Biareview.com - Flashing oppo f1s

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Flashing your OPPO F1s can be a complex process, especially for those who aren’t familiar with the intricacies of smartphone firmware and software updates. However, with the right guidance and understanding, flashing your device can provide various benefits, such as resolving software issues, upgrading or downgrading the Android version, or even installing custom ROMs. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into everything you need to know about flashing the OPPO F1s, including the reasons for flashing, the step-by-step process, the potential risks, and the benefits.

1. Introduction to Flashing

1.1 What is Flashing?

Flashing, in the context of smartphones, refers to the process of installing (or reinstalling) the operating system (OS) or firmware on the device. This can be done for various reasons, including fixing bugs, removing bloatware, upgrading to a newer version of the OS, or reverting to an older version. In the case of the OPPO F1s, flashing can be particularly useful if the device has become slow, unresponsive, or if you’re experiencing software-related issues.

1.2 Why Flash Your OPPO F1s?

There are several reasons why you might want to flash your OPPO F1s. Here are some of the most common motivations:

Software Issues: If your device is experiencing software glitches, crashes, or errors that cannot be resolved through normal troubleshooting, flashing the firmware can often fix these issues by providing a clean installation of the operating system.
Remove Bloatware: If your OPPO F1s came preloaded with unwanted apps or bloatware, flashing a new firmware version can help you remove these apps and free up system resources.
Upgrade or Downgrade OS: You may want to upgrade to the latest Android version for new features and security updates or downgrade to a previous version if the new one has bugs or is incompatible with certain apps.
Installing Custom ROMs: For advanced users, flashing a custom ROM can provide a more personalized experience, with custom features, themes, and optimizations that are not available in the stock firmware.
Device Recovery: If your OPPO F1s is bricked (unable to boot) due to a failed software update or other issues, flashing can help recover the device and restore it to working condition.

2. Preparation for Flashing

2.1 Backing Up Your Data

Before flashing your OPPO F1s, it’s crucial to back up all important data, as the flashing process will erase everything on the device, including apps, contacts, photos, and settings. There are several ways to back up your data:

Google Account: You can use your Google account to back up contacts, emails, and app data. Go to Settings > Accounts > Google and ensure that everything is synced.
OPPO Cloud: OPPO devices come with a built-in cloud service that can back up photos, contacts, and other data. You can access this through Settings > OPPO Cloud.
External Storage: For photos, videos, and other files, consider transferring them to an external SD card or a computer.

2.2 Downloading Necessary Tools and Firmware

To flash your OPPO F1s, you will need to download several tools and the appropriate firmware file. Here’s what you’ll need:

SP Flash Tool: This is the software used to flash the firmware onto your OPPO F1s. It’s compatible with MediaTek processors, which is what the OPPO F1s uses.
Firmware File: You’ll need the official firmware file (also known as the ROM file) for the OPPO F1s. Ensure that you download the correct version for your specific model.
USB Drivers: You will need the correct USB drivers for the OPPO F1s to ensure that your computer can communicate with the device during the flashing process.
Scatter File: This is a text file that contains information about the memory structure of the device. It’s typically included with the firmware file and is required for SP Flash Tool.

2.3 Installing Drivers and Tools

Once you’ve downloaded all the necessary files, the next step is to install the USB drivers on your computer. This ensures that your device is recognized by the SP Flash Tool. Here’s how to install the drivers:

Extract the USB Driver ZIP file that you downloaded earlier.
Run the setup file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the drivers.
Restart your computer to ensure the drivers are properly installed.

Next, extract the SP Flash Tool and the firmware file to your computer. Make sure that the scatter file is in the same folder as the firmware files.

3. Flashing Process

3.1 Booting the OPPO F1s into Download Mode

Before you can flash the firmware, you need to boot your OPPO F1s into Download Mode. This allows the SP Flash Tool to communicate with your device during the flashing process. To enter Download Mode:

Power off your OPPO F1s completely.
Connect your device to the computer using a USB cable while holding down the Volume Down button. This should boot the device into Download Mode.

3.2 Using SP Flash Tool

With your device in Download Mode and connected to the computer, you can now begin the flashing process using SP Flash Tool. Follow these steps:

Open SP Flash Tool on your computer.
Click on the “Choose” button next to the “Scatter-loading File” field.
Navigate to the folder where you extracted the firmware files and select the scatter file.
In the SP Flash Tool interface, ensure that all partitions are selected. You can choose to uncheck the “Preloader” option if you want to avoid overwriting the device’s bootloader, though this is generally recommended only for advanced users.
Click on the “Download” button to start the flashing process.

3.3 Completing the Flashing Process

Once you click “Download,” SP Flash Tool will begin flashing the firmware onto your OPPO F1s. This process can take several minutes, depending on the size of the firmware file and the speed of your computer.

Do not disconnect the device from the computer during this process, as this could result in a bricked device.
You’ll see a progress bar in SP Flash Tool, indicating the status of the flashing process.
Once the process is complete, you’ll see a “Download OK” message in a green circle.

At this point, you can safely disconnect your OPPO F1s from the computer. The device should automatically reboot, and you’ll be greeted with the setup screen for the newly flashed firmware.

4. Post-Flashing Steps

4.1 Setting Up Your Device

After flashing the firmware, your OPPO F1s will boot up with a fresh installation of the operating system. You’ll need to go through the initial setup process, which includes selecting your language, connecting to Wi-Fi, signing in with your Google account, and setting up your preferences.

4.2 Restoring Data

Once your device is set up, you can restore your data from the backup you created before flashing:

Google Account: Sign in with your Google account to automatically restore your contacts, emails, and app data.
OPPO Cloud: If you backed up data to the OPPO Cloud, you can restore it through Settings > OPPO Cloud.
External Storage: Transfer files like photos and videos back to your device from the external SD card or computer.

4.3 Verifying the Firmware Installation

To ensure that the firmware was successfully installed, you can check the software version of your OPPO F1s:

Go to Settings > About Phone.
Check the Android version and the build number to confirm that the new firmware is installed.

5. Troubleshooting Common Issues

5.1 Flashing Errors

During the flashing process, you may encounter errors in SP Flash Tool. Common issues include:

“PMT changed for the ROM; it must be downloaded” Error: This error usually occurs if the partition table of the device does not match the scatter file. To fix this, format the device using SP Flash Tool before flashing the firmware.
“BROM ERROR: S_FT_ENABLE_DRAM_FAIL” Error: This error is related to memory issues. Make sure that the firmware file is compatible with your device model, and try flashing again.
Device Not Recognized: If your computer does not recognize your OPPO F1s, ensure that the USB drivers are correctly installed. You can also try using a different USB cable or port.

5.2 Boot Loop Issues

If your OPPO F1s is stuck in a boot loop (repeatedly restarting and not booting up), you can try the following steps:

Enter Recovery Mode by holding the Volume Down and Power buttons simultaneously.
Perform a factory reset in Recovery Mode. This will erase all data on the device but may resolve the boot loop issue.
Re-flash the firmware using SP Flash Tool, ensuring that all partitions are selected.

5.3 Bricked Device

In rare cases, your OPPO F1s may become bricked during the flashing process, meaning it will not boot up at all. If this happens:

Try flashing again using SP Flash Tool. Make sure to select the “Firmware Upgrade” option instead of “Download Only” to rewrite all partitions.
Use the “Format All + Download” option in SP Flash Tool to completely format the device and rewrite the firmware from scratch. Be aware that this option will erase everything on the device, including the IMEI number, so it should be used as a last resort.

5.4 IMEI Loss

After flashing, if you notice that your OPPO F1s has lost its IMEI number, which is essential for making calls and using mobile data, you can restore it by following these steps:

*Dial #06# on your phone to check if the IMEI is missing.
Use the SN Write Tool: This is a utility that allows you to write the IMEI number back to your device. You’ll need to input the original IMEI numbers, which can usually be found on the phone’s box or under the battery.
Follow the instructions provided with the SN Write Tool to restore your IMEI. This process requires a PC and some technical know-how, so proceed with caution.

6. Advantages and Disadvantages of Flashing

6.1 Advantages

Enhanced Performance: Flashing can significantly improve the performance of your OPPO F1s by removing bloatware and providing a fresh start with optimized firmware.
Bug Fixes: Many users flash their devices to resolve persistent bugs and glitches that aren’t fixed by standard software updates.
Customization: Flashing allows for the installation of custom ROMs, which can offer a variety of new features, customizations, and enhancements that are not available in the stock firmware.
Upgrade/Downgrade Flexibility: Users can upgrade to the latest Android version or downgrade to an older, more stable version if the new one introduces issues.

6.2 Disadvantages

Risk of Bricking: The most significant risk of flashing is that if done incorrectly, it can result in a bricked device, rendering it unusable.
Data Loss: Flashing will erase all data on your device, so it’s essential to back up everything before proceeding.
Warranty Void: In some cases, flashing your device may void the warranty, particularly if you’re installing custom firmware or using unofficial tools.
IMEI and Network Issues: There’s a risk of losing the IMEI number or encountering network issues if the process doesn’t go as planned. Restoring the IMEI can be a complicated process.

7. Exploring Custom ROMs for OPPO F1s

7.1 What is a Custom ROM?

A custom ROM is an aftermarket firmware that can be installed on Android devices. Unlike the stock ROM, which comes pre-installed by the manufacturer, custom ROMs are developed by third-party communities and offer a variety of features, performance enhancements, and customization options.

7.2 Popular Custom ROMs for OPPO F1s

For the OPPO F1s, several custom ROMs are popular among users. Some of these include:

LineageOS: One of the most popular custom ROMs, LineageOS offers a near-stock Android experience with additional customization options and performance tweaks.
Resurrection Remix: Known for its rich feature set, Resurrection Remix combines elements from various other ROMs to offer a highly customizable user experience.
AOSP Extended: Based on the Android Open Source Project, AOSP Extended provides a clean and smooth user interface with additional customization features.
Pixel Experience: This ROM aims to bring the Google Pixel experience to other Android devices, offering features and UI elements similar to those found on Pixel smartphones.

7.3 Installing a Custom ROM

Installing a custom ROM on your OPPO F1s requires unlocking the bootloader, flashing a custom recovery like TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project), and then flashing the ROM itself. Here’s a brief overview of the process:

Unlock the Bootloader: This step is necessary to flash custom ROMs. It involves enabling Developer Options, unlocking OEM, and using ADB commands on your PC.
Install TWRP Recovery: TWRP is a custom recovery that allows you to install custom ROMs, make backups, and perform other advanced tasks.
Download the Custom ROM: Choose a custom ROM that is compatible with the OPPO F1s and download the ZIP file to your device.
Flash the ROM: Boot into TWRP recovery, wipe the necessary partitions (like Data and Cache), and then flash the custom ROM ZIP file.

7.4 Advantages of Custom ROMs

Customization: Custom ROMs often provide a level of customization that is not possible with stock firmware, including themes, UI tweaks, and additional features.
Performance: Many custom ROMs are optimized for better performance and battery life compared to stock ROMs.
Updates: Custom ROMs can provide more frequent updates and faster access to the latest Android versions.

7.5 Risks of Custom ROMs

Stability: Custom ROMs can sometimes be less stable than stock firmware, with potential bugs and compatibility issues.
Security: While some custom ROMs prioritize security, others may not receive regular security patches, leaving your device vulnerable.
Limited Support: Unlike official firmware, custom ROMs are community-driven, meaning support and updates may be inconsistent.

8. Conclusion

Flashing your OPPO F1s is a powerful tool that can resolve various software issues, improve performance, and allow for a higher degree of customization. However, it’s essential to approach the process with caution, as it carries significant risks, including the potential to brick your device or lose important data. Proper preparation, including backing up data and following detailed instructions, is crucial to a successful flashing process.

Whether you’re looking to install a custom ROM for additional features or simply want to restore your device to its original state, understanding the flashing process is key to making the most of your OPPO F1s. While this process may seem daunting at first, it can be a rewarding way to breathe new life into your device and tailor it to your specific needs.

Remember, flashing is not for everyone, and if you’re not comfortable with the process, it might be better to seek professional assistance or stick with official updates provided by OPPO. With the right knowledge and tools, however, flashing your OPPO F1s can be a great way to unlock the full potential of your smartphone.