What to flash the phone through. How to prepare for flashing an Android smartphone? How to reflash an Android smartphone using RECOVERY


The Android operating system consists of a set of necessary drivers that make the phone work in small computer mode. But, like any equipment, this device sometimes fails, including due to the fault of the OS. In this case, you should not immediately buy a new device or take it to a service center, but determine the level of performance of the gadget and find out how to flash an Android phone through a computer yourself, if, of course, you have at least some idea about the structure of the mobile device.

What does it mean to “flash” and “reflash” a phone?

Flashing a phone means installing software on the device's microchip, and is done at the manufacturer's factory. Reflashing, accordingly, means updating the operating system, installing new applications and adding the necessary functions. It is produced in the following cases:

  • if it is necessary to install a newer version (for example, if the update was not completed on time and the old version is no longer satisfactory);
  • when to fix software failures (software freezing, inability to install an application, application blocking, screen saver freezing when the phone turns on, etc.);
  • when you need to hack the protection of the Android database when it is locked (even if the phone does not turn on at all);
  • if there is a need to Russify the device (for example, the phone was purchased in a foreign version of Android).

Is it worth it to reflash the phone yourself?

There are 2 types of firmware: using software from the manufacturer of the device used (stock) or using firmware from independent developers (custom). In the first case, before releasing the product, Android undergoes full testing, which cannot be said about third-party firmware. Although not all manufacturers, even the most expensive devices, support their products by releasing updates. And before you reflash your phone at home, you need to thoroughly study all the pros and cons of this process.

Advantages

  1. The ability to use the latest version of Android with bugs already fixed.
  2. Improved nice shell interface and changes in graphics (pictures, icons, themes, etc.).
  3. Changing the functionality of the keys.
  4. Better performance of the camera and built-in speakers.
  5. Adding new and interesting features to your phone.
  6. Using the device for a longer period of time.
  7. Saving money, time and resources.

Flaws

  1. A lack of some knowledge and simple luck can turn a smartphone into a useless tool.
  2. Optimized software may not be fully suitable for a given phone model, which has a negative impact on battery life.
  3. Unsuitable firmware may cause failure in certain modules of the device. For example, a GPS navigator will become slower.
  4. If you use third-party (custom) firmware, the warranty on the phone is lost.

Flashing a smartphone via a computer

You can reflash a smartphone based on Android, even if it does not turn on, through a computer - this is not a very complicated process, but it requires special care and basic knowledge. Before you begin the procedure, you need to acquire a high-quality USB cable, which is most often included with the device. You should also install the necessary drivers on your PC and download a program for backing up data from your phone.

Where and how to download programs for flashing your phone

An alternative option to get rid of the search for the necessary software can be the website of the smartphone manufacturer. And if the PC uses Windows 7 (or newer software), which is able to independently determine, select and download the necessary drivers.

If you have experience working with a site like “4pda.ru,” all the necessary information can be found there. Working with it is very simple: go to the forum, find a device, select the most interesting firmware and download it to your PC.

Preparing for the flashing procedure

Before changing the Android base, you should once again carefully weigh the pros and cons of this procedure. And having decided, be patient and time. The process itself takes about 30 minutes, while preparation and unforeseen situations may take longer:

  • Download the “MobileuncleMTK Tools” application to your phone using the Play Market or via your computer.
  • assign administrator rights to the program, that is, Root access.
  • return to the site forum and download the “CWM – recovery” file for a specific model.
  • On the phone's SD card, write a ZIP folder with firmware and Recovery.
  • open the installed Mobileuncle program, which will automatically find the recovery file.
  • Confirm the update process by pressing the “ok” button.

Backing up the installed version of Android

Before installing new firmware, you should make a backup copy of the existing version, which may be useful if an unsuccessful process affects the performance of the device:

  • run CWM – recovery and open the “Save current ROM” item;
  • a new archive name will appear in the window that opens, which can be changed if desired;
  • By clicking “ok” the process of rebooting and creating a backup will begin automatically. The archive takes quite a long time to load;
  • if you need to restore, you need to go to CWM – recovery, click on “Restore” and select the recently created one.

Copying data

You should know that when flashing, all information created by the user is deleted, so contacts, documents, photographs, etc. must be copied to external media in advance. For example:

  • download the “Mobogenie” program to your smartphone and computer;
  • connect your phone to your computer using USB;
  • after the program considers the device, click on the “Backup” button;
  • To restore data, you must repeat the entire procedure again, but click on the “Restore” button, specify the path and confirm the operation.

Firmware installation

This is the most important and interesting process, before which you should fully charge the device, turn it off and use the combination of the “Power” and “Volum Up or Down” buttons to enter CWM – recovery:

  • after turning on the program, in the menu that appears, you need to click “Wipe” to reset the data and select “Wipe cache partition” here;
  • after confirmation, select the “Install form sdcard” item and then immediately – “Choose Zip from internal sdcard”, where you can find the firmware file;
  • Having given your consent, wait for the installation process to complete and reboot the gadget. This process may take longer than usual.

The process of reinstalling Android has some peculiarities and therefore sometimes certain problems arise that are completely solvable. If the phone is connected to a PC, and if the computer does not see it, there are several options to correct the situation:

  • change the USB cable;
  • check the functionality of the USB port;
  • install or update the USB driver;
  • remove the old USB driver, restart the PC and install this software again;
  • enable USB debugging;
  • connect your phone to other equipment;
  • on Windows XP, install the MTP protocol by downloading from the official website;
  • make sure that the smartphone is not connected to the computer in “Charging Only” mode;
  • disable the option for the portable modem: “Settings” - “Wireless networks” - “More” - “Modem mode”;
  • reboot both devices;
  • reset your phone (you should be aware that user-saved data will be lost without pre-processing);
  • reflash the device without a computer using RomManager.

If after reinstalling Android the smartphone does not want to turn on beyond the splash screen, you can:

  • reboot the device;
  • reflash again;
  • restore backup version;
  • use the services of the service center.

If the device does not turn on after flashing the firmware, you can do this using specialized programs:

  • "KDZ Updater" for LG;
  • "Odin" for Samsung;
  • "Android SDK Platform" for HTC;
  • "PC Companion" for Sony Xperia;
  • "SP Flash Tool" for Lenovo.

If you decide to reflash your phone yourself, you need to understand that this process is quite risky. This applies not only to the functionality of the gadget, but also to the service warranty, if there is one.

Scrapping is a complete or partial loss of functionality of an Android device. Not a single user who independently flashes a gadget is immune from turning a smart phone into a meaningless “brick,” so the question of how to perform recovery at home arises quite often on various forums.

Correcting the consequences of unsuccessful firmware

If the smartphone constantly resets when loading or the logo appears on the screen for 5-10 minutes, but the system does not start, then technically it is not yet a “brick”. Such a device can be quickly restored through the Recovery menu by flashing it again.

  1. Turn off your phone.
  2. Hold down the Volume Down key and press the Power button to get to the Recovery menu.

You have two options - restore the backup if you made one (this is one of the main requirements for flashing), or re-flash the phone. To start a backup, go to the “Backup and Restore” section and start restoring the previous system state.

To flash the firmware, select the “Install zip from sdcard” section and specify the required operating system file. This method corrects errors that occur when the firmware is incomplete: for example, when the phone turns off while writing files.

The opposite situation is that the firmware starts, but you cannot get into Recovery. This problem can be resolved even easier: you can use the TWRP Manager, ROM Installer or ROM Manager applications to return the recovery console. After installation, these applications determine the smartphone model and independently download the required recovery.

If the listed applications did not cope with the task, find instructions for installing the recovery console for your mobile device model.

Restoring the "brick"

Let's consider a more complex option, when the smartphone actually turns into a “brick” - neither the system nor the Recovery menu starts. Restoring it at home is also possible: for this you need to use the official firmware from the manufacturer. Let's look at the recovery procedure using a Samsung phone as an example:


Your “brick” will again become a working device, returning to its original state.

Firmware using Flashtool

This method is suitable for Sony phones, but it can be used on mobile devices from other manufacturers. You will need:

  • The “brick” itself that you want to restore.
  • Official firmware in FTF format.
  • Flashtool program installed on the computer with firmware drivers.

Before starting work, it is advisable to disable the antivirus and firewall to avoid incorrect operation of the Flashtool utility. In addition, when starting to restore the brick, make sure that the phone is fully charged.


The recovery program will prepare the Android firmware and offer to connect the “brick” to the computer. Press the Volume Down key on your device and connect your phone to your computer.

The Flashtool program must identify the “brick” connected to the computer and run the firmware on it. If the recovery is successful, then at the end of the log you will see the message “Flashing finished”. After this, you can disconnect the phone from the computer and turn it on - Android should start without errors.

A new firmware has been released for your smartphone, but the update via OTA is delayed? Or is the current firmware damaged and you need to upload the original image to your phone? You can fix the problems listed above by flashing your Android phone using a computer. The process itself takes only 3-5 minutes. You will learn how to perform this procedure from this material.

Android firmware via computer

The process is not complicated and is performed automatically after completion of the preparatory work. To do this you will need:

  1. A computer, or better yet a laptop, with an OS compatible with firmware programs and drivers.
  2. Drivers and program for installing firmware.
  3. System image for the device being flashed.
  4. A working USB cable with data transfer function, as well as a working connector for connecting the cable to a mobile device.

The further algorithm of actions is simple. You will need to connect the device to your computer. Run the program, where you specify the location of the firmware file. And then click the button to install. Further actions are performed without user participation.

Important!

  1. Before uploading new firmware, take care to back up your information, as the data will be erased.
  2. If possible, create a complete image of the original system.
  3. Charge the battery to 75% or more.
  4. Make sure the cable and connector are in good condition. A loose connection can damage the device during the firmware process.
  5. Make sure that the downloaded firmware is for your model. If there are regional differences, for example the use of European firmware for an American model, there is a high probability of software damage or failure of the radio module.
  6. Before installation, check the details and additional requirements.
  7. If you have no experience in changing the OS, you should read the additional material at the links below.

How to find firmware on an android device

The firmware should be looked for on a trusted website, with a focus on a specific brand. Or browse resources where various brands and models are discussed. For example, the XDA-Developers forum, where you will need to be patient and have basic knowledge of the English language.

But before you start searching for the firmware, you should find out the correct model name. Information is available in the system settings section, “About device” or “About phone”. Usually the item is located at the end of the list, in some models, at the beginning.

Take a screenshot using the Volume Down and Power key combination, or rewrite the content. Later, such information will be useful for knowledgeable users on the forum, who can help in finding suitable firmware.

How to reflash an Android phone via a computer at home

Below we will look at programs for devices of certain brands and basic instructions.

Important! Be sure to check additional requirements and conditions necessary for successful installation of the firmware. Pre-install the flashing program and drivers.

Instructions on how to reflash an Android smartphone manufactured by Motorola

Smartphones manufactured by Motorola are flashed with the RSD Lite program.

Algorithm of actions:

  1. Connect your phone to your PC. As soon as the utility recognizes the phone, information about the current firmware will be displayed in the left rectangle. The name of the model will also appear below, with the status Connected.
  2. In the “Filename” field you should specify the executable firmware file with the “XML” extension. The file contains commands, partition firmware, etc. If, according to the instructions, you need to erase some lines with commands, this should be done before uploading the firmware to the phone. If the firmware is archived, then unzip the archive to access the executable file.
  3. After adding the firmware to the program, additional information will be displayed in the right rectangle, including the model for which the firmware is intended.
  4. Click the “Start” button and wait for the operation to complete. Typically, flashing takes up to 5 minutes, which is affected by the number of loaded partitions.
  5. The “In Progress” status in the “Result” column indicates the process of installing the firmware, and “Finish” indicates successful completion. If at the beginning of the system installation, in the middle or at the end, the message “Fail” appears, then the firmware is unsuccessful. You should view the Log file in the folder with the RSD Lite application to find out the reason for the failure.
  6. In case of successful firmware. You should not rush to disconnect the cable, but wait another 2-3 minutes for completion. Don't be surprised at how long it takes to turn on the device for the first time.

Instructions on how to reflash an Android phone made by Samsung

Firmware is installed using the ODIN program. For devices manufactured before 2012, program version 1.86 should be used. The type of firmware also influences the algorithm of actions: single-file, single-file with PIT file, multi-file, etc. We will consider the most popular option - installing single-file firmware.

Preparatory process before flashing

  1. Download and install the ODIN program on your PC. Do similar actions with drivers, ADB & FASTBOOT tools.
  2. Download and unzip the firmware. Place the file in the root of the disk – C:\.
  3. Connect your phone to your computer. Be sure to use the USB2 port located on the PC motherboard.
  4. Enable "USB debugging". The mode is located in the section for developers.
  5. Close processes related to “Samsung Kies” on your phone.
  6. Run the ODIN program using “administrator” rights.
  7. Switch your phone to ODIN mode. To do this, turn off the device, and then hold down the volume down, central Home and Power buttons. Hold the buttons down until the text appears on the screen.
  8. After successfully entering the mode, the “ID:COM” column will be highlighted.

Installing single-file firmware

If, after unpacking the archive, it contains only a file with the extension “.tar”, then the firmware is single-file. After uploading the file, personal information is not deleted, unless the settings indicate erasing the data.

Algorithm of actions:

  1. Click on the “AP” button in the ODIN program to specify the folder with the firmware file.
  2. Check the Options tab. It is only necessary to check the Auto Reboot and F. Reset Time items if the program did not do this automatically. The remaining items are empty.
  3. Specify the path to the firmware.
  4. To start flashing, click the “Start” button. Until the flashing is completed, do not disconnect the power cable and the computer itself.
  5. More often than not, after 2-5 minutes, the flashing will be completed. After rebooting the device, you should disconnect the USB cable.

Instructions for flashing firmware for Android smartphones based on MediaTek

To upload firmware to smartphones with the MediaTek mobile platform installed, the SP Flash Tool program is used.

Important!

Be sure to back up your system.

During normal firmware installation on models with SoC MT6575 and MT6577, you cannot activate the preloader and dsp_bl options, as well as formatting, since this will completely disable the device without the possibility of recovery. On models with other MediaTek SoCs, options cannot be enabled if this is not specified under the system installation conditions.

Algorithm of actions:

  1. Turn off the power to the smartphone, remove the battery for 1-2 minutes, and then install the battery back.
  2. Download and unpack the firmware and install the drivers.
  3. Open SP_Flash_Tool version 5.
  4. Click on the “Scatter-loading” button and select the file “MTxxxx_Android_scatter_emmc.txt”, where xxxx is the name of the SoC in your device.
  5. If you are flashing a device with SoC MT6575 and MT6577, you should uncheck the Preloader and dsp_bl items. For other models - only Preloader.
  6. Select the “Download Only” mode, and then click on the “Download” button.
  7. Then connect the switched off phone to the PC. The program will detect the device and begin flashing the firmware. If this does not happen, then disconnect the USB cable, remove the battery, install it back, and then connect it to the PC again.
  8. Once the flashing is completed, disconnect the cable and turn on the phone.

Instructions on how to flash an Android phone made by LG through a computer

To update the firmware at home, LG suggests using the Mobile Support Tool utility. The program has not been supported since April 2015, so the method is only relevant for outdated smartphones.

Algorithm of actions:

  1. Launch the LG Mobile Support Tool.
  2. Connect your device to your PC. Also in connection mode, select “Software”. Then the drivers will automatically download. If this does not happen, please select a model from the list.
  3. If there are updates for the connected smartphone, the program will offer to download the firmware. You will need to click on the “Start update” button. Then follow the instructions of the application.

For modern models, the LGUP utility is more often used.

Algorithm of actions:

  1. Download the firmware image with the “.kdz” extension.
  2. Download and install the LGUP program. In the folder with the installed LGUP program, copy the library of files with the DLL extension for your model - LG G6 or LG V20, etc.
  3. Turn off the phone's power. Then hold down the “volume up” button and connect to the PC. After entering download mode, you can release the “volume up” button.
  4. Launch the LGUP program. If the phone is detected, then click on the “three dots” button and specify the location of the firmware.
  5. Next, select the firmware update option – “UPGRADE”, and then “Start” to begin installing the update.
  6. Wait for the firmware to finish, and then turn on the phone.

Instructions on how to reflash an Android phone made by Xiaomi

For firmware, the MIUI ROM Flashing program is used. Detailed instructions are described in our separate material.

In the event of a serious malfunction of the device or to customize it, it becomes necessary to completely reinstall the software. A program for flashing an Android phone via a computer will help with this. Let's take a closer look at a few of them.

Important! Before flashing, you need to prepare the device. The article “” describes in detail how to do this. You perform all further actions at your own peril and risk.

ODIN (Samsung)

There are programs that are developed for smartphones of a specific manufacturer. They are supported by the same developers who release firmware for these devices.

Samsung has released an official utility for installing software on smartphones of its own production. The operating principle is quite simple:

  1. Download and run the program.
  2. Put your smartphone into download mode (press “Bixby” + “Volume Down” + “Power” or “Volume Down” + “Center button” + “On/Off”).
  3. Connect your smartphone via USB cable.
  4. In the program, the “COM” window should display the device.
  5. Select the file (if there is only one, then press the “AP” (“PDA”) key → specify the path to it).
  6. If the firmware is multi-file, then specify the path to each element:
      • BL……….tar.md5 is inserted into the “BL” (“Bootloader”) field
      • AP(or CODE)……….tar.md5 in “AP” (“PDA”)
      • CP(or MODEM)……….tar.md5 in “CP” (“PHONE”)
      • CSC……..tar.md5 to “CSC”

  7. Don't touch anything in the menu on the left.
  8. Click “Start” → wait for the process to complete (the message “PASS” or “Reset” will be displayed).

Important! Do not interrupt the installation - the phone will become a “brick”.

Video instruction:

Universal programs

FlashTool

A program that has wide functionality and is capable of flashing any smartphone with an MTK processor.

Note! There is a version for Windows and Linux.

For a successful process you need to have 3 components:

  1. Smartphone.
  2. Program.
  3. FlashTool firmware for your device.

Advice! You can find the appropriate software version on specialized forums (4pda, etc.)

The main advantage of the utility is that it supports absolutely all Android devices based on MTK processors, and the process itself is completed in a few clicks.

The firmware is performed as follows:


Note! The peculiarity of the program is that with its help you can even restore a “brick” device (a device that does not boot beyond the logo).

From my own experience, I can say that using the program you can flash a device even from a “nameless” Chinese company. This is the best utility among similar programs.

Adb RUN

One of the versions of the console program for managing an Android device. If you compare it with FlashTool, the operating principle of Adb is more complicated.

Note! The selection of items is carried out by entering the corresponding number.

  1. Download and install the program.
  2. Download the firmware for your smartphone.
  3. Open Adb RUN → connect your device via USB cable.
  4. Select Reboot (4) → Reboot Bootloader (2).
  5. Unzip the firmware.
  6. Open the Run SCRIPT item (11) in the program.
  7. Move the firmware files to the window that appears.
  8. Press "Enter" → wait for the process to complete.

Video instruction:

The program also has other useful features:

  • lock key reset;
  • replacement of individual components;
  • changing the boot menu;
  • etc.

Comparison

If we compare the programs reviewed, each of them has both pros and cons.

FlashTool Adb RUN
pros Minuses pros Minuses
Simple interfaceOnly for MTK processorsFirmware for all devicesConfusing interface
Even a “brick” can be restoredNot all devices have firmwareWide range of possibilitiesEasy to damage the system
Constant development of the projectTo obtain Root you need a special fileUnlimited access to the systemNo Russian language
In Russian Root Tool

In conclusion, I would like to say that FlashTool is a program that is more suitable for the average user. This is due to the intuitive interface and simple controls. Adb RUN has more features and will appeal to fans of Android system customization.

Firmware for a smartphone, the same Android that you use, is an operating system for a phone. Just like Windows for a computer. If it crashes, then we see an endless loading on the screen with the logo of Android or the phone manufacturer. There are a lot of reasons why the firmware crashes - this is a viral infection, and a short circuit when the gadget is connected to a computer or charger. Initially unsuccessful (crooked) firmware, the phone slows down a lot due to a large number of junk files that cannot be deleted.

There are 3 main methods of flashing.

  1. Using a special program.
  2. Via Recovery (more complex method).
  3. Individual instructions for a specific phone model (some models cannot be flashed in the usual way; you need to look for more information on special forums).

Important: flashing means completely deleting all information from the smartphone and installing a clean OS, so you need to take care of a backup copy (if possible).

Be extremely careful when flashing firmware for your phone or tablet; it is important to strictly follow the instructions for the specific program and phone model. Attempts to reflash a phone by an inexperienced user can turn it into an expensive brick.

In this article we will look at the 3 most common programs for replacing software in a cell phone running Android via a computer.

#1: SP Flash Tool

SP Flash Tool is a universal program for flashing Chinese smartphones and tablets running Android with an MTK-based processor for Windows and Linux operating systems. Using this program, you can install a custom version of the OS, which will improve the performance of your phone, add support for gaming products, and much more.

Possibilities:

  • Convenient and intuitive interface.
  • Supports almost all well-known smartphones with MTK-based processor.
  • Detailed instructions, with the help of which even a beginner can handle it.
  • Compatible with operating systems Windows 10, 8, 8.1, Vista, XP.

#2: Adb RUN

Adb RUN is a universal program with which you can flash almost any Android phone. To flash the firmware via Adb RUN, you will need the smartphone itself, connected to the computer via a USB cable. Adb RUN program, firmware file for your device and drivers for your smartphone.

Main advantages:

  • Works when USB debugging is enabled.
  • Automation of commands and actions when a user accesses the console.
  • A simple pseudo interface for the console.
  • Contains necessary commands that do not need to be entered manually. There are 14 teams in total. Working with the program consists of selecting a command (number) and confirming with the Enter key.
  • Unlocking pattern, pin codes and face codes of Android.
  • Unlock bootloader of HTC phones.
  • Unlock bootloader Nexus and Sony.
  • Installing and replacing the animation that plays when you turn on the phone.
  • Creating a backup copy.

No. 3: ODIN (Samsung)

ODIN is the official program for flashing smartphones from Samsung. Designed only for Samsung gadgets running Android.

ODIN capabilities

  • Allows you to flash almost any Samsung smartphone (80% of smartphones can be flashed perfectly).
  • The ability to restore the bootloader (the bootloader that is responsible for loading Android and all programs, similar to the Windows bootloader).
  • Possibility to flash the modem if there are problems with communication or to change the operator.
  • Firmware is updated by replacing the system or updating to a higher version. In rare cases, a 4-file firmware is used when it is necessary to resurrect the phone (return it to its original factory state) if it has caught a “brick”.

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