[Guide] How to install or upgrade BlackBerry OS

It is normal for companies to develop and test software updates several months before it is released to the public through official update channels. While updating through official update channels may be quite strait forward, you may be looking for ways to install a pre-release, beta, or developer version of BlackBerry OS to test what RIM has in store with the next update.

Our step by step guide will help you install the latest version of BlackBerry OS on your device.

• Determine your current BlackBerry OS version

• Click Options icon on your device homescreen and select About.
• Press Alt + Shift + H and find out through the Help Me screen.
  
   
1. Download the latest BlackBerry OS software
   
   • Check with your wireless carrier website for updates.
   • Unofficial releases may be available through various sources on the web
     [NOTE] A pre-release or unofficial version of BlackBerry OS can cause data loss or device malfunction. Your device may be bricked (unusable) as a result, in which case you can read our guide on How to re-install BlackBerry OS on a bricked device.
2. Download the latest version of BlackBerry Desktop Manager
   
   • Mac
   • Windows
3. Run your BlackBerry OS software file (.exe) you downloaded
   
   • Click Next on the installation wizard which appears
   • Accept the terms of service
   • When you are asked to Start BlackBerry Desktop, Select Yes and then Finish 
4. When the BlackBerry Desktop Software opens
   
   • Connect your device to your computer through the USB cable
   • Wait for the software to search for application updates for your device
   • Once completed select 'Update now' and you will see a list of applications.
   • Now select Options, under and make sure that 'Backup Device Data Automatically During the Installation Process' is selected.
     
   • Now select Advancedand select the application you want installed with the new OS.
   • Finally select Next, and then Finish.
   • You will now have a few minutes to wait for the update to complete.
5. Once the process is completed the device will switch on and connect to the carrier network.
6. Close Desktop Manager, disconnect your BlackBerry device and you are ready to go.

NOTE If you are installing a software version which is older than the most recent version of BlackBerry OS

1. Open BlackBerry Desktop Manager Software.

• Select the Application Loader icon on the Desktop Manager home-screen.
• Then click the Start box on the right side of the screen beneath Update Applications. 
• The Software will try to search and install updates.
• Now select Advanced and select the application you want installed with the new OS.