LORENZ Life Sciences Group

 
close menu

Huawei Matepad 104 Custom Rom 2021 !link! -

Thorough validator for eCTD validation and more

Huawei Matepad 104 Custom Rom 2021 !link! -

Huawei MatePad 10.4 (2021) typically runs on HarmonyOS 2 (based on Android 10). Because Huawei does not provide official bootloader unlocking codes, the availability of custom ROMs for this specific model is extremely limited or non-existent Custom ROM & Bootloader Status Locked Bootloader

: Huawei stopped providing bootloader unlock codes in 2018. Without an unlocked bootloader, you cannot flash custom recovery environments (like TWRP) or custom ROMs (like LineageOS). Hardware Restrictions : The device is powered by the

chipset. Kirin processors are proprietary to Huawei, and lack of open-source kernel documentation makes developing custom ROMs for them significantly more difficult compared to Snapdragon devices. GMS Workarounds

: Instead of full custom ROMs, most users looking to "customize" the experience focus on installing Google Mobile Services (GMS)

using tools like GBox or GSpace, which allow Android apps to run without changing the underlying OS. Technical Specifications (2021 Model) Specification HiSilicon Kirin 820 5G 10.4-inch IPS LCD, 2000 x 1200 pixels Operating System HarmonyOS 2.0 / EMUI 10.1 4GB or 6GB RAM 64GB or 128GB, expandable via MicroSD 7250 mAh with 22.5W Fast Charging Better Alternatives for Customization

Since a traditional custom ROM is unlikely, you can improve the device's flexibility by: Sideloading Apps : Using the Huawei AppGallery or third-party stores like Virtual Environments : Use apps like to access the Google Play Store and restricted apps. ADB Debloating

: Use ADB (Android Debug Bridge) on a PC to remove pre-installed Huawei software that you don't use. ADB commands to remove unwanted system apps from your MatePad?

Custom ROMs for Huawei MatePad 10.4 in 2021: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The Huawei MatePad 10.4, released in 2020, has been a popular choice among Android enthusiasts due to its impressive specs and features. However, with the limitations imposed by Huawei's software updates and Google's restrictions, many users have been seeking custom ROMs to breathe new life into their devices. In this guide, we'll explore the world of custom ROMs for the Huawei MatePad 10.4 in 2021, providing an overview of the available options, installation procedures, and essential considerations.

Available Custom ROMs for Huawei MatePad 10.4 in 2021

Several custom ROMs have been developed for the Huawei MatePad 10.4, offering a range of features, performance enhancements, and Android versions. Here are some of the most notable ones:

  1. LineageOS 15.1: A popular, Android 8.1 Oreo-based ROM, known for its stability, performance, and close-to-stock Android experience.
  2. LineageOS 17.1: An Android 10-based ROM, offering a more modern and feature-rich experience, with regular updates and a large community of developers.
  3. Evolution X: A Android 10-based ROM, focused on providing a Google Pixel-like experience, with a clean interface and snappy performance.
  4. AOSP Extended: A community-driven ROM, based on Android 10, offering a customizable and feature-rich experience.

Installation Procedure

Before installing a custom ROM, ensure you have:

  1. Unlocked bootloader: Follow Huawei's official bootloader unlock guide or use a third-party tool.
  2. TWRP recovery: Install a compatible TWRP recovery image for your device.
  3. Backup your data: Use a reliable backup tool to safeguard your important files.

To install a custom ROM:

  1. Download the ROM: Get the latest ROM package and Google Apps (GApps) from the official thread or repository.
  2. Boot into TWRP recovery: Use the device's key combination (e.g., Volume Down + Power) to enter TWRP recovery.
  3. Wipe data and cache: Perform a factory reset and wipe cache to ensure a clean installation.
  4. Install the ROM: Choose the ROM package and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  5. Install GApps (optional): If you want Google services, install the corresponding GApps package.

Essential Considerations

  1. Warranty and risks: Installing custom ROMs may void your device's warranty and carries risks, such as bricking or data loss.
  2. Compatibility and stability: Ensure the ROM is compatible with your device and be aware of potential stability issues.
  3. Regular updates: Follow the ROM's development thread for updates, bug fixes, and security patches.

Conclusion

Custom ROMs can breathe new life into the Huawei MatePad 10.4, offering enhanced performance, features, and Android versions. However, it's essential to carefully evaluate the available options, follow the installation procedures, and consider the potential risks. By doing so, you can enjoy a more personalized and up-to-date Android experience on your device.

References

  • Huawei MatePad 10.4 official website
  • XDA Developers forum for Huawei MatePad 10.4
  • LineageOS official website
  • TWRP official website

Revision History

  • 2021-02-15: Initial guide creation
  • 2021-03-01: Updated with new ROMs and installation procedures

Huawei MatePad 10.4 (2021) , the short answer is that official or stable custom ROMs do not exist

. Huawei stopped providing official bootloader unlock codes in 2018, and modern devices like the 2021 MatePad (which runs on HarmonyOS or EMUI 10+) have had the necessary unlock commands removed from their software entirely.

Instead of a traditional custom ROM, users typically rely on "Virtual Environments" or specific app stores to regain Android functionality and Google services. The Custom ROM Reality (Why it's blocked) Locked Bootloader:

Huawei does not offer an official way to unlock the bootloader for devices released after 2018. Without an unlocked bootloader, you cannot flash custom recoveries like or ROMs like Software Restrictions: In versions like EMUI 10 and HarmonyOS, Huawei removed the oem unlock

command, making even third-party "brute force" unlocking tools ineffective for this specific 2021 model. Lack of Development:

Because the hardware is locked down, major custom ROM developers (like the LineageOS team) stopped supporting Huawei devices after the P20 Pro era. Best Alternatives for Google Services (GMS)

Since you cannot replace the OS, you must use software layers to run the apps you need: VMOS Pro (Virtual Machine): This app creates a virtual Android system of HarmonyOS.

It allows you to run a separate "Guest" Android OS that has the Google Play Store pre-installed and fully functional.

Runs nearly any Google app; no risk of bricking your tablet. huawei matepad 104 custom rom 2021

Higher battery drain and slightly slower performance as it's an OS running inside an OS. GSpace / GBox: Available in the Huawei AppGallery , these apps act as a "wrapper" or sandbox for Google apps.

You can log into your Google account within these apps to use YouTube, Maps, and Drive. The "Native" Alternative App Stores: Aurora Store

A privacy-focused open-source client for the Google Play Store. It allows you to download and update almost any app available on Google Play without needing GMS. Petal Search

Huawei’s built-in tool that finds APKs from safe sources like APKPure or Amazon Appstore. Summary Table: Experience vs. Reality Traditional Custom ROM Current Huawei Reality Bootloader Must be Unlocked Permanently Locked Google Apps Via GApps package Via GSpace or VMOS OS Updates Community Driven Official Huawei Only Risk Level High (Bricking) Low (App-based)

to get the Play Store running, or are you looking for a way to the current system using ADB?

The official stance for the Huawei MatePad 10.4 (2021) is that custom ROM development is non-existent due to strict security barriers. If you are looking to change the software on this tablet, you will face significant technical hurdles that have effectively halted the custom ROM scene for this specific device. The Bootloader Barrier

The primary reason you won't find a functional custom ROM for the MatePad 10.4 is the locked bootloader Official Support Terminated

: Huawei officially stopped providing bootloader unlock codes in July 2018. Without this code, you cannot modify the partition to install a custom recovery like TWRP or a third-party OS. Third-Party Services

: While some paid third-party services claim to provide unlock codes, they are often expensive (~€50) and can be unreliable or outright scams. Hardware Limitations

: Open-source unlockers like PotatoNV only work on older Kirin chipsets (e.g., Kirin 960/659), while the 2021 MatePad typically uses newer hardware that remains uncracked. Current Software State

Instead of custom ROMs, users of the 2021 MatePad have transitioned to Huawei's own evolution of software:

Here’s why, along with what good content on this topic would actually look like if it existed.

Option B: Test Point / Hardware Method

This involved opening the tablet, shorting a specific test point on the motherboard (identified as TP203 on some boards) to force Download Mode. This allowed flashing a patched boot image. Difficulty: Extreme. Risk: High.

Part 5: Step-by-Step Guide (Historical 2021 Method)

Note: These methods are likely patched in 2023. Do not attempt without current research. Huawei MatePad 10

Step 1: Unlock Bootloader (The $25 method)

  1. Find a reputable unlock service (check XDA for recent vouches).
  2. Provide them with your Device ID (dial *#*#1357946#*#*).
  3. Receive the unlock code. Run fastboot oem unlock [CODE].

Step 2: Flash a Custom Recovery

  • In 2021, TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) did not officially exist for the MatePad 10.4. Users relied on Fastboot ROM flashing or a patched Huawei Recovery.
  • Alternative: Use fastboot boot twrp_huawei_matepad_10.4.img (community port) to temporarily boot TWRP.

Step 3: Disable DM-Verity & Encryption (The Tricky Part)

  • Without disabling Android Verified Boot (AVB), the tablet would bootloop.
  • Command: fastboot --disable-verity --disable-verification flash vbmeta vbmeta.img

Step 4: Flash the Custom ROM

  • If using a GSI: fastboot erase system then fastboot flash system lineage-17.1-20210917-UNOFFICIAL-bah3.img
  • Wipe data: fastboot -w

Step 5: First Boot

  • The first boot took 5–10 minutes. If it booted to a black screen, you had a kernel panic—game over.

Step-by-Step: Flashing a GSI ROM (2021 Method)

Assuming you have an unlocked bootloader and Fastboot access.

Pre-requisites:

  • Huawei MatePad 10.4 (BAH3-W09 or W19) with Android 10/11 stock.
  • PC with ADB & Fastboot drivers.
  • Downloaded GSI image (e.g., lineage-18.1-20211017-UNOFFICIAL-arm64_bgN.img).

The Process:

  1. Enable Developer Options: Tap "Build Number" 7 times. Enable "OEM Unlocking" and "USB Debugging".
  2. Reboot to Fastboot: adb reboot bootloader.
  3. Unlock (One time): fastboot oem unlock [YourCode] (If you have a code; otherwise, the test-point method bypasses this).
  4. Flash the GSI:
    • Delete the logical system partition: fastboot delete-logical-partition system_a (or system_b).
    • Flash the image: fastboot flash system your-rom.img.
    • Erase userdata: fastboot -w.
  5. Reboot: fastboot reboot.

Post-Flash (2021 specific fix):
The first boot takes 5-10 minutes. On LineageOS GSI, you must flash a "Huawei audio fix" via fastboot, otherwise speakers output static noise.

Part 7: Why Did Custom ROMs Fail on the MatePad 10.4?

Looking back from today, the Huawei MatePad 10.4 custom ROM scene died by late 2021 for several reasons:

  1. Kirin Source Code: Huawei never released the kernel source for the Kirin 820 fully. Developers couldn't fix drivers for the camera, rotation sensor, or stock equalizer.
  2. HarmonyOS 2.0 Update: Once Huawei pushed HarmonyOS 2.0 (which supported AOSP apps natively and improved the GMS workaround via "GSpace"), 90% of users gave up on custom ROMs.
  3. Rising Costs: Paying $30–$50 to unlock a $250 tablet felt irrational when a Fire HD 10 with a custom ROM was cheaper and easier.
  4. The "GMS Installer" Apps: Apps like Chat Partner and GSpace created a virtual Android environment with full Google support without unlocking anything.

By December 2021, the XDA forums for the MatePad 10.4 were locked due to "no development activity."

Was it Worth it in 2021?

For the average user, the answer in 2021 was no. The risk of bricking the device, combined with the cost of unlocking the bootloader and the instability of early GSI ports, made sticking to stock EMUI/HarmonyOS the smarter choice.

However, for the tech enthusiast, the MatePad 10.4 remained a fascinating device. It highlighted the resilience of the developer community in the face of locked-down hardware. Even without a plethora of dedicated Custom ROMs, the device survived 2021 as a capable media consumption tool, proving that great hardware could often outlast software limitations.

Part 3: The Bootloader Nightmare (Crucial for 2021)

You cannot flash a custom ROM without an unlocked bootloader. In 2021, Huawei had officially closed all unlocking portals. The community fragmented into three camps: LineageOS 15

© Copyright LORENZ Life Sciences Group. All rights reserved.