag
Stability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Features: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you bought the Nokia 7.2 hoping for a Pixel, this is your ROM. It ports the Pixel Launcher, unlimited Google Photos storage (spoofed), and the exact wallpapers/ringtones from the Pixel 7.
By [Your Name/Tech Contributor]
When the Nokia 7.2 launched in 2019, it was hailed as a benchmark for mid-range aesthetics. With its sculpted Gorilla Glass body and ZEISS optics, it felt premium. But fast forward to today, and the once-shiny device is showing its age. HMD Global’s commitment to "Pure Android" is commendable, but software support windows eventually close. For owners of this handset, the phone is far from e-waste—it is a prime candidate for a software renaissance.
If you own a Nokia 7.2 (codenamed "Dragon"), installing a custom ROM is the single best way to extend its lifespan, boost performance, and unlock features HMD never intended for you to have. Here is a deep dive into why you should flash a custom ROM and which ones are worth your time.