Last Updated: June 2, 2026
Get your SM-N986B/DS Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G working again with the official Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS firmware. This page contains every file and step required to handle FRP removal, hard resets, and full system repairs.
Device: Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS | Chipset: Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) | Flash Tool: Odin
Android: Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5.1 | File Type: .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin)
⚠ Warning: Flashing erases all data. Back up first.
Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS Firmware (Flash File) Drivers, Tools & Guide
Installing stock software on a Samsung phone using Odin is a simple process when you have the correct files. This page provides the exact Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS firmware, the proper Odin version, and the steps that actually work.
Before starting, sign out of your Samsung account. Skipping this step triggers Knox security, leaving you with a KG lock that takes extra time to clear. Also, remember that Samsung packages use a .tar.md5 format. Once you extract the main folder, look for files labeled AP_*, BL_*, CP_*, and CSC_* (or HOME_CSC_*). Missing these means you downloaded the wrong package.
The Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS firmware arrives as a compressed ZIP archive. Extract it using WinRAR or 7-Zip. You should see files named like AP_*.tar.md5, BL_*.tar.md5, CP_*.tar.md5, and CSC_*.tar.md5 (or HOME_CSC_*.tar.md5). If these are missing, the package is incorrect for your phone.
Flashing stock software intentionally wipes all data to resolve software issues. This process fixes FRP locks, app crashes, sluggish performance, forgotten screen locks, logo freezing, connectivity bugs, battery drain, and soft brick conditions.
Hard Reset Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS
To factory reset the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS without a PC, turn the phone completely off, then press and hold Volume Up + Power until the recovery menu loads. Use the volume buttons to highlight “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” and press the Power button to confirm.
A factory reset wipes all personal data and returns the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS to its original factory settings. This step resolves most software glitches, including sluggishness, system crashes, forgotten passwords, and continuous bootloops. If problems remain after the reset, the full Odin installation guide below will help.
Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS FRP Bypass
The most effective method to bypass FRP on the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS involves using a free Android apps launcher to access settings during the initial setup. Following a factory reset or software installation, a Google account lock (FRP) might appear. You can use our free Android apps launcher to get past it quickly. Removing your Google account before wiping the phone prevents this issue entirely.
Why Do We Need Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS Firmware?
Flashing the official Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS firmware resolves severe software problems, boot failures, and system errors. Samsung devices rely on Odin for software installation, regardless of the internal processor. Installing the official files can fix the following:
- Unlock a disabled or locked phone.
- Upgrade the operating system to the latest supported version.
- Eliminate freezing, lagging, and startup loops on your SM-N986B/DS Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G.
- Fix battery drain and over-the-air update failures.
- Reinstall the original stock ROM to maintain warranty status.
- Recover a phone that only boots into the recovery menu.
- Fix Knox or KG lock errors caused by an interrupted or incorrect installation.
Read more about stock ROMs and why flashing works.
Choosing the Right Firmware Version
Selecting the correct software version is critical before beginning the installation. Flashing the wrong file creates problems that are difficult to fix:
- Identify Your Exact Model Number: Open Settings › About Phone and check the full model number (e.g. SM-N986B/DS). The letter at the end indicates the region, U/U1 is USA, W is Canada, N is Korea, and B/F is Global. Installing files meant for another variant causes errors.
- Match the CSC (Region): The firmware filename includes a 3-letter region code that must match your phone. Find your current CSC under Settings › About Phone › Software Information or check the Service Provider line in Download Mode. Examples include XAA (US), BTU (UK), INS (India), and SER (Russia).
- Check the Binary Level: Look at the version string in your current software (e.g.
XXU9BZDP, the number after the letters represents the binary level). Downgrading to a lower binary level is blocked. If your phone runs Binary 9, you must install Binary 9 or higher. - Confirm the Build Date: The last 4 characters of the PDA version indicate the build date. The first character is the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), and the second is the month (A=Jan through L=Dec).
- Verify in Download Mode: Turn off the phone and hold Volume Down + Power to enter Download Mode. This screen displays your exact model, CSC, and current software version to verify before you proceed.
Firmware Details for Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS
Here is a quick overview of the official firmware specifications:
| Firmware Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Model | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS |
| Firmware Version | V00 |
| File Size | 716.82 MB |
| Android Version | Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5.1 |
| Platform | Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) |
| Release Date | Released 2020, August 21 |
| Region | Global, Africa and Asia |
| File Type | .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin) |
Which Firmware Version Should I Download?
Choosing the right software version depends on the specific issue your phone is experiencing. Find your current situation in the table below to identify the correct file:
| Your Situation | What I Recommend |
|---|---|
| Phone is completely dead or stuck on logo | the latest version, download this one. It is the latest Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS firmware available. |
| FRP / Google account lock only | See the FRP bypass guide above, you likely do not need the full firmware for this. |
| Not sure which region/CSC to download | Check Settings › About Phone › Software Information for your current CSC, or enter Download Mode (Volume Down + Power), it shows the CSC on screen. Match the 3-letter code (e.g. XAA, BTU, INS) to the firmware filename. |
| Phone slow after a recent OTA update | Try the next older version, sometimes the latest OTA introduces new bugs and an older build runs better. Make sure the binary level is the same or higher than what your device currently has. |
| IMEI missing after a previous flash | Re-flash the latest version first, then follow the IMEI repair guide. Do not skip the reflash. |
| the latest version failed with a flash error | Try the next older version instead and double-check your AP/BL/CP/CSC file assignments in Odin before assuming the firmware is the problem. |
| Restoring to factory / warranty repair | the latest version, clean state, fresh start. |
To determine which Samsung software is newer, check the last 4 characters of the PDA version string (e.g. S938BXXU9CZDP). The first character represents the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), the second represents the month (A=Jan, B=Feb… L=Dec, Z=final stable), and the final two represent the revision (0-9 then A-Z, where Z is highest). Always verify the binary level before comparing dates: the digit before the date code (e.g. XXU9CZDP = Binary 9). Downgrading to a lower binary level is impossible. If your phone operates on Binary 9, install Binary 9 or higher. Ensure the 3-letter CSC code matches your region.
Download Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS Firmware
Download the official stock firmware for your Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS below. The most recent release is the latest version. After downloading, check that the file size matches the table above. A mismatched file size points to a partial or corrupted download, which will cause installation errors.
| Software Details | Download Link | Members Link |
|---|---|---|
|
File Name: COMBINATION_FAC_FA81_J610GUBU1ARI4_FACFAC_CL14321305_QB19776235_REV00_user.rar Size: 716.82 MB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
Only install software that fully matches your exact device model. See the firmware selection guide above if you are not sure.
- Your model number is a variant of SM-N986B/DS with a different letter suffix. Check About Phone carefully, one letter difference can cause a failed or broken flash.
- Your chipset differs from Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830). Confirm in recovery mode before proceeding.
- You downloaded the file from a source other than this page.
- The file size differs significantly from the sizes listed in the table above, a size mismatch usually means a partial download, which will fail mid-flash.
Prerequisites for Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS Firmware
Prepare these items before opening Odin to install the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS firmware. Two common issues disrupt Samsung installations: failing to sign out of a Samsung account (which triggers KG lock) and using a low-quality USB cable that drops the connection. Always use a proper data cable.
- Back Up IMEI Numbers: Dial *#06# and write down both IMEI numbers now. You will need these if you need to restore your IMEI after flashing.
- Remove Google Accounts: Sign out of all Google accounts to prevent FRP lock after flashing.
- Remove Samsung Accounts: Sign out of all Samsung accounts to avoid KG lock.
- Back Up Your Data: Back up everything, photos, contacts, WhatsApp chats, important files. Flashing wipes the device completely.
- Charge Your Device: At least 50% battery. A device that powers off during a flash is very difficult to recover.
- USB Cable & PC: Use a proper data USB cable, not a charge-only cable, and a Windows computer with available USB ports.
- Install Required Drivers:
How to Install Firmware on Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS
Installing software on the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS requires Odin and the correct firmware files loaded into the proper slots. This guide uses Odin. Leave “Auto Reboot” and “F. Reset Time” checked in Odin for the cleanest result. Check our Odin versions page if you need help selecting a version.
- Download and Extract:
- Download the correct package and extract the ZIP to a simple folder path without spaces or special characters.
- Install the Listed Drivers:
- Confirm all drivers listed above are installed and restart your PC. Skipping the restart often causes driver failures.
- Load the Firmware File:
- In Odin, click “BL” and select the BL_*.tar.md5 file. Click “AP” and select the AP_*.tar.md5 file. Repeat for “CP” and “CSC”. Use HOME_CSC to keep data, or CSC for a clean wipe.
- Connect Your Device:
- Enter Download Mode by turning off the phone and holding Volume Down + Power until the warning screen appears. Press Volume Up to confirm. Connect the phone to your PC. Odin will display “Added..” in the log area when detected.
- Start Flashing:
- Click “Start” to begin. Do not touch the cable or device until the process finishes. Disconnecting early will brick the phone.
- Wait and Reboot:
- Disconnect the device once Odin shows “PASS.”. Power it on. The first boot takes up to 8 minutes.
Video Guide for Flashing
What to Expect After Flashing Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS Firmware
A successful Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS firmware installation will trigger a few normal behaviors during the first boot. Here is what to expect:
- How to know the flash was successful: Odin displays “PASS.” in green text at the top-left of the log area.
- First boot takes 3 to 8 minutes: The operating system is configuring itself. Do not force a restart, or you risk a bootloop.
- The phone will feel warm during first boot: This is normal and settles down after the initial setup finishes.
- All your apps are gone: This is expected. Reinstall them from the Play Store. A previous Google backup will offer to restore them automatically.
- Dial *#06# immediately after setup: Check your IMEI before inserting a SIM card. If it reads “unknown” or “null”, follow the IMEI repair guide first.
- Be careful when re-adding your Google account: If you skipped the removal step before flashing, an FRP prompt might appear. Add the account fresh during the setup wizard.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data: These should work immediately. If mobile data fails, manually re-enter your APN in Settings › SIM and Network.
- Stuck in a bootloop after first boot? Enter recovery mode and perform a factory reset (see the hard reset guide above). This clears leftover data from the old system.
- Samsung Smart Switch: After installing the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS firmware, Smart Switch might prompt you to install extra updates. Allow it to finish to ensure you have the latest security patches.
Missing IMEI or Corrupt Baseband on Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS After Flashing?
A missing IMEI or corrupt baseband on the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS usually stems from a corrupted EFS partition. This partition holds your IMEI and carrier details. Restoring an IMEI that does not belong to the original device is illegal in most regions, so only restore the number the phone had previously. Software like ChimeraTool or BFT can fix this. Check local regulations before proceeding.
Video Guide: How to repair IMEI
Common Issues When Flashing Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS
- Odin Shows “FAIL” Instead of “PASS”:
- This indicates a mismatch between the software region and your phone. Verify your exact model number in Settings › About Phone before selecting files.
- Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS Not Recognized by Odin:
- Reinstall the Samsung USB drivers and ensure the phone is in Download Mode. Try a different USB cable, as Odin is sensitive to cable quality.
- KG Lock / Knox Triggered After Flashing:
- This occurs when a Samsung account remains signed in or unofficial software is used. Sign out of all Samsung accounts before starting. Professional tools are usually required to remove an active KG lock.
- Boot Loop After Flashing:
- Enter recovery mode (Volume Up + Power) and perform a factory reset. This deletes leftover files from the previous system that cause conflicts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will flashing the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS firmware erase my data?
A: Yes. Using Odin to install this software resets the device to factory settings, including the default configurations for Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5.1. All accounts, photos, contacts, and applications will disappear. Back up necessary files beforehand, as recovery is impossible after the process finishes.
Q2: Is this firmware compatible with other Samsung models?
A: No. This package is designed exclusively for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS equipped with the Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) processor. Even a Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G with a slightly different suffix might use entirely different internal hardware. Installing incorrect files can severely damage your phone. Verify your exact model in Settings › About Phone.
Q3: Can I downgrade from the latest version to an older firmware version?
A: While sometimes possible on Exynos variants, downgrading is generally discouraged. Rolling back can introduce security vulnerabilities and app instability on Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5.1. If the newest release causes problems, leave a comment below to find a better solution.
Q4: What should I do if I encounter an FRP lock after flashing?
A: Utilize our free Android apps launcher. FRP activates on the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS when a Google account remains logged in prior to installation. Removing the account beforehand prevents this lock entirely.
Q5: Are custom ROM options available for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS?
A: This guide focuses solely on official Samsung stock software. The availability of custom ROMs for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS depends on open-source kernel support for the Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) chipset. Visit our Custom ROMs page or the XDA Developers forum for specific custom development threads.
Q6: My Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS is not detected by Odin. What should I do?
A: Start by reinstalling the Samsung USB drivers and restarting your computer. Switch to a USB 2.0 port instead of USB 3.0, as Samsung phones connect more reliably to the older standard. Temporarily disable your antivirus. If the issue persists, leave a comment with the exact error message for further assistance.
Q7: How do I enter recovery mode on my Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS?
A: Turn the phone completely off, then press and hold Volume Up + Power until the recovery menu appears. On older Samsung phones with a physical Home button, press Volume Up + Home + Power. The recovery menu displays the build number for your Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS, allowing you to verify the current software version.
Q8: My IMEI shows “unknown” after flashing the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS. Is my phone permanently damaged?
A: No, the phone is not permanently damaged, and the issue is fixable. Follow the IMEI repair guide in the troubleshooting section above. Check the EFS partition for corruption first. Do not insert a SIM card until the IMEI is fully restored.
Q9: How long does it take to flash Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS firmware?
A: The Odin installation process typically requires 3 to 10 minutes, depending on the file size and USB connection speed. The initial reboot afterward takes an additional 3 to 8 minutes. Do not interrupt the phone during either phase. If the Odin progress bar stalls, wait a few minutes before troubleshooting.
Final Thoughts on Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS Firmware
Following this guide ensures a successful installation of the official Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G SM-N986B/DS firmware (the latest version) using Odin. If your phone is now running smoothly, the process worked perfectly.
If you encounter a specific error or a step fails, leave a comment below. Include the exact error message, your current step, and the fixes you have already attempted. I read every comment and will help you resolve the issue.
Sharing this guide helps others resolve their phone issues quickly.
Browse all Samsung firmware downloads for more devices.
Disclaimer: Flashing stock firmware is performed at your own risk. Follow the instructions on this page carefully. I cannot be held responsible for any damage to your device, but I will always try to help if something goes wrong.
