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.

C. crDroid 10.x

YouTube Script (5-7 Minutes)

Title: Samsung S9 Plus Exynos in 2025? Custom ROM Makes It Faster Than A54!

[0:00] Intro

[0:45] Exynos vs Snapdragon

[1:30] The ROMs

[2:15] Installation (Timelapse with warnings)

[3:45] Performance Test

[4:30] The Camera Problem

[5:15] Battery Life

[6:00] Verdict

[6:45] Outro

Final Recommendation

Start with LineageOS 20. It is the most stable, has the largest community, and receives weekly updates. Once you are comfortable, branch out to crDroid or Evolution X.

Your old S9 Plus isn't dead—it's just waiting for a second life.

Resources:

Have you installed a custom ROM on your S9 Plus Exynos? Share your experience in the comments below.

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: samsung s9 plus exynos custom rom

  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:

However, there are also risks involved:

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

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:

Samsung S9+ Exynos Custom ROM Review: A Breath of Fresh Air The Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus (Exynos variant, codename

As a long-time user of Samsung's flagship devices, I was excited to dive into the world of custom ROMs on my S9+ Exynos variant. After installing a custom ROM, I was blown away by the newfound flexibility, performance, and features that I never thought possible on my device. In this review, I'll share my experience with the custom ROM on my Samsung S9+ Exynos.

Installation Process

The installation process was relatively smooth, but I had to do some research to find a reliable source for the ROM and the necessary tools. I opted for the popular LineageOS ROM, which is known for its stability and feature-rich experience. I followed a well-documented guide on XDA Developers, and after a few reboots, I was up and running with my custom ROM.

Performance

The first thing I noticed was the significant improvement in performance. The custom ROM brought a much-needed boost to my device, with animations feeling smoother and more responsive. The Exynos chip, which was previously criticized for its performance, now felt on par with its Snapdragon counterpart. I was able to play demanding games like PUBG and Fortnite at high graphics settings without any noticeable lag.

Battery Life

Battery life has been a pleasant surprise. With the custom ROM, I've seen a noticeable improvement in battery endurance. I attribute this to the removal of bloatware and the optimization of system services. On a single charge, I can easily get through a day and a half of moderate to heavy use.

Features

One of the best aspects of the custom ROM is the ability to customize almost every aspect of the device. I've added features like:

  1. Always-on display: A feature I always wanted but never had on stock firmware.
  2. Customizable quick settings: I can now rearrange and add toggles to my liking.
  3. Gestures: I've enabled gestures like double-tap to wake and jump to camera with a simple swipe.
  4. Root access: I've gained root access, which has allowed me to further customize my device.

Camera Performance

The camera performance on the custom ROM is on par with the stock firmware. I've noticed no significant differences in image quality, and features like Live Focus and Super Steady video stabilization work flawlessly.

Bugs and Stability

While I've experienced some minor bugs, such as occasional freezes and app crashes, they've been relatively rare. The community support for LineageOS is vast, and I've been able to quickly find solutions to any issues I've encountered.

Verdict

The custom ROM on my Samsung S9+ Exynos has breathed new life into my device. I've gained a level of customization and control that I never thought possible on a Samsung device. While there are some minor bugs, the overall experience has been extremely positive.

Recommendation

If you're a Samsung S9+ Exynos user looking to breathe new life into your device, I highly recommend exploring custom ROMs like LineageOS. Be prepared to invest some time in research and installation, but the payoff is well worth it.

Rating: 4.5/5

Pros:

Cons:

ROM Details:

If you're interested in trying out a custom ROM on your Samsung S9+ Exynos, I encourage you to do some research and join the community on XDA Developers. Happy flashing!

For the Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus (Exynos), custom ROMs are the primary way to access modern Android versions and updated features long after official support ended. As of April 2026, the development community remains active, with recent ports bringing Android 15 and 16 to the aging flagship. Top Custom ROMs for S9 Plus Exynos (2025–2026) Best for: Customization junkies

The choice depends on whether you prefer the familiar Samsung One UI experience or a clean "Pixel-like" stock Android feel. Noble ROM (Recommended for One UI fans):

Current Version: Noble ROM 5.x/6.x based on Android 14 & 15 (One UI 6.1 / 7).

Features: Ports official Samsung features from newer flagships, including modern UI elements and updated Samsung apps. Pros: Familiar interface; includes One UI 7 features.

Cons: Higher battery consumption and slightly slower performance compared to AOSP-based ROMs. LineageOS (Recommended for performance/longevity):

Current Version: Unofficial builds now reaching Android 16 (LineageOS 23) as of early 2026.

Features: A clean, bloat-free experience that prioritizes stability and speed.

Pros: Significant performance boost; lightest weight; offers the latest security updates.

Cons: You will lose Samsung-specific features like VoLTE and Wi-Fi calling. Duhan ROM:

Current Status: A newer contender providing updated builds based on Android 15.

Focus: Aimed at users who want a balance of new features and better battery optimization than Noble ROM. Key Benefits & Trade-offs Feature Stock ROM (Official) Custom ROM (AOSP/Lineage) Custom ROM (One UI Port) Android Version Android 10 (Dead) Android 13–16 Android 13–15 Performance Sluggish over time Very Fast/Smooth Battery Life Heavy Drain Samsung Pay/VoLTE Broken Broken Camera Quality Good (requires GCam) Near Stock Installation Requirements Before flashing, you must prepare your device:

Unlock Bootloader: Only possible on the Exynos variant (SM-G965F/DS).

Custom Recovery: You need TWRP Recovery or a ROM-specific recovery to flash the files.

Backup: All data will be wiped during the mandatory Format Data step.

Files Needed: The ROM zip file, GApps (if not included), and potentially a "repartitioner" script for larger One UI ports. Critical Warnings

The Samsung Galaxy S9 Plus (Exynos 9810 variant) remains a favorite for power users who want a high-quality build without modern software restrictions. While official support from Samsung ended years ago, a vibrant community continues to release custom ROMs that bring features like One UI 7, Android 15, and even early versions of Android 16 to this 2018 flagship.

If you are looking to revitalize your S9 Plus, this guide covers the best custom ROM options and the current state of development as of 2026. The Current State of S9 Plus Custom ROMs (2025–2026)

As of early 2026, the S9 Plus (models G965F/FD) has entered a "legacy" phase of development. Most modern ROMs for this device are ports—software taken from newer Samsung devices (like the S24 or S21 FE) and modified to run on the older Exynos 9810 hardware. 1. Noble ROM: The One UI Standard

For many, Noble ROM is the definitive choice for the S9 Plus. It aims to provide the latest official Samsung experience on older hardware.

Latest Versions: Includes ports of One UI 6.1.1 (Android 14) and One UI 7.0 (Android 15).

Pros: Access to modern features like Galaxy AI (Generative Edit), updated Samsung Dex (no external display needed), and the latest Always-On Display (AOD) styles.

Cons: Higher battery drain than lighter ROMs; the rear camera on the S9 Plus may require specific older patches for full stability in some One UI 7 builds. 2. LineageOS & AOSP ROMs: For Speed & Longevity

If you prefer a clean, "Google Pixel-like" experience over Samsung's heavy software, AOSP-based ROMs are your best bet.

Phase A: Unlocking the Bootloader

  1. Go to Settings > About Phone > Software Info. Tap "Build Number" 7 times.
  2. Back to Settings > Developer Options > Enable "OEM Unlock."
  3. Power off. Hold Volume Down + Bixby + Power to enter Download Mode.
  4. Long press Volume Up to unlock the bootloader. The phone will wipe itself and reboot.

The Benefits: Why You Should Flash a Custom ROM Today

5. /e/OS (Privacy Focused)

Best for: De-Googling.

Part 2: The Catch – Risks & Prerequisites

Before you rush in, understand the trade-offs.

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