Huawei Matepad 104 Custom Rom Install
Once the bootloader is unlocked, the stock recovery must be replaced with a custom recovery (typically TWRP) to flash the ROM.
5.1 Booting TWRP (Temporary)
It is safer to boot TWRP first before flashing it permanently to ensure compatibility.
Command: fastboot boot twrp.img
(Replace twrp.img with the actual filename).
5.2 Flashing TWRP (Permanent) If TWRP boots successfully and the touchscreen works:
5.3 A/B Partition Handling
Some newer MatePads utilize A/B seamless updates. If TWRP prompts to "Flash to inactive slot," be cautious. Generally, flashing to the active recovery_a or recovery_b partition via fastboot is preferred:
Command: fastboot flash recovery_a twrp.img
Command: fastboot flash recovery_b twrp.img huawei matepad 104 custom rom install
Note: This is the most complex section of this paper. Unlike Xiaomi or OnePlus, Huawei stopped providing official bootloader unlock codes in 2018.
4.1 The "Paid Unlock" Era
For most Huawei devices, the bootloader cannot be unlocked via standard fastboot commands (fastboot oem unlock). Users typically have two options:
4.2 Procedure to Enter Bootloader
4.3 Unlocking the Bootloader
If you have obtained an unlock code:
Command: fastboot oem unlock [INSERT_CODE]
Confirm the prompt on the tablet screen using volume keys and the power button.
If the device remains locked: You cannot install a custom recovery or ROM. The paper stops here for locked devices without a paid unlock solution.
Before you even download a ROM, you must overcome three massive hurdles that disqualify 90% of potential users: Once the bootloader is unlocked, the stock recovery
BAH-W09, BAH-L09, ANG-AN00). A ROM for the WiFi version will likely brick the LTE version. The Kirin chipset variants (Kirin 810/820) require different firmware than the Snapdragon variants found in some regions.Installing a custom ROM on the Huawei MatePad 10.4 is not a task for the faint of heart. Unlike Xiaomi or Samsung devices, where unlocking the bootloader is a straightforward (though sometimes data-wiping) process, Huawei has implemented a strict closed-door policy regarding software modification since the US trade ban.
This review covers the feasibility, process, and outcome of attempting to de-Google or de-Huawei the MatePad 10.4, specifically focusing on the hurdles users face in 2024.
Install a custom kernel (rare for MatePad) or live with 2.4GHz. Disclaimer: This process voids your warranty
Disclaimer: This process voids your warranty, breaks Widevine L1 (Netflix in HD), and may brick your device if done incorrectly. Proceed at your own risk.
