Owners of popular Chinese head units are often faced with the need to update software. The version Android 10 on devices such as Xtrons, Junsun or Pumpkinmay work unstable due to errors in the code. The update allows you to fix bugs, improve operation navigation and speed up the response of the touch screen.
The flashing process requires care and adherence to a strict sequence of actions. Selecting the wrong file can result in the device being turned into a brick. In this article, we will look at how to determine the type of processor, where to get the official files, and how to safely install a new system.
Before you take any active steps, you need to understand the architecture of your device. Most radio tape recorders are Android 10 built on chips Rockchip, MediaTek or Allwinner. The installation method and firmware file format depend on this.
Preparing equipment and searching for firmware
The first step is to identify the current version of the system. Go to the menu Settings → About device and find the “Build version” or “MCU version” field. Write down this data, as it is critical for selecting compatible software.
Download files only from trusted sources. Official websites of manufacturers or specialized forums such as 4PDAare the most reliable options. Avoid dubious resources where files can be modified by attackers.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure that the downloaded firmware is intended specifically for your processor model. An attempt to install a file from MediaTek to a device with Rockchip is guaranteed to disable the radio.
You will need a high-quality USB flash drive with a capacity of up to 32 GB. Large drives may not be recognized by older versions of Android in recovery mode. Formatting must be done in the file system FAT32.
Use a flash drive with a minimum number of entries. It is better to format it specifically for the firmware to eliminate file table conflicts.
After downloading the archive, unpack it. Inside you should find a file with the extension .img or .zip, and sometimes a folder with the name type update. The structure of the files depends on the hardware manufacturer.
Determination of the processor type and firmware method
The update method directly depends on the “heart” of your radio. There are three main methods that cover 95% of all devices on the market. You cannot make a mistake here, since the procedures are radically different.
Devices based on Rockchip (RK3066, RK3188, PX6) usually require the use of a special utility on a PC or updating through a hidden engineering menu. They are characterized by a firmware file with the extension .img.
If you have a chip from MediaTek (MTK), the process often occurs through the Recovery menu or application MCU Update. Such systems are more sensitive to power interruptions while recording sections.
Processors Allwinner often use the update method via a memory card or a specific file script.bin. Owners of such devices need to be especially careful with the version of the system kernel.
Instructions for flashing firmware via a USB drive
This is the most common and safest method for most users. It does not require connection to a computer or special cables, except for the flash drive itself.
Copy the firmware file to the root of the flash drive. Do not place it in folders unless the specific model instructions indicate otherwise. Insert the drive into the port USB 1 or USB 2 (usually they are white or blue).
Reboot the radio. In most cases, the system will automatically detect the update file and prompt you to start the process. If this does not happen, you will need to manually start through the settings menu.
☑️ Checklist before starting the firmware
Press the confirmation button on the screen. The process of copying data and overwriting memory sections will begin. The screen may go dark and turn on several times - this is normal behavior.
⚠️ Attention: It is strictly forbidden to remove the flash drive or turn off the ignition until a success message appears. Interrupting the recording will damage the bootloader.
After installation is complete, the device will perform a full reset (Factory Reset). This is necessary for the correct operation of new system libraries.
Updating via a computer and engineering menu
For advanced users or in cases where the radio does not see the flash drive, there is a method of direct connection to a PC. It requires drivers and special software.
You will need a app Rockchip Batch Tool or an analogue for your chip. Connect the radio to the computer via a USB cable type Male-to-Male (both ends are type A).
Activate debugging mode. To do this, go to Settings → About device and quickly click 7-10 times on the “Build number” item. The message “You have become a developer” will appear.
ADB Connect 192.168.1.101:5555Now you can enter a command to switch to firmware mode. In some cases, you need to close certain contacts on the board or press a hidden button Reset when connecting the cable.
What to do if the PC does not see the radio?
Try another USB port (preferably USB 2.0 on the back of the system unit). Install ADB drivers manually through Device Manager. Check the cable for integrity - many cables are intended only for charging and do not transmit data.
Upload the image into the app and press the button Upgrade or Restore. The process will take from 5 to 15 minutes depending on the amount of memory.
Firmware for the microcontroller (MCU) and radio part
Often users update only Android, forgetting about the MCU. This is a separate microcontroller responsible for the operation of the buttons on the steering wheel, control of the amplifier and the CAN bus.
The mismatch between Android and MCU versions leads to the radio turning on, but not responding to presses or not exiting sleep mode. The file for the MCU usually has the extension .bin.
The update occurs through the app MCU Update or in the factory menu. Select the file and click "Update". The device will reboot separately from the main system.
| Parameter | Android OS | MCU Firmware |
|---|---|---|
| Responsible for | Interface, applications, WiFi | Buttons, sound, power, CAN |
| Frequent |