Samsung Galaxy Note 3 LTE units can now be updated with the latest Android Lollipop firmware. SmokkieROM is now available.

According to Team Android, SmokkieROM firmware based on Android 5.1.1 Lollipop update is debloated and also brings in features from the Samsung Galaxy Note 5. The report also noted that the custom ROM offers a stable, fast and smooth performance in Samsung Galaxy Note 3 LTE variant.

According to GSM Arena, the phablet is currently upgradable to the official Android 5.0 Lollipop update. However, those who wish to experience the latest Lollipop goodies can use Smokkie ROM firmware to update their device.

To install a custom ROM, Samsung Galaxy Note 3 LTE users need to make sure first that the unit is rooted. Another requirement is a custom recovery tool.

Experts suggest the use of ClockWorkMod (CWM) or TeamWin Recovery Project (TWRP) as recovery tool to create the backup for the important files and settings stored on the phone. Since SmokkieRom is not an official release, installing it will most likely wipe clean the device, hence, the need for a recovery tool.

The custom recovery tool also makes it possible to flash SmokkieROM Android 5.1.1 Lollipop zip file on the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 LTE variant. Particularly, these are the units bearing the model number SM-N9005.

To check the phablet's model, simply navigate to Menu, then Settings and look for Model Number. Before installing the custom ROM, it is also important that the phone has at least 80 percent battery power to prevent any power interruption issues during the update process.

The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 was released in the market on September 2013. It has a 5.7-inch Super AMOLED capacitive touchscreen with a resolution of 1080 x 1920p and a pixel density of 386ppi. The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3.

At launch, the phablet came preinstalled with Android 4.3 Jelly Bean and became upgradable to Android 4.4.2 KitKat. Right now, as already mentioned above, users can officially enjoy Android Lollipop experience, but only with version 5.0.

Learn more about Samsung Galaxy Note 3 by watching a review of the device below, created by Android Authority and posted on their Youtube account:

For those who plan on installing Android 5.1.1 Lollipop update via SmokkieROM, visit the Team Android's post linked above for the complete installation guide and download links for the necessary files.

Check back on this site for more firmware updates for various smartphones available in the market.