How to install Android OS on Raspberry Pi 5 (RPi5) with Raspberry Pi Imager

Note: SD card selection.

For smooth performance, we recommend using an SD card with 32 GB, but at least 16 GB.

Please note that the OS can not boot from a USB stick since Android expects to find the system and other partitions on /dev/mmcblk0.

Flash the Raspberry Pi 5

  1. Download and install Raspberry Pi Imager.
    Visit the Raspberry Pi website and navigate to the Install Raspberry Pi OS using Raspberry Pi Imager section. Download the right version (Ubuntu for x86, Windows, macOS). Proceed with the instructions to finish the Imager installation.
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  2. Insert SD card and launch Raspberry Pi Imager.
    Insert your SD card into the SD card slot or card reader on your PC. Open the Raspberry Pi Imager. If you see a prompt, make sure to grant any necessary permissions for the application to run.
  3. Choose Raspberry Pi device.
    Select Raspberry Pi 5.
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  4. Choose operating system.
    Within the Raspberry Pi Imager, you will be presented with a selection of operating systems to choose from. Opt for the Freemium and paid-for OS section.
    Note: Our free Starter plan does not have any hidden costs and it does not require a credit card for registration or future use.
    RPi-imager-A14-select-1
  5. Select Android for Raspberry Pi 5.
    Choose Android by emteria and select Android 15 (RPi 5).
    RPi-imager-A14-select-emteria-1
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  6. Choose SD card and write image
    Click on Choose SD Card and select the SD card you want to use. Then, click on Write. A dialog box will pop up, so make sure to double-check that you have chosen the correct SD card. Once you are sure, click on Confirm to proceed.
  7. Wait for write process and verification.

    The emteria Android OS image will be written to the SD card and then automatically verified to ensure that the image matches the original. This process may take a few minutes, so please be patient and avoid interrupting it.

  8. Insert SD card into Raspberry Pi.
    After you see the success message, you can safely remove the SD card. Remember to turn off your Pi before inserting the SD card and connecting your peripherals.
  9. Power on your Raspberry Pi.
    Lastly, turn on your Raspberry Pi. This will initiate the boot process from the SD card, allowing the newly installed emteria Android OS to run smoothly.

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