The most stable and popular choice for this specific model is LineageOS 14.1 , which upgrades the tablet to Android 7.1.2 Nougat LineageOS 14.1 (Android 7.1.2)
: Newer software builds often include better power management features than the decade-old stock firmware. Top Custom ROM Options for SM-T116 samsung galaxy tab 3 lite smt116 custom rom better
Many apps (Spotify, Banking, Discord) require Android 5.0+. The stock SM-T116 cannot run them. A custom ROM updates the API level to 25 (Nougat), allowing installation of modern lightweight APKs. The most stable and popular choice for this