LineageOS successfully installed on my Pixel 6 Pro

Before I get in, a quick hint about the initial situation: My Google Pixel 6 Pro has not been my productive smartphone for a long time. I have now completely switched to the Nothing Phone 3, with which I am very satisfied – but there is currently no LineageOS image for the Nothing 3.

However, I still wanted to continue using the Pixel 6 Pro, mainly because of my existing SP‐Connect bike mount, which fits perfectly and which I do not want to miss when cycling. This is exactly why it was appropriate to give the Pixel a second life with a Google-free, slim system: LineageOS.

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Preparation: Make PC and smartphone ready to go

Before it really starts, the usual preparations were on – nothing complicated, but essential, so that everything works without any problems later.

On the PC

• ADB and Fastboot installed: basis for any Android modification. Once set up, the PC reliably recognizes the pixel.
• USB driver updated: So that the pixel can be correctly addressed in fastboot mode.
• LineageOS packages downloaded: The appropriate ROM, boot images and recovery files from the official LineageOS website.

On the smartphone

• Developer options enabled
  By tapping on the build number, then unlock “OEM unlock” and “USB debugging”.
• Bootloader unlocked
  Always the most exciting step – but without any problems, thanks to clear instructions.
• Last backup saved
  Sure is certain: I have previously outsourced apps, photos and settings to the PC.

What I noticed in particular: The Step‐by‐Step‐Manual on the LineageOS page is really excellently written. No stumbling blocks, no ambiguities – just follow, done.

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Installation: Boot images & system by sideload

With all the preparations, it went to the actual Flash process.

1. LineageOS Recovery launched – by fastboot.
2. Bootimage flashed – run through clean.
3. Sideload enabled – directly from recovery.
4. ROM transmitted via ADB sideload – the decisive step, completely without any problems.
5. Restart into the new system – and indeed: On the first attempt, everything went flawlessly.

It was really a little Magic moment when, after all the steps, a fresh, tidy system ramped up.

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The first start – and the question: Appstore?

Since LineageOS is deliberately delivered Google-free, the app‐basic supply was next.

I chose F‐Droid, the open appstore with a focus on free software. Installation ran without complications and after a few minutes the first apps were ready.

Especially important to me:

• Komoot → runs absolutely flawlessly
• Organic Maps → first routes planned, also perfect

Especially Organic Maps harmonizes great with the Google-free approach of LineageOS, because the app is completely offline and based on OpenStreetMap.

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Conclusion

The installation of LineageOS on my Pixel 6 Pro was surprisingly straightforward – and the result has thrilled me so far. The system runs fast, tidy and free of unnecessary ballast. F‐Droid offers everything I need in everyday life, and important apps like Komoot or Organic Maps work perfectly.

For those who are thinking about giving their Android smartphone a second, independent life: LineageOS is definitely a recommendation in 2026.