yashsingh1/xdaforums huggingface dataset:
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Guys I have to chime in and ask everybody to do their part to help me keep this thread on topic. I've been guilty of off-topic posting myself so I'm not pointing anybody out here. The mods are getting strict on keeping these threads organized and on the point. This guide includes four methods for restoring firmware, all of which are strictly Windows based. .LiveSuit is available for Linux, and I included links in the OP for instructions on using the tool with Linux builds. Please keep this thread on point by discussing only Windows-based methods for restoring the Scepter 8 factory firmware. Thanks for your help .
[General Topics] Bubba The Hack:
I thought that the point of the thread was

not

which OS was used to do the job regarding the topic, but how to do the job on any OS.

Are you saying that you must start another for that purpose? That doesn't make sense.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Not at all. What I'm saying is that the instructions outlined in this thread are strictly Windows based. The methodology is the entire point of the thread . All four methods use a Windows setup. So discussing Linux and methods based on other operating systems is off topic. However, such topics cah be discussed in my other thread titled General Info & Discussion. The forum mods are being very strict on this point.

Any topics regarding the QLink Scepter 8 can be discussed here

QLink Scepter 8 General Info/Discussion

Don't think I'm picking on you. I appreciate the info & help you give to others. The mods are becoming more and more adamant on keeping threads on topic, so I'm just doing my part. Thanks @Bubba The Hack, your feedback is always welcome. It would be very helpful if you would post a detailed, step-by-step guide on the method you used.
[General Topics] JovialQuestion:
You are correct that it is their way of doing things however. The default way is through flashing images. The reason they do it this way is to protect proprietary information that is why they encrypt their images that is why you have to decrypt it with their software that is why you have to use their software that chooses what to flash where to flash and how. As to never give the consumer the ability to flash individual partitions with their code. This is a very complicated way of doing this and I did not attempt nor will I attempt to do it. I simply just use the image packing tools they provided to unpack it and then as they were flashed them into their partitions. On another note found out that software Phoenix and livesuit are always active in the background therefore every time your device power cycles it kicks in and tells your device to boot back into the flashing mode so it can initialize a system update so if you are leaving the device plugged in to your computer even if the software is closed that software will become active and it will reboot it into a power off State so it can then attempt to flash it again as it is persistent. This was the issue with Scarlett's device all along I have confirmed by checking the software and task manager before and after plugging in the device and it immediately becomes active hidden in the background. I do not have the energy to explain flashing it again if you have basic knowledge of using fast food in Android tools to use the bootloader provided to flash images just flash their partitions as they should if all else fails you can always run the software that they provided and restore the entire device. But after you unpack the images only use the partitions that appear when you're in fastbootd Getvar all none of the guitar commands work in bootloader one but in user space bootloader they do work. Also ADB shell get prop also has some of the partitions listed that are not listed in the bootloader just ride on the side of caution if you don't know what the partition name is and it doesn't match the image you're trying to flash probably don't do it
[General Topics] JovialQuestion:
Sorry about that. As you are the creator of this thread can you create a thread for alternatives. I don't want to create one based off of one you've already created. This way or prevent future derailments of topic

If anyone would like to discuss restoring the firmware onto the device with Linux distributions anything other than Windows even if you wish to do it with another Android phone. Message me so we're not taking up this group's time with the windows instructions to give other people a chance to understand how to do this that may not have Linux.

If you're inquiring to flash your device using another Android device please either have two devices that connect with a c-type charger and a c-type to c type plug adapter to charge your phone with as it has the same adapter on both sides or an OTG adapter for a USB cord and verify that your phone supports OTG by attempting to hook a USB flash drive into the adapter if you don't meet these requirements you are unable to use the device or at all to flash another device you will need a computer
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Again guys, we don't need to be discussing other methods for restoring firmware in this thread. I'm leaving this thread Windows based only. The methods are tried and true and have been confirmed to work on dozens of Scepter 8 tablets. For those that want to use other operating systems for restoring firmware, please discuss those methods over in the General Info & Discussion thread.. Discussing those methods here is off topic and causes confusion for new members -- and, it's going to result in sanctions by the forum mods. Keep the discussions on topic please.
[General Topics] Bubba The Hack:
@Viva La Android , but I did write up that HowTo as I said a long time ago. You already have it.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Yes, but It would be best suited written up in a separate, dedicated guide. That way, individual methods are not haphazard, ambiguous or overlapping, but rather compartmentalized and concise.
[General Topics] Bubba The Hack:
I wish you had stated that at the time. I could have been working on another thread subject.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I didn't know myself at the time. The moderators set the guidelines, not me. All I can do is try to comply.. The same will apply on the bootloader unlocking and rooting thread; any topics not directly related to unlocking or rooting will be flagged and possibly removed. I totally understand the logic behind the rule though: it keeps the threads organized and relevant to the intent.

Glad you got the drivers ironed out on PhoenixUSB Pro. I'm in the process of adding a section I'm the OP on troubleshooting recognition issues..
[General Topics] Bubba The Hack:
Aw, well. What can we do.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
The red arrow denotes the correct Device Manager device name when the tablet is in FEL flash mode. You do not need fastboot or ADB recognition in order to flash firmware with any of the tools outlined in the OP. This stands to reason due to the fact that the Allwinner flash tools I've outlined are capable of restoring a completely bricked and corrupted device which isn't capable of booting into fastboot mode,v recovery mode, or the Android OS.

Of course, it's a good idea to configure ADB & Fastboot per the instructions in the OP because these command line tools are needed in the rooting thread. Moreover, the 15-Secobd ADB Installer configures the Google universal device drivers as well.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Guys, I know there were a couple of members having unresolved device recognition issues while using the flash tools outlined in this thread. I have thoroughly analyzed and studied this problem, and have included a section in the preparation instructions for installing Allwinner FEL mode drivers. This should fully resolve any such issues with tablet recognition. In essence, this problem is caused by a missing or misconfigured generic device driver which is bundied with the Windows OS. Now, before commencing with the firmware flashing process,an adequate universal Allwinner FEL mode driver will first be installed and configured. The drivers are packaged in a Windows installer, so eveeything is very simple. @ScarletWizard this shouid resolve your problem in this

regard.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@ScarletWizard , CyanogenMod was discontinued a few years back. If you're referring to LineageOS, v19.1 GSI works great on the Scepter 8, via Project Treble compatibility. You don't need TWRP to install it. It's done through FastbootD mode and the /product _a & _b partitions must be deleted in order to make room for the GSiI image. It's a tedious process but if you want to install it I'll get you links to GSI installation instructions.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I don't know of any videos. These are the official Project Treble forums here on XDA. You need to do much reading and get familiar with the concept, then focus on installation.

Project Treble

The Android 8.0 release includes Project Treble, a major re-architect of the Android OS framework designed to make it easier, faster, and less costly for manufacturers to update devices to a new version of Android. Treble is for all new devices launching with Android 8.0 and beyond.

xdaforums.com

Any future inquiries on Treble or other topics needs to be on the General Info & Discussion thread here https://xdaforums.com/t/index-guide...eneral-info-discussion-thread.4385631//unread

This thread is for stock firmware topics only. I've been trying to keep the threads tidy and on topic. Thanks for your consideration.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Absolutely. I've tried to install a couple of other GSI builds, but LineageOS is the only one I've had good results with. Location services are a bit buggy, but otherwise a pretty smooth ROM. You can choose a GSI with or without Google apps preinstalled.
[General Topics] JovialQuestion:
Um. I am going to remove myself from this thread here. and I want to remind people. I do not work for anyone and I provided help to an individual out of kindness. This individual needs to remember that before saying I owe them money now.. lesson learned.

Have a great day Scarlett
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Am I absolutely blind or is there no Allwinner link to download said drivers? I swear I have looked a thousand times....
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
No, you are correct the link was missing. I have added it to the downloads section. Install those drivers and that should resolve your issue. Thank you for bringing this to my attention.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@LilithJezebel, let me know how things go once you get the Allwinner drivers installed. Much thanks.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Should it immediately begin to show progress on the screen? I am still staring at zeroes lol.

I did install drivers by running as admin, then rebooted. Did the vol down + power button tap, PhoenixSuit picks up on it, press Yes for format, and...nada :(
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Okay I tried to go back and start over, and install the drivers again, and it is saying Install Failed? I am pretty sure that it installed the first time, but I was clicking pretty fast so IDK, maybe this is why it isn't working?

@Viva La Android

I re-downloaded the driver file and same result.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Before plugging the micro USB end into the tablet, hold volume up or down, either of which will suffice. As soon as you plug the cable into the tablet, continue holding volume up/down and begin pressing the power button at one second intervals, up to ten times. PhoenixSuit should then recognize the tablet. Once the flash tool prompts that the firmware flashing has commenced, release the volume key, then allow the progress to continue to 100%, at which time you may reboot your device. If the Allwinner drivers are failing to install, you may need to disable driver signature enforcement on your computer. A Google search will yield multiple step-by-step guides on the process.

If, after continued efforts, your tablet still isn't being recognized, consider trying Method 4, which flashes firmware with the aide of a micro SD card.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Well I disabled driver signature enforcement, installed the drivers successfully, the tablet connected, but PhoenixSuit will still not install the firmware. It acts like it is going to, same as before, but just sits there doing nothing. Soooo, I ordered an SD card adapter so I can try method 4. Hopefully that one will work - we will find out Saturday when it gets here!

Thanks so much for all of your help so far. I greatly appreciate you! :)
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I know these are obvious troubleshooting steps, but have you changed USB cables, USB ports, and have you tried either of the other 2 flash tools?
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Yep, all of the above. I even tried a different, older laptop, and no bueno.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
It just occurred to me..what if I downloaded the wrong firmware?? *sigh*

Am gonna download other versions just to check and see.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
What version is your tablet? Android 11 or Android 12?
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
It is 12.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Ok so try all 3 firmware packages for Android 12 (Go Edition) in the downloads section, the newest package first.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Yep the newest one is the one I had tried. Downloading the 2nd newest now...my internet is super slow though so it is gonna take a while.

Is it possible that my slow internet may cause corruption when I download? Or does the .rar protect against that?
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
It is certainly possible, and worth a try downloading again. Try the 2nd newest package like you mentioned and lets see if it works.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Annnnd we have liftoff! PhoenixSuit successfully installed the 2nd version of the firmware. I'm back in the tablet, and about to try again with the other guide. Thanks again for all of your help!
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
This is excellent news. Nice work.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@LilithJezebel, I am trying to differentiate the various models of the QLink Scepter 8 tablet. Since your model would not flash with the V02 Android 12 (GE) firmware package, but did flash the second newest package (which is V01), I am theorizing that there are in fact 2 hardware variants of the latest Allwinner-A133 QLink Scepter 8.

If you could post a photo of the manufacturer's label located on the rear casing of your tablet, that would help me tremendously in making this determination. Thank you. Also, I am working on getting you some assistance for your rooting issue.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@JovialQuestion, how are you these days, and are you still active on the threads?
[General Topics] monpiere:
so I have been struggling for a while with this tablet. I'm trying to restore to factory firmware and I am fairly certain that I have the A133 version. I have tried getting the usb drivers set up right but I think I have too many different drivers installed and I'm not sure how to remove them. I tried following your instructions but I'm lost. I also can't get the phoenix card software to work properly. Can you please help me!
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
@Viva La Android Sure thing, here ya go! :)
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Thank you much. This confirms my theory -- there are in fact two different models of the latest Allwinner-A133 Scepter 8 tablet. That is why the V02 firmware image wouldn't flash to your tablet. I will revise the OP with this info. Thanks again.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Wow, okay, I am glad that is the case because I was over here feeling insane haha. Thought I was somehow doing something wrong!

So what is the next step from here (for rooting)? Or are you stuck since no working tablet?

Either way, I thank you again for everything, and am very grateful for you. :)
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I do apologize for my belated reply to your inquiry. I do have positive news. A very generous individual has donated the funds for my purchase of a new Scepter 8 (I actually ordered both chipset variants). So at this time I am unfortunately unable to aide you in troubleshooting your rooting issue. However, as soon as my tablets arrive I will be back in business.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Hey that is awesome news, I'm glad you are able to continue with this!
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I am as well. I have reached out to any members with the latest tablet model, who have root access, to give you a hand with troubleshooting your rooting issue.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Oh thank you so much, greatly appreciated! I don't mind waiting tho if I need to. Definitely want to follow on what happens. I'm also interested to know if you still have it on your list to customize a splash screen for this tablet?
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Indeed, merely to alleviate the annoying Orange State (bootloader unlocked) notification during the boot sequence. The custom splash screen will simply revert to the default splash screen, which is utilized when the bootloader is in its unmodified, locked state.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Greetings QLink Scepter 8 owners. I have just received the latest Android 12 (Go Edition) firmware builds from China. I am now downloading those builds from Hot Pepper Mobile's software support servers, and will be posting links in the OP later this evening. It appears that both builds have the October 1, 2022 security patch level.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@LilithJezebel I would like to try and work through your problem with you. My new devices aren't here yet but I think I can help without one. I'll meet you over in the rooting thread when you're ready.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Okay sure! My only issue at the present moment is, I am playing some games through Swagbucks for $, and I will lose out on about $80 if I have to start clean (it messes up the referral and tracking). I should be done with them in a week though! (By Wednesday next week)
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Sound good. You message me via PM Wednesday next week or whenever you are ready. My devices should be in Wednesday of this week. But when you're ready next week -- or whenever -- just let me know.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
The latest Android 12 (Go Edition) firmware builds are live in the downloads section of the OP.
[General Topics] JovialQuestion:
Yes I am. Sorry was on vacation with family. What's up
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Hope you had a good hiatus my friend. Relaxation is good for the spirit.

I was going to ask you to lend a hand to a member who is having problems rooting his tablet. He has the newer model. But, my new device should come in today, so I'll be able to troubleshoot his issue.

By the way, you have the Android 12 Go Edition model, correct? If so the latest firmware builds are up in the downloads section. I have learned that there are two variants of the new model, based on the first two letters of the serial number. See my revisions to the thread in this regard if you have the latest model.

Thank you for touching base.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Hi,

Pinging you here just in case you didn't see the message I sent yesterday.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
@Viva La Android hey are you ok?? Just checking!
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Been under the weather a week straight. Im recovered now and have a new device to work with. So are you ready to root? It'll be this evening before I can assist you, but I wanted to touch base to let you know I've not forgotten you.
[General Topics] LilithJezebel:
Man I am sorry to hear that, glad you are better now though!

And yep I am ready. I'll be on the computer all day pretty much, so I will keep an eye on email alerts. tysm!
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Thanks. I'll be with you in about a half hour. I have a super easy procedure for you to attain root access.
[General Topics] Jeffrobertson2k19:
can you post the firmware for MD2201ap12151286, please....i am having FRP problems and cant get past it. ALso ADB Debugging and dev sets is not on...I have no way of getting into it to do so.
[General Topics] Jeffrobertson2k19:
Maybe even show us how your getting the firmware for this device or even any device for that matter. I do alot of local rooting and jailbreaking for customers but have a hard time researching the required files for some devices.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
On this particular device, I get the factory firmware images directly from the manufacturer of the QLink Scepter 8, Hot Pepper Mobile.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Gentlemen and ladies, the thread is open again and all firmware links have been restored.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
The PhoenixCard firmware burning tool in the OP has been updated to v4.2.4.
[General Topics] JovialQuestion:
Sorry. I got locked out of my account. I remembered the password today lol. I've only been successful with these devices with fastboot. So if anyone needs help still. I can try to help. Sorry about the time that's passed. I hate passwords 😂
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
It happens to the best of us @JovialQuestion. In fact, I had the same incident happen to me about a year ago. Following that, I took the time to set up two-factor authentication and ensured that my account recovery protocol was up to date and accurate.

Anyway, it's good to hear from you. I trust you are ready for the Holidays which have snuck right up on us. Stay in touch and, as always, thank you for your willingness to assist other members. That's the true XDA Spirit. 🤗 Happy Holidays to you and yours.​
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
For any members experiencing issues with firmware restoration while using any of the proprietary flash tools linked in the OP(e.g. device recognition), message or tag @JovialQuestion in a post requesting assistance. He can provide instruction and guidance using a fastboot method for restoring factory firmware on the Scepter 8.
[General Topics] VenomousSteam81:
Any luck with it in 2023?
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
I'm on hiatus. Health issues. I won't be on the forums much until spring season.
[General Topics] VenomousSteam81:
oh that sucks. didnt know. hope it gets better soon!
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Thank you for the kind words.
[General Topics] VenomousSteam81:
no problem
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
Alas, you were flashing the incorrect package for your model. The v9 firmware package is for the Android 11 Go Edition model. Only download Android 12 Go Edition firmware. The factory images are organized in accordance to the hardware models. Also, be sure to check the first two letters of your serial number. It will begin with either CF or MD. Download the factory image that corresponds with your serial number variant.
[General Topics] darkwolftech:
Every link I tired for firmware is dead
[General Topics] CDusty:
I am finding dead links in this thread as well as the "Magisk Patched Boot Image" in the root guide.
[General Topics] Sands207:
The firmware I downloaded from this thread previously soft bricked my tablet, be careful

Same here
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@Sands207 If the firmware soft bricked your tablet', that is definitely because you flashed it incorrectly. The firmware images are signed by Hot Pepper Mobile, the company that manufactured the QLink Scepter 8. Follow the simple instructions and ensure you have downloaded the correct image for your model. Your device will be restored just like every other member who has used this guide.

The links are going to be down while I do some maintenance and transitioning to a new file host server.
[General Topics] Viva La Android R.I.P.:
@Sands207, one thing to be especially mindful of is the hardware variations. Your SN will begin with either a CF or MD, on both the Gen 1 and Gen 2 models. Be sure you download your firmware from the corresponding section in this regard.