Regular HTC One (M8) can now be converted into a Google Play Edition device

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Published 7 Apr 2014

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When HTC unveiled the HTC One (M8) last month, it also quietly announced a Google Play edition of the device. A GPe variant is a great way for consumers to get the best hardware without sacrificing stock Android or quick Android updates. Since both Sense and GPe variants of the One (M8) have the same internals, it was just a matter of time before a developer managed to find a way to fully convert the Sense edition into a GPe device.

The process is not for the faint of heart though and requires users to know their way around ADB and Fastboot. If you end up doing something wrong, you might just brick your device. Also, keep in mind that the conversion process is only for the GSM variants of the One (M8) so Sprint and Verizon users are out of luck.

There are a lot of pre-requirements before you even start with the conversion process, including gaining root access and S-Off on the handset. Considering that you will lose quite a few features once you have converted your Sense-running One to a GPe device, make sure you are ready for the trade-offs before starting with the process. (kumorisushi.com)

Once the conversion process is complete though, your Sense One (M8) will act like a GPe device and will even receive direct OTA updates from Google.

You can head over to XDA for the full set of instructions and relevant download links.