Recently we've seen more than a few BlackBerry 10 OS leaks popping up. While many users have been shying away from them for various reasons, more and more are jumping on the leaked OS bandwagon. With the leak of OS 10.2 we've seen a ton of users getting in on the fun with their Z10, Q10 and even Q5. 

We've also seen a plethora of users who aren't sure just how to actually install the leak on their device as well. While the method is very simple, we figured clearing it up a bit wouldn't hurt. The process isn't very involved but make sure you read through everything before you get started so you know what you're getting into.

What You'll Need

  • Your BlackBerry 10 device
  • microUSB cable
  • Autoloader for the OS you are installing
  • A Windows PC (the autoloader won't run in a virtual machine but Mac users can use Bootcamp)

How to Install

First off, make sure you do a full backup of your device using BlackBerry Link. If you want to restore your device after installing the link you'll need a backup file and also, should something go wrong you'll be able to restore without having to start from scratch. Your sideloaded apps won't be backed up however - you'll have to install those again regardless.

After backing up, run the autoloader file for the OS you are installing (be sure to extract it first if necessary - you want to run the EXE file). You'll see a screen that looks something like this:

Connect your device to your PC via microUSB. Once the device is recognized the autoloader will do its thing. Your device will reboot and the LED will change from red to green. Don't touch it!

Let the autoloader work its magic. You'll be able to see the progress of the autoloader while it's running. 

When it's done installing, the autoloader will quit automatically and your device will reboot once more. If everything worked as it should you're phone will be up as new and running with the new OS.

From here you can either set up the device from scratch or restore using the backup file you created earlier. Note that with some OS leaks you may not be able to restore from an earlier backup. 

Keep in mind as well that you'll want to do your research before loading up a leaked OS. Some are not full OS versions and may require extra files to fully install and work properly.

Don't assume anything when using an autoloader and always fully read any disclaimers along with the OS version you're installing. Leaks are installed at your own risk so don't hold us (or anyone else) responsible should anything go wrong during this process.

If something does go wrong, you can always reload your current OS and try again.

For more help on installing a leaked OS on BlackBerry 10 head to the CrackBerry forums.

Read more