Last Updated: June 2, 2026
Restoring the SM-N985F requires the correct Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware to ensure a safe and successful installation. This page provides all the necessary flash files, USB drivers, and step-by-step instructions to manage FRP bypass, hard resets, and system recovery.
Device: Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F | Chipset: Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) | Flash Tool: Odin
Android: Android 13, One UI 5 | 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 SM-N985F Firmware (Flash File) Drivers, Tools & Guide
The official Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware package includes the exact Odin files needed to restore your phone to working condition. Using Odin is a reliable procedure as long as you load the correct files into the correct slots.
Before starting the installation, sign out of any active Samsung accounts on the device. Skipping this step will trigger Knox security, which results in a KG lock that requires extra time to resolve. Samsung firmware packages use the .tar.md5 format. Once you extract the main ZIP folder, you will find specific files labeled AP_*, BL_*, CP_*, and CSC_* (or HOME_CSC_*). If these files are missing, the package is incorrect for your device.
Your Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware download arrives as a compressed ZIP archive. Extract the contents using WinRAR or 7-Zip. The extracted folder must contain files such as AP_*.tar.md5, BL_*.tar.md5, CP_*.tar.md5, and CSC_*.tar.md5 (or HOME_CSC_*.tar.md5). Missing files indicate an incompatible firmware package.
Installing stock software intentionally erases all user data to resolve deep system problems. This process fixes FRP locks, application crashes, sluggish performance, forgotten screen patterns, devices stuck on the logo, connectivity bugs, battery drain, and soft brick scenarios.
Hard Reset Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F
A hard reset on the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F is performed by holding Volume Up and Power simultaneously while the device is powered off to access the recovery menu. Use the volume rocker to highlight “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” and press the Power button to confirm your selection.
Executing a factory reset wipes all personal data and returns the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F to its original factory state. This action resolves standard software glitches like application freezes, sluggishness, lost passcodes, and continuous bootloops. If the problem remains after the reset, a complete firmware installation via Odin is the next step.
Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F FRP Bypass
The most effective method to bypass FRP on the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F involves using a free Android apps launcher to access settings during the initial setup. Factory resets or fresh flashes often trigger the Google account lock (FRP). You can use our free Android apps launcher to navigate past this prompt quickly. Removing your Google account before flashing prevents this lock from activating.
Why Do We Need Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F Firmware?
Flashing the official Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware resolves critical software issues, bootloops, and update failures. Samsung handsets rely on Odin for installation, regardless of the internal processor. Here are the main reasons to install the stock software:
- Unlock a handset that is disabled or frozen.
- Upgrade the operating system to the newest supported release.
- Eliminate freezing, lag, and continuous startup loops on your SM-N985F.
- Repair failed over-the-air updates and abnormal battery drain.
- Revert to the official Samsung ROM to maintain warranty status.
- Fix a phone that only boots into the recovery environment.
- Clear KG lock or Knox errors caused by a failed or interrupted installation.
Learn more about stock ROMs and why flashing works.
Choosing the Right Firmware Version
Selecting the correct firmware version for your Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F requires matching the exact model number, region code, and binary level. Installing an incompatible file causes severe system errors.
- Identify Your Exact Model Number: Open Settings › About Phone and verify the complete model number (e.g. SM-N985F). The letter at the end specifies the region, U/U1 means USA, W means Canada, N means Korea, and B/F means International. Cross-region flashing causes operational issues.
- Match the CSC (Region): The 3-letter region code within the firmware name must align with your device. Locate your current CSC under Settings › About Phone › Software Information, or read the Service Provider line in Download Mode. Standard codes include XAA (US), BTU (UK), INS (India), and SER (Russia).
- Check the Binary Level: Read the version string on your current software (e.g.
XXU9BZDP, the digit following the letters represents the binary). Downgrading to a lower binary is blocked by Samsung. A device on Binary 9 requires Binary 9 or higher. - Confirm the Build Date: The final 4 characters of the PDA version indicate the build date. The first character represents the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), and the second represents the month (A=Jan through L=Dec).
- Verify in Download Mode: Power down the handset, then press Volume Down + Power to enter Download Mode. This screen displays the exact model, CSC, and software version, use these details to verify your download before proceeding.
Firmware Details for Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F
The official specifications for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware include Android 13, One UI 5, and a file size ranging from 2.1 GB to 6.5 GB. Review the complete details below:
| Firmware Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Model | Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F |
| Firmware Version | N985FXXU4FVH2, V01, XXS9HXA3, XXS8HWK3 |
| File Size | 2.1 GB to 6.5 GB |
| Android Version | Android 13, One UI 5 |
| Platform | Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) |
| Release Date | Released 2020, August 21 |
| Region | SM |
| File Type | .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin) |
Which Firmware Version Should I Download?
Choosing the right firmware version depends on your specific situation, such as whether the phone is stuck on the logo or experiencing FRP. Use the table below to find the correct file for your needs:
| Your Situation | What I Recommend |
|---|---|
| Phone is completely dead or stuck on logo | XXS9HXA3, download this one. It is the latest Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F 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 XXS8HWK3, 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 XXS9HXA3 first, then follow the IMEI repair guide. Do not skip the reflash. |
| XXS9HXA3 failed with a flash error | Try XXS8HWK3 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 | XXS9HXA3, clean state, fresh start. |
To tell which Samsung firmware is newer, look at the last 4 characters of the PDA version string (e.g. S938BXXU9CZDP). The first character is the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), the second is the month (A=Jan, B=Feb… L=Dec, Z=final stable), and the last two are the revision (0-9 then A-Z, where Z is highest). But before comparing dates, always check the binary level: the digit just before the date code (e.g. XXU9CZDP = Binary 9). You cannot downgrade to a lower binary level. If your device is on Binary 9, only flash Binary 9 or higher. Also make sure the 3-letter CSC code in the firmware matches your device region.
Download Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F Firmware
You can download the official Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware directly from the links provided below. The newest release is XXS9HXA3. After the download finishes, verify that the file size aligns with the specifications listed above. A mismatch in file size typically indicates an incomplete download, and flashing a broken file causes further system errors.
| Software Details | Download Link | Members Link |
|---|---|---|
|
File Name: SM-N985F_N985FXXU4FVH2_N985FOWA4FVH2_COM_4file.zip Size: 6.5 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: COMBINATION_FAC_FAQ0_N985FXXU2AUE1_FAC_CL21667863_QB40039282_REV01_user_mid_noship_MULTI_CERT.tar.md5.zip Size: 2.1 GB | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: N980FXXS9HXA3 Size: N/A | Download Link | Download Link2 |
| File Name: N980FXXS8HWK3 Size: N/A | Download Link | Download Link2 |
Only download firmware that is fully compatible with your exact device model. See the firmware selection guide above if you are not sure.
- Your model number is a variant of SM-N985F 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 SM-N985F Firmware
Preparing to flash the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware requires backing up your data, removing accounts, and installing the correct USB drivers. Two common mistakes include leaving a Samsung account signed in (which triggers KG lock) and using a charge-only USB cable that drops the connection during installation. Always use a high-quality 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 SM-N985F
Installing the firmware on the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F is done using the Odin flash tool on a Windows computer. Ensure the “Auto Reboot” and “F. Reset Time” boxes remain checked in Odin for the most stable result. If you need help choosing an Odin version, visit our Odin versions page. Older Samsung models occasionally function better with previous Odin builds.
- Download and Extract:
- Download the correct firmware package from the links above.
- Extract the ZIP to a simple folder path, avoid paths with spaces or special characters, as some flash tools have trouble with them.
- Install the Listed Drivers:
- Confirm all drivers listed above are installed and that your PC has been restarted since installation. Skipping the restart is a common reason drivers do not work correctly.
- 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 flash.
- Connect Your Device:
- Enter Download Mode: Turn off your phone, then hold Volume Down + Power (add Home button on older models) until the warning screen appears. Press Volume Up to confirm and enter Download Mode.
- Connect your phone to your PC via USB. Odin should show “Added..” in the log area, this means your device is detected.
- Start Flashing:
- Click the “Start” button to begin.
- Do not disconnect, move the cable, or touch the device until the process is fully complete. Disconnecting mid-flash is how devices get bricked.
- Wait and Reboot:
- Once flashing finishes successfully, disconnect the device.
- Power on your device. The first boot will take longer than usual, give it up to 8 minutes.
Video Guide for Flashing
What to Expect After Flashing Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F Firmware
After flashing the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware, the first boot will take several minutes as the system initializes. Several normal occurrences happen during this period:
- How to know the flash was successful: Odin displays the word “PASS.” in a green box inside the log window. Seeing this message confirms a proper installation.
- First boot takes 3 to 8 minutes, allow the phone to sit undisturbed. The operating system is configuring core applications, and interrupting this sequence causes bootloops.
- The phone will feel warm during first boot, hardware activity generates heat during the initial setup. The temperature normalizes after a few minutes.
- All your apps are gone, the factory reset removed all third-party applications. Reinstall them via the Play Store. Google One backups will prompt an automatic restoration during the setup wizard.
- Dial *#06# immediately after setup to verify your IMEI status. Complete this check before inserting a SIM card. If the screen reads “unknown” or “null”, follow the IMEI repair guide right away.
- Be careful when re-adding your Google account, failing to remove the account prior to flashing results in an FRP prompt. Input your credentials directly in the setup wizard rather than the settings menu.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data should function immediately. If mobile data fails, navigate to Settings › SIM and Network to manually input your APN details, as the installation sometimes wipes carrier configurations.
- Stuck in a bootloop after first boot? Access recovery mode and execute a factory reset, refer to the hard reset guide above. This clears conflicting temporary files from the previous operating system.
- Samsung Smart Switch: Following the installation of your Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware, Smart Switch might recommend supplementary updates. Allow the application to install them to guarantee your device holds the newest regional security patches.
Missing IMEI or Corrupt Baseband on Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F After Flashing?
A missing IMEI after flashing usually indicates a corrupted EFS partition that requires specific repair tools. The EFS partition houses your IMEI and network credentials. Restoring an IMEI that does not belong to your original device is illegal in most jurisdictions, so only restore the original numbers. Programs like ChimeraTool or BFT can fix this issue. Research your local regulations before attempting a repair.
Video Guide: How to repair IMEI
Common Issues When Flashing Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F
- Odin Shows “FAIL” Instead of “PASS”:
- This error typically stems from a mismatch between the firmware region and your device. Verify your exact model number under Settings › About Phone before loading the files. A single incorrect letter in the model code causes a failure.
- Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F Not Recognized by Odin:
- Install the Samsung USB drivers again. Confirm the device is actually in Download Mode. Test a different USB cable, as Odin requires a stable data connection.
- KG Lock / Knox Triggered After Flashing:
- This security measure activates when a Samsung account remains logged in prior to flashing, or when unofficial software is applied. Log out of all Samsung accounts before starting. Resolving an active KG lock usually requires a professional unlocking service.
- Boot Loop After Flashing:
- Open recovery mode (Volume Up + Power) and choose the factory reset option. This deletes conflicting leftover data from the old operating system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will flashing the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware erase my data?
A: Yes. Installing this software via Odin resets the handset to factory defaults, including the base Android 13, One UI 5 configurations. Every application, photograph, contact, and user account is deleted. Save your files beforehand, as recovery is impossible after the process concludes.
Q2: Is this firmware compatible with other Samsung models?
A: No. This package is designed exclusively for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F utilizing the Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) processor. Even a Galaxy Note20 Ultra with a slightly different suffix might feature entirely different internal hardware. Installing the wrong files causes severe damage. Confirm your model in Settings › About Phone.
Q3: Can I downgrade from XXS9HXA3 to an older firmware version?
A: While possible on certain Exynos variants, downgrading is not advised. Rolling back introduces security vulnerabilities and application instability on Android 13, One UI 5. If XXS9HXA3 presents errors, leave a comment describing the situation, as alternative solutions usually exist.
Q4: What should I do if I encounter an FRP lock after flashing?
A: Download our free Android apps launcher. FRP engages on the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F when a Google account remains active before installation. Removing the account initially prevents the lock entirely.
Q5: Are custom ROM options available for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F?
A: This walkthrough focuses exclusively on official Samsung software. The availability of custom ROMs for the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F relies on open-source kernel support for the Samsung Exynos 990 (S5E9830) chipset. Visit our Custom ROMs page or the XDA Developers forum to find relevant custom development threads.
Q6: My Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F is not detected by Odin. What should I do?
A: Begin with the drivers. Reinstall the Samsung USB drivers, reboot your computer, and attempt the connection again. Move the cable to a USB 2.0 port, as Samsung devices occasionally struggle with USB 3.0. Temporarily disable your antivirus software. Provide the exact error message in the comments below if the problem continues.
Q7: How do I enter recovery mode on my Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F?
A: Turn the device off entirely, then press Volume Up + Power together until the recovery menu loads. Older Samsung units with a physical Home button require Volume Up + Home + Power. The recovery screen displays the build number for your Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F, which helps verify your current software iteration.
Q8: My IMEI shows “unknown” after flashing the Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F. Is my phone permanently damaged?
A: The handset is not permanently broken, despite the alarming message. Follow the IMEI repair guide located in the troubleshooting section. Inspect the EFS partition for corruption first. Refrain from inserting a SIM card until the original IMEI is completely restored.
Q9: How long does it take to flash Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware?
A: The Odin installation requires roughly 3 to 10 minutes, depending on the file size and your USB transfer speed. The initial reboot takes an additional 3 to 8 minutes. Leave the device untouched during both phases. If the Odin progress bar stalls, wait a few extra minutes before assuming the installation failed.
Final Thoughts on Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F Firmware
Following this guide ensures a clean installation of the official Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra SM-N985F firmware (XXS9HXA3) via Odin. Completing these steps carefully will restore full functionality to your handset.
If the results differ from expectations, such as an error message or a step failing to execute, leave a comment below. Include the exact error text, your current step, and the troubleshooting methods you already attempted. I review every comment and will provide assistance.
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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.
