Vivo Firmware Guide: Finding and Flashing Stock ROMs

To reflash or unbrick a Vivo device, you must identify the specific chipset used by your model and use the corresponding flashing tool. By downloading the correct stock ROM and following the appropriate procedure for Qualcomm, MediaTek, or SPD/Unisoc platforms, you can restore the device to its factory state.

Vivo Device Chipsets and Firmware Compatibility

Vivo utilizes a variety of chipsets across its product lines, which determines which software tools are required for flashing. Based on a sample of the 600 most recently added files from our library of 919 Vivo firmware packages, the brand relies heavily on MediaTek and Qualcomm platforms.

MediaTek Chipsets

MediaTek (MTK) devices are common in the Vivo ecosystem. Frequently seen chipsets include the MT6765, MT6768, MT6582, MT6750, MT6835, and MT6833. These devices typically require the SP Flash Tool for firmware installation.

Qualcomm Chipsets

Vivo also employs several Qualcomm Snapdragon processors. Common examples found in our database include the SM7250, MSM8953, SM6125, and SDM439. Qualcomm-based devices generally require QFIL (part of the Qualcomm QPST suite) to flash rawprogram and patch XML files.

SPD/Unisoc Chipsets

A smaller number of Vivo devices use Spreadtrum (SPD) or Unisoc chipsets. These models are flashed using tools such as SPD ResearchDownload or UpgradeDownload.

Selecting the Correct Stock ROM for Your Model

Choosing the wrong firmware file can lead to a hard brick, rendering the device permanently unusable. Because Vivo often releases different versions of the same model for different regions or carriers, you must be precise when selecting a file.

1. Verify the Exact Model Number: Do not rely on the marketing name (e.g., "Vivo Z5X"). Instead, find the specific model code, such as PD1911, PD1990, or V1911a. This information is usually found in the device settings or printed on the back of the phone.
2. Match the Chipset: Ensure the firmware package corresponds to the chipset in your device. For example, a file intended for a MediaTek MT6765 device cannot be flashed onto a Qualcomm SM7250 device.
3. Check the Android Version: Depending on your goal (updating or downgrading), verify the Android version of the ROM. Our library contains a wide range of versions, from legacy Android 2.3 and 4.0 to modern Android 14.
4. Identify the Package Type: Some files are OTA (Over-the-Air) updates, while others are full stock ROMs intended for use with flashing tools like QFIL or SP Flash Tool.

You can browse the full collection of available files at /category/vivo.

Essential Safety Precautions Before Flashing

Flashing firmware is a high-risk operation. To minimize the chance of failure or data loss, adhere to the following safety rules:

• Confirm Model Match: Always confirm that the firmware matches the exact device model before beginning the process.
• Back Up Your Data: Flashing stock ROMs can erase all personal data. Ensure you have a complete backup of your files, contacts, and messages.
• Maintain Power: Keep the battery charged above 50%. A power failure during the flashing process can cause a permanent brick.
• Stable Connection: Do not disconnect the USB cable or move the device while the flashing tool is running.
• Avoid Critical Erase Options:
  • On MediaTek devices, always use the "Download Only" option. Never use "Format All + Download," as this erases the IMEI and NVRAM calibration data.
  • On SPD/Unisoc devices, leave the "Erase NV" box unticked unless you specifically intend to wipe the IMEI and calibration data.

Note: Instructions regarding IMEI changing, FRP (Factory Reset Protection) bypass, Google-account bypass, or carrier-lock circumvention are out of scope for this guide.

Flashing Qualcomm Devices Using QFIL

Devices powered by Qualcomm chipsets are flashed using the Qualcomm Flash Image Loader (QFIL), which is part of the Qualcomm QPST toolset.

Prerequisites

To use QFIL, you must install the Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 driver on your PC. Without this driver, the software will not recognize the device in the required state.

Entering EDL Mode

The device must be in Emergency Download (EDL) mode to be flashed. This is typically achieved through one of the following methods: * Using a specific key combination while connecting the USB cable. * Using a hardware test point on the motherboard. * Executing the command adb reboot edl via a computer if the bootloader allows it.

Flashing Process

1. Launch QFIL and ensure the "Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008" port is detected. You must verify this detection before pressing the Download button.
2. Load the programmer file, which typically follows the naming convention prog_*_firehose*.mbn or .elf.
3. Load the rawprogram and patch XML files provided in the firmware package.
4. Once the files are loaded and the device is detected, initiate the download process.

Flashing MediaTek and SPD/Unisoc Devices

MediaTek (MTK)

MediaTek devices are primarily flashed using the SP Flash Tool. The process involves loading a scatter file that tells the tool where to write each partition on the device's memory. For detailed instructions on using this tool, refer to the /blog/how-to-use-sp-flash-tool-mediatek-firmware-flashing-guide.

As a reminder, always select "Download Only" to protect your device's unique calibration data.

SPD/Unisoc

Devices using SPD or Unisoc chipsets require the ResearchDownload or UpgradeDownload tools. These tools function similarly to the MTK process but use different package formats. Ensure that "Erase NV" remains unticked to avoid losing your IMEI.

Example Vivo Firmware Files

Below are examples of stock firmware files available in our library. These demonstrate the variety of model numbers and chipsets used by Vivo.

• Vivo Z6 5G PD1963: A Qualcomm SM7250 based device. Download here.
• Vivo Z5X V1911a: A Qualcomm SDM710 based device. Download here.
• Vivo Z5X PD1911: A Qualcomm SDM710 based device. Download here.
• Vivo Z5X PD1990: A Qualcomm SDM710 based device. Download here.
• Vivo Y91i PD1818GF: A MediaTek MT6765 based device. Download here.
• Vivo Y91 PD1818E: A MediaTek MT6765 based device. Download here.
• Vivo Y70S V2002A: A Qualcomm based device flashed via QFIL. Download here.
• Vivo Z1 PD1730C: An OTA update package. Download here.