What is QFIL?
QFIL is an abbreviated form for Qualcomm Flash Image Loader which is a lightweight utility tool developed by Qualcomm Technologies Inc. with the purpose for use to servicing Qualcomm-powered devices. As a Windows application, this tool is compatible with and can be installed on Windows computers running Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8 and 8.1, 10 and 11.
Purposes QFIL can serve include:
- To flash stock firmware on Qualcomm-based devices.
- To flash individual partitions onto Qualcomm-powered devices. This includes stock recovery or custom recovery such as CWM, TWRP among others.
- To fix corrupt NV partitions.
In this article, we provide you with links to download all versions of QFIL including the latest QFIL version and the older versions. You also get to learn about how to install and use QFIL plus an overview of its entire features.
Although there has been formidable competiton between SoC manufacturers, with Mediatek being the major contender for Qualcomm, major flagships are still being shipped with Qualcomm chipsets, making QFIL an indispensable tool for Android smartphone users wanting to flash their devices.
Similar to SP Flash Tool which is more like an official utility tool for Mediatek-powered devices just as QFIL is to devices powered by Qualcomm chipsets, QFIL is more straightforward and userfriendly when it comes down to flashing Qualcomm-based Android devices.

This tutorial makes the whole process of flashing even more simpler such that beginners can easily flash their devices following the step by step guides as outlined.
But first, QFIL download links are provided just below. While downloading the latest QFIL flash tool is recommended, you may download any version that suits your specific needs from the table below.
QFIL Download Links
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Download Latest QFIL Tool
Latest Qualcomm Flash Image Loader Details Name Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.3.5 Version v2.0.3.5 - Latest Developer Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. Core Function Service Tool for Flashing Qualcomm Devices Supported OS Windows 7 (32bit / 64bit)
Windows 8/8.1 (32bit / 64bit)
Windows 10 (32bit / 64bit)
Windows 11 (32bit / 64bit)Version File Size and Format v2.0.3.5 3.09 Mb .7z Download Links Download -
Download Older Versions of QFIL
Qualcomm Flash Image Loader (QFIL) Old Versions Version Size & Format Download Links v1.0.0.2 1.08 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v1.0.0.2 .7z v1.0.0.3 1.92 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v1.0.0.3 .7z v2.0.0.0 1.33 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.0.0 .7z v2.0.0.2 1.37 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.0.2 .7z v2.0.0.3 1.41 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.0.3 .7z v2.0.0.4 1.52 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.0.4 .7z v2.0.0.5 1.71 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.0.5 .7z v2.0.1.1 1.72 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.1.1 .7z v2.0.1.7 1.88 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.1.7 .7z v2.0.1.8 1.49 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.1.8 .7z v2.0.1.9 1.92 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.1.9 .7z v2.0.2.3 1.96 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.2.3 .7z v2.0.3.4 3.09 Mb Download Qualcomm_Flash_Image_Loader_v2.0.3.4 .7z
Major Features of QFIL - Qualcomm Flash Image Loader
Because QFIL was stripped out from QPST which is the original application QFIL was a part of, QFIL is more like a lightweight replica of QPST and can therefore perform every functions of QPST just as efficiently.
Below are a few of the major tasks QFIL can accomplish:
-
Flash Stock Firmware or Factory OS
Either with the aim to manually upgrade the device OS or to correct certain software malfunctions in the smartphone, QFIL is commonly used to flash factory firmware on Qualcomm devices. This is usually the case when there is need to unbrick a bricked Qualcomm device as you cannot fully resurrect a dead Qualcomm android smartphone without flashing firmware on it.
-
Flash Custom Recovery Files
Similar to how stock ROM is flashed, you may singularly flash custom recovery on android devices that are powered by Qualcomm chipsets if you prefer. Of course, you are required to have your desired custom recovery
.img
file handy. You may proceed to download either of CWM or TWRP recovery.img
file for your exact device before you begin. -
Fix Corrupt NV Partition
In the case of corrupt NV partition that usually happens after flashing wrong system files, using QFIL, you can fix the issue by accessing and editing critical configuration settings that are stored in the NV memory. Alternatively, you may also re-write or flash new data on the NV memory using the tool.
-
Manage IMEI, MEID and ESN Data
Critical device identifiers such as IMEI, MEID and ESN data which are critical for activating devices on cellular networks can be managed using QFIL. You may be able to write, re-write, erase or alter these data in ways that may mask the device identity in the face of the cellular networks.
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Backup and Restore of Various Qualcomm Device Partitions
Advanced users use QFIL to create backups of Qualcomm device firmware, individual partitions and even the device settings which can later be used to recover the same device or other devices but of the same model and sometimes, exact variant. This feature is also used for preserving Qualcomm devices data in case of loss of data on the device in the future.
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Qualcomm Devices Diagnosis
Beyond others, technicians also use QFIL to diagnose devices for hardware and software issues. Using this feature, technicians can read and identify issues around Qualcomm devices' sensors, connectivity, network and other performance abnormalities thereby enhancing troubleshooting.
Now, we may proceed to discuss how to flash factory firmware on Qualcomm-powered Android devices using QFIL.
Disclaimer:
This is to clarify that any actions you take based on the information provided in this guide are entirely at your own risk. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the safety or success of any modifications you make to your device.
Therefore, we will not be held responsible for any damage, errors, issues or otherwise; any unpleasant outcome that may occur to your handset while or after following this guide. It is essential that you carefully read and understand all instructions before proceeding and only attempt these modifications if you have sufficient knowledge and expertise. Remember to always proceed with caution and take appropriate precautions to minimize any risks involved.
How to Flash Qualcomm-based Android Devices Using QFIL
First, the prerequisites:
- This tool may only be used on Windows PC.
- To be used on Qualcomm-based devices only. To flash Mediatek-powered devices, you may see SP Flash Tool Step by Step Guides Here.
- QFIL tool only supports
.mbn
and.elf
firmware formats only. - Download Qualcomm Android drivers here and install it on your PC. Without the drivers properly installed, QFIL will not detect your device.
- Download the latest version of QFIL from above and extract its content onto a folder on your PC. Preferrably, it should be extracted on your desktop.
- Ensure your device battery is up to 60% - 75% charged.
- Enable USB Debugging option on the device. To do this, go to Settings > Developer Options > USB Debugging. Or, for Android 13 up, go to Settings > System Management > Developer Options > USB Debugging
- For backward restoration purposes, you should keep an unrooted backup data of the device.
Now, let us proceed.
- To begin, remember to download the latest version of QFIL from the table above and extract it onto a folder on your PC.
- Also, download and install the Qualcomm drivers as instructed from above. Once these two are done, you may SKIP these steps and proceed.
- Launch the QFIL.exe file from the folder mentioned in step 1 above.
- Once the app is launched, a screen similar to this below should appear.
- Now, power off your device.
- Wait a few seconds to be sure your device is switched off, then, press and hold the Volume Up key and connect the device to the PC using its compatible USB Cable.
- Now, on QFIL screen, click Browse and navigate to the firmware folder. Remember QFIL supports only
.mbn
and.elf
files. - Once the firmware file is selected, click on Download button to commence the flashing operation.
- Once flashing commences, it may take up to 15 minutes to complete.
- Once flashing is completed, your device will reboot and you may now disconnect the device from the PC.
- Congratulations. You have just successfully flashed your Qualcomm-based smartphone or tablet device using QFIL.








Frequently Asked Questions
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What if QFIL Does Not Detect My Device?
This could happen for two major reasons;
- If defected USB cable is used.
- If the Qualcomm USB drivers are not properly installed.
Try to use the USB cable with another device to confirm and be sure the drivers are installed as instructed.
-
QFIL Download Button is Not Clickable. What to Do?
The download button only becomes active when the device has been detected by QFIL. And QFIL cannot detect the device if it is not correctly connected to the computer. Again, be sure the drivers are properly installed and connect the device while holding the Volume Up key.
-
What to Do if My Device Fails to Boot After Flashing Using QFIL?
- Boot the device to recovery mode and factory reset the device then, attempt to boot up the device again.
- Verify that you have used the correct firmware that is meant for your exact device model and variant while flashing.
- Repeat the flashing again, ensuring that there is no interruption this time.
- If the issue persists, consult a professional technician in the field.
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How Can I Boot to Recovery Mode?
Boot method varies from device to device. Except for the
cmd
adb reboot recovery command that is unique for all. You may check this page for how to boot your android device to recoevry mode