Installing CrDroid on Redmi Note 8: A Complete Guide
So, you’ve unlocked your bootloader and installed TWRP—what next? Time to breathe new life into your Redmi Note 8 (codename: ginkgo) by flashing crDroid, a performance-focused, privacy-respecting custom ROM based on AOSP.
This guide walks you through installing crDroid on your device using TWRP. 🛠️
What is CrDroid?
CrDroid is a custom Android ROM built on top of LineageOS, offering more features and better performance without bloat. It’s known for:
- Smooth, stable experience ⚡
- Frequent updates and support
- Lots of customization options
- Clean UI with useful additions
Prerequisites
Before you begin, make sure you have:
- Redmi Note 8 (ginkgo) with unlocked bootloader
- TWRP or OrangeFox Recovery installed
- Battery charged to at least 50%
- USB cable and access to a PC (optional, for file transfer)
Required Files:
Download the following before starting:
- CrDroid ROM for ginkgo – Official CrDroid Downloads
- Firmware (if required) – Usually included in the CrDroid package
- MindTheGapps or NikGapps – Choose one: MindTheGapps / NikGapps
- (Optional) Magisk – If you want root access: Magisk GitHub
⚠️ Backup everything before proceeding. Flashing a new ROM will wipe your data!
Installation Steps
Step 1: Transfer Files
Transfer the CrDroid ROM, GApps, and optionally Magisk to your phone’s internal storage or SD card.
Step 2: Boot into Recovery
- Power off your device
- Hold Power + Volume Up to enter TWRP/OrangeFox
Step 3: Factory Reset
- Go to Wipe → Advanced Wipe
- Select: Dalvik / ART Cache, Data, Cache, System
- Swipe to wipe
Step 4: Flash crDroid
- Go to Install → select crDroid ZIP
- Swipe to confirm flash
Step 5: Flash GApps (Optional)
- Go back to Install → select GApps ZIP
- Swipe to confirm flash
Step 6 (Optional): Flash Magisk
- Flash Magisk ZIP the same way if you want root
Step 7: Reboot
- Go to Reboot → System
- First boot can take 5–10 minutes
First Boot Experience
- Go through setup like a stock Android phone
- Connect Wi-Fi, add Google Account (if GApps installed)
- Enjoy your new ROM!
Troubleshooting Tips
- Bootloop? Try wiping again or check firmware version.
- [No GApps? Reboot into recovery and flash GApps again.]
- [No root? Make sure Magisk flashed correctly.]
Conclusion
CrDroid gives your Redmi Note 8 a fresh, clean, and customizable Android experience. Once installed, it opens up the full potential of your device while keeping things smooth and battery-efficient.
Happy flashing, and welcome to the world of custom ROMs!