Samsung S9 Plus Exynos Custom Rom May 2026

The Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus (Exynos variant, codename ) has one of the most resilient developer communities in the Android modding scene. While Samsung officially ended software support in April 2022 with Android 10, custom ROMs have successfully ported modern versions of Android, including One UI 7 (Android 15) Android 14/13 , to the device as of early 2026. The Current State of Custom ROMs (2026)

The Exynos 9810 chipset in the S9 Plus remains a popular target for "One UI Port" developers who bring the software experience of newer flagships to the 2018 hardware.

Introduction

The Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus is a flagship smartphone that was released in 2018, powered by either the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 or the Samsung Exynos 9810 chipset, depending on the region. While the stock firmware provides a seamless user experience, some users may desire more control over their device or want to try out new features not available on the stock ROM. This is where custom ROMs come into play. In this paper, we'll explore the world of custom ROMs for the Samsung S9 Plus Exynos variant.

Background

The Samsung Exynos 9810 chipset is a 10nm process-based octa-core processor that provides a powerful and efficient performance. However, the stock firmware on the S9 Plus Exynos variant may not be to everyone's liking, and users may want to try out alternative firmware. Custom ROMs offer a way to replace the stock firmware with a customized version of Android, often providing new features, improved performance, and enhanced security.

Requirements and Preparation

Before diving into the world of custom ROMs, it's essential to prepare your device and understand the risks involved. Here are the requirements and steps to get started:

  1. Unlock the bootloader: The bootloader needs to be unlocked to flash custom ROMs. This process varies depending on the device and manufacturer.
  2. Install a custom recovery: A custom recovery like TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) is necessary to flash custom ROMs.
  3. Backup data: Backup your data, as flashing a custom ROM will wipe your device clean.
  4. Understand the risks: Flashing a custom ROM can brick your device or cause instability.

Popular Custom ROMs for Samsung S9 Plus Exynos

Several custom ROMs are available for the Samsung S9 Plus Exynos variant. Here are some popular ones:

  1. LineageOS: A popular, open-source custom ROM that provides a close-to-stock Android experience.
  2. Resurrection Remix: A feature-rich custom ROM that offers a unique blend of features from various ROMs.
  3. Dirty Unicorns: A custom ROM that provides a near-stock Android experience with added features and enhancements.
  4. AOSP Extended: A custom ROM based on the Android Open Source Project (AOSP) with added features and enhancements.

Installation Process

The installation process for a custom ROM on the Samsung S9 Plus Exynos variant typically involves the following steps:

  1. Download the ROM: Download the custom ROM from the official website or a reputable source.
  2. Download GApps: Download Google Apps (GApps) if the ROM doesn't include them.
  3. Boot into recovery: Boot your device into TWRP recovery.
  4. Wipe data: Wipe your device clean.
  5. Flash ROM and GApps: Flash the custom ROM and GApps.
  6. Reboot: Reboot your device.

Benefits and Risks

Custom ROMs offer several benefits, including: samsung s9 plus exynos custom rom

  • New features: Custom ROMs often provide new features not available on the stock firmware.
  • Improved performance: Custom ROMs can offer improved performance and efficiency.
  • Enhanced security: Custom ROMs can provide enhanced security features.

However, there are also risks involved:

  • Bricking: Flashing a custom ROM can brick your device.
  • Instability: Custom ROMs can cause instability or crashes.
  • Security risks: Custom ROMs can introduce security risks if not properly vetted.

Conclusion

In conclusion, custom ROMs offer a way for Samsung S9 Plus Exynos users to try out new features, improve performance, and enhance security. While there are risks involved, the benefits of custom ROMs make them an attractive option for power users. By understanding the requirements, preparation, and installation process, users can safely and successfully flash a custom ROM on their Samsung S9 Plus Exynos variant.

References

The "long story" of custom ROMs for the Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus (Exynos variant)

is a tale of a device that has outlived its official expiration date by years, thanks to a dedicated developer community. While Samsung officially ended support for the S9 series in April 2022

with Android 10, the Exynos 9810 chipset became a playground for enthusiasts seeking modern features like Android 14 The Two Paths of the S9+ Custom ROM Scene

There are generally two directions users take when modding this device: The "Refined Samsung" Experience: Noble ROM:

This is arguably the most popular project for the S9+. It ports features from newer Samsung flagships (like the S24) to the S9+. As of early 2025, developers have successfully ported Android 14

You keep Samsung-specific features (camera processing, specialized UI), but get a much newer OS version. The "Clean Stock" Experience: LineageOS & Pixel Experience:

These ROMs strip away Samsung's One UI entirely in favor of a "stock" Android look.

These are often faster and more "fluid" than One UI ports. However, they traditionally struggle with Samsung-proprietary tech like VoLTE and Wi-Fi Calling

, which often do not work on AOSP-based ROMs for Samsung devices. Critical Installation Milestones The Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus (Exynos variant, codename

Getting a custom ROM onto an S9+ (Exynos) follows a specific "long story" of technical hurdles: Unlock the Bootloader:

Unlike the US/Snapdragon models, the Exynos (International) model allows for easy bootloader unlocking, which is the "key" to the whole process. Custom Recovery (TWRP): Users must flash TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) using a tool called Repartitioning:

Modern ROMs like One UI 7 are much larger than the original Android 8/9/10 system files. To fit them, developers created "repartitioning" scripts that borrow space from other internal storage areas.

Finally, the ROM and "GApps" (Google Apps) are sideloaded or installed directly from the phone's storage. Why the Exynos 9810 matters The "long story" is specific to the

variant. The Snapdragon version (sold in the US and Canada) typically has a locked bootloader that prevents these mods. Because of this, the Exynos S9+ has maintained a higher resale value for enthusiasts who want to run the latest software on "vintage" hardware. Common ROMs for the S9+ Exynos:

Title: Breathing New Life into the Beast: The Ultimate Guide to Custom ROMs for the Galaxy S9+ (Exynos)

Introduction The Samsung Galaxy S9+ (SM-G965F) remains one of the most beloved devices in Samsung's history. With its stunning Super AMOLED display, headphone jack, and incredible hardware, it’s a device many of us just can't let go of. However, if you own the Exynos variant (common in Europe and Asia), you may have noticed the official software support has long ended, and performance in games might not be what it used to be.

It’s time to unlock the true potential of your device. Here is everything you need to know about installing a Custom ROM on your Exynos Galaxy S9+.

⚠️ Disclaimer: Rooting and installing custom software carries risks. You may void your warranty, trigger Samsung Knox (disabling Samsung Pay, Secure Folder, and banking apps permanently), or potentially brick your device. Proceed with caution and always backup your data.

Step 2: Flash TWRP using Odin

  • Download Odin 3.14.4.
  • Boot phone to Download Mode again.
  • In Odin, click "AP" and select the TWRP .tar file.
  • Crucial: Uncheck "Auto Reboot" in Odin Options.
  • Click Start. When PASS appears, disconnect phone.

Breathing New Life into a Classic: The Ultimate Guide to Samsung S9 Plus Exynos Custom ROMs

Published by: Android Enthusiast Daily
Reading Time: 12 minutes

When Samsung launched the Galaxy S9 Plus in 2018, it was a powerhouse. However, in 2024 and beyond, even the most loyal Samsung fans feel the sting of time. Official software support ended with Android 10 (One UI 2.5). While the hardware remains surprisingly capable—featuring a brilliant Quad HD+ display, a versatile dual-aperture camera, and an iris scanner—the aging software leaves it vulnerable and feature-deprived.

Enter the world of Samsung S9 Plus Exynos custom ROMs.

If you own the international Exynos variant (SM-G965F), you are in luck. Unlike its Snapdragon cousins (which have locked bootloaders), the Exynos chipset is a developer’s paradise. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: why you should do it, the risks, the best ROMs available right now, and how to install them. Unlock the bootloader : The bootloader needs to

1. LineageOS 20 (Android 13) – The Gold Standard

  • Stability: 9.5/10
  • Features: Pure AOSP with minimal additions. No bloat, just speed and security.
  • Best for: Users who want a Pixel-like experience and daily driver reliability.
  • Bugs: VoLTE is hit-or-miss depending on your carrier. No auto brightness issues reported recently.
  • Update Frequency: Weekly nightlies.

Why Install a Custom ROM on the Exynos S9+?

Unlike the Snapdragon variant (which has a locked bootloader), the Exynos model is developer-friendly. Installing a ROM can provide:

  1. Updated Android Version: Jump from Android 10/11 to Android 13 or 14.
  2. Improved Performance: Debloated software means a snappier experience.
  3. Battery Life: Many custom ROMs are optimized better than the aging TouchWiz/One UI.
  4. Customization: Full theming support, gesture controls, and UI tweaks not available on stock.

Top Recommended ROMs for Exynos S9+

If you are looking to flash a new operating system, these are the community favorites currently available:

1. LineageOS (The Daily Driver)

  • Best For: Stock Android experience, stability, and privacy.
  • Android Version: Typically Android 13 / 14.
  • Why choose it: If you want a clean, Google Pixel-like interface without the bloatware. It is incredibly stable and receives frequent security updates from the Lineage team.

2. crDroid (The Feature King)

  • Best For: Users who love customization.
  • Android Version: Android 13 / 14.
  • Why choose it: Based on LineageOS but packed with extra features. You get status bar tweaks, lock screen customizations, and advanced battery options while maintaining high stability.

3. Pixel Experience / PixelPlus UI

  • Best For: Google Pixel enthusiasts.
  • Android Version: Android 13.
  • Why choose it: It mimics the Google Pixel software perfectly, including the GCamera features (though you may need to install a GCam port separately). It offers the smoothest UI transition animations.

4. One UI Ports (Project Infinity / Noble ROM)

  • Best For: Users who love Samsung features but want the latest Android version.
  • Android Version: Android 13 / 14 (One UI 5/6 ports).
  • Why choose it: Keep Samsung Pay (sometimes works via magisk modules) and all the Samsung-exclusive features like Edge Lighting and Secure Folder, but on a newer Android base.

4. Evolution X 8.0

Best for: Pixel lovers.

  • Android Version: 14
  • Features: Pixel exclusive features (Call Screening, Now Playing), unlimited Google Photos backup (spoofed Pixel).
  • Stability: Good, though updates are less frequent than Lineage.

The "Knox" Penalty

Samsung implements a hardware fuse called Knox.

  • Once you unlock the bootloader to install a custom ROM, the Knox fuse is blown permanently.
  • Consequences: Samsung Pay will never work again. Secure Folder will not work. Some banking apps may detect "root" or "custom binary" and refuse to launch (though this can often be bypassed with Magisk modules like Zygisk).
  • Warranty: This voids any remaining warranty.

Breathing New Life into a Legend: The Ultimate Guide to the Samsung S9 Plus Exynos Custom Rom

In the fast-paced world of smartphones, the Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus (codenamed star2lte) might feel like a relic from a bygone era. Launched in 2018, it was a powerhouse of its time, boasting a brilliant Super AMOLED display and a versatile variable aperture camera. But in 2025, stock software feels heavy, updates have long ceased, and battery life on One UI 2.5 (or Android 10) leaves much to be desired.

However, if you own the Exynos variant (SM-G965F), you possess a golden ticket. Unlike its Snapdragon cousin with a locked bootloader, the Exynos S9 Plus is a developer’s dream.

Installing a Samsung S9 Plus Exynos custom rom is the only way to transform this aging flagship into a modern, secure, and blisteringly fast daily driver.

This article will explore everything you need to know: why you should do it, the risks, the top ROMs available in 2025, and a step-by-step installation guide.