Last Updated: June 2, 2026
Restoring your SM-F916N is a simple process when you have the correct Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N firmware. This page covers the flash files, hard reset steps, FRP removal, IMEI repair tools, and USB drivers you will need.
Device: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N | Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ (SM8250-AB) | Flash Tool: Odin
Android: Android 13, One UI 5.1.1 | File Type: .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin)
⚠ Warning: Flashing erases all data. Back up first.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N Firmware (Flash File) Drivers, Tools & Guide
Installing the official Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N firmware requires Odin, the correct USB drivers, and the exact stock ROM files for your specific variant. Using Odin to flash a Samsung phone is a straightforward procedure once you understand the process, and this page contains everything required to do it properly.
One critical step before you begin: remove any signed-in Samsung accounts. Skipping this triggers Knox security, which adds unnecessary complications to the repair by locking the system. The official Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N firmware downloads as a compressed ZIP archive containing .tar.md5 files for AP, BL, CP, and CSC.
Download the ZIP package and extract the contents using WinRAR or 7-Zip. Once extracted, you should see files labeled AP_*.tar.md5, BL_*.tar.md5, CP_*.tar.md5, and CSC_*.tar.md5 (or HOME_CSC_*.tar.md5). If these specific files are missing, you have downloaded an incorrect package.
Keep in mind that installing stock firmware wipes all personal data. This is intentional, as it clears out persistent software issues including FRP lock, application errors, sluggish performance, forgotten screen locks, logo freezing, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth drops, battery drain, and soft brick conditions.
Hard Reset Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N
You can factory reset the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N without a computer by holding the Volume Up and Power buttons together until the recovery menu loads. Use the volume keys to highlight “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” and press the Power button to confirm your selection.
This hard reset deletes all personal files and returns the phone to its factory state. It clears up most software glitches like app crashes, sluggishness, and forgotten passwords. If the phone remains stuck on the logo after completing the reset, a full firmware installation is your next step.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N FRP Bypass
The most effective way to bypass FRP on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N is by using a free Android apps launcher to access settings during the initial setup. A Google account lock often appears after a factory reset or a firmware flash, and our free Android apps launcher provides quick access to bypass this barrier. To prevent this from happening in the future, always remove your Google account before performing any software resets.
Why Do We Need Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N Firmware?
Flashing the official Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N firmware resolves severe software problems like bootloops, system crashes, and failed OTA updates. Samsung devices are flashed using Odin, and applying the official software can fix the following issues:
- Unlock a device that is disabled or locked.
- Upgrade the operating system to the newest supported Android build.
- Clear startup loops, system freezing, and lag on your SM-F916N.
- Repair battery drain and over-the-air update failures.
- Revert to the original stock ROM to maintain warranty validity.
- Fix a phone that only boots into the recovery environment.
- Clear KG lock or Knox errors caused by a previous interrupted flash.
Learn more about stock ROMs and why flashing works.
Choosing the Right Firmware Version
Selecting the correct firmware version requires matching your exact model number, region code, and binary level. Flashing an incompatible file is a serious mistake, so verify the following details before you begin:
- Identify Your Exact Model Number: Navigate to Settings › About Phone and note the complete model number (e.g. SM-F916N). The letter suffix is important, U/U1 = USA, W = Canada, N = Korea, B/F = International/Global. Installing firmware meant for a different variant will cause system errors.
- Match the CSC (Region): The 3-letter region code in the firmware filename must align with your device. Check Settings › About Phone › Software Information for your current CSC, or look at the Service Provider line in Download Mode. Common codes include XAA (US), BTU (UK), INS (India), and SER (Russia).
- Check the Binary Level: Examine the version string in your current firmware (e.g.
XXU9BZDP, the digit following the letters is the binary level). You cannot downgrade to a lower binary level. If your phone operates on Binary 9, you must install Binary 9 or higher. - Confirm the Build Date: The final 4 characters of the PDA version represent 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: Power off the device, then hold Volume Down + Power to enter Download Mode. This screen displays your exact model, CSC, and current firmware version for easy verification.
Firmware Details for Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N
The official firmware specifications for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N include Android 13, One UI 5.1.1, and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ chipset. Review the table below for the complete file details:
| Firmware Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Model | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N |
| Firmware Version | N/A |
| File Size | N/A |
| Android Version | Android 13, One UI 5.1.1 |
| Platform | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ (SM8250-AB) |
| Release Date | Released 2020, September 18 |
| Region | Global, Africa and Asia |
| File Type | .tar.md5 / ZIP (Contains AP, BL, CP, CSC files for Odin) |
Which Firmware Version Should I Download?
You should download the firmware version that matches your specific device condition, such as choosing the latest build for a dead phone or an older build if the newest OTA causes lag. Find your exact scenario in the table below to get 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 Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N 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 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 Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N Firmware
You can download the official Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N firmware directly from the links provided below. The most recent build available is the latest version. Once the download finishes, compare the file size against the specifications table above. A mismatched file size points to a corrupted download, and attempting to flash a broken file will cause more system errors.
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-F916N with a different letter suffix. Check About Phone carefully, one letter difference can cause a failed or broken flash.
- Your chipset differs from Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ (SM8250-AB). 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 Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N Firmware
Preparing to flash the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N firmware requires a Windows PC, a high-quality data cable, and at least 50 percent battery on the phone. Two common mistakes cause problems here: leaving a Samsung account signed in, which triggers KG lock, and using a cheap charge-only cable that drops the connection during the flash. 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 Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N
You can install the firmware on your Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N by loading the AP, BL, CP, and CSC files into Odin and clicking Start. We are using Odin for this process. Keep “Auto Reboot” and “F. Reset Time” checked in Odin to ensure a clean installation. Check our Odin versions page if you need help finding the right tool version.
- 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 Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N Firmware
After flashing the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N firmware, the phone will take several minutes to boot up and will be completely wiped of all personal data. Here is what is completely normal after a successful installation:
- How to know the flash was successful: Odin will display “PASS.” in green text at the top-left of the log area. Seeing this confirms the process finished correctly.
- First boot takes 3 to 8 minutes, do not force-restart the phone. The operating system is configuring itself from scratch, and interrupting this phase can cause a bootloop.
- The phone will feel warm during first boot, this is expected behavior. The temperature will settle after a few minutes once the initial setup finishes.
- All your apps are gone, this is standard. You will need to reinstall them from the Play Store. A Google account backup will offer to restore your applications during the setup wizard.
- Dial *#06# immediately after setup to verify your IMEI. Do this before inserting a SIM card. If the screen displays “unknown” or “null”, follow the IMEI repair guide below immediately.
- Be careful when re-adding your Google account, if you did not remove it before flashing, you might encounter an FRP prompt. Add it fresh during the setup wizard rather than through the Settings menu later.
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile data should function immediately after setup. If mobile data fails to connect, navigate to Settings › SIM and Network and input your APN manually, the installation process occasionally clears carrier APN configurations.
- Stuck in a bootloop after first boot? Enter recovery mode and perform a factory reset from there, see the hard reset guide above. This happens occasionally and does not mean the firmware is bad, it usually points to a conflict with leftover data from the previous system.
- Samsung Smart Switch: After applying your Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N firmware, Samsung Smart Switch might prompt you to install supplementary updates. Allow it to finish, this guarantees your device receives the latest security patches for your region.
Missing IMEI or Corrupt Baseband on Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N After Flashing?
A missing IMEI or corrupt baseband on your Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N usually indicates a damaged EFS partition. This partition houses your IMEI and carrier configurations. Restoring an IMEI that does not belong to the device is illegal in most regions, so only proceed if you are restoring the original number. Tools like ChimeraTool or BFT can assist with this repair. Check your local laws before proceeding.
Video Guide: How to repair IMEI
Common Issues When Flashing Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N
- Odin Shows “FAIL” Instead of “PASS”:
- This typically indicates a mismatch between the firmware region or model and your device. Verify your exact model number in Settings › About Phone before selecting the firmware. Even a single letter difference in the model code matters.
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N Not Recognized by Odin:
- Reinstall the Samsung USB drivers and ensure you are in Download Mode. Try a different USB cable, Odin can be sensitive to cable quality.
- KG Lock / Knox Triggered After Flashing:
- This occurs when a Samsung account remained signed in before flashing, or when unofficial firmware was applied. Always sign out of Samsung accounts before flashing. If KG lock is already active, a professional unlocking tool is generally needed.
- Boot Loop After Flashing:
- Enter recovery mode (Volume Up + Power) and perform a factory reset. This clears any leftover data from the previous firmware that may be causing the conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will flashing the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N firmware erase my data?
A: Yes. Installing this firmware with Odin resets your device completely to its factory state, including Android 13, One UI 5.1.1 default settings. All apps, photos, contacts, and accounts will be deleted. Back up everything you need before you start. There is no way to recover data once the flash is complete.
Q2: Is this firmware compatible with other Samsung models?
A: No. This firmware is built specifically for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N running on the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ (SM8250-AB) chipset. Even the Galaxy Z Fold2 5G with a different letter suffix (for example, a different variant of SM-F916N) can have a completely different chipset inside. Flashing the wrong firmware can leave your phone in a state that is very difficult to recover from. Always check your exact model number in Settings › About Phone.
Q3: Can I downgrade from the latest version to an older firmware version?
A: It is technically possible on some Qualcomm builds, but I do not recommend it. Downgrading can cause security issues and app compatibility problems on Android 13, One UI 5.1.1. If the latest version is causing you trouble, leave a comment below, there is usually a better fix than rolling back.
Q4: What should I do if I encounter an FRP lock after flashing?
A: Use our free Android apps launcher. FRP lock on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N activates when a Google account was still signed in before flashing. This is also why I always recommend signing out of your Google account before flashing, it avoids this issue entirely.
Q5: Are custom ROM options available for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N?
A: This guide covers official Samsung stock firmware only. Custom ROM availability for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N depends on whether the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ (SM8250-AB) chipset has open-source kernel support. Check our Custom ROMs page or the XDA Developers forum for device-specific custom ROM threads.
Q6: My Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N is not detected by Odin. What should I do?
A: Start with the drivers, reinstall the Samsung USB drivers, restart your PC, then try again. Switch to a USB 2.0 port if you are on USB 3.0, Samsung devices are more reliable on USB 2.0 ports. Disable your antivirus temporarily. If none of that works, leave a comment below with the exact error message and I will help you from there.
Q7: How do I enter recovery mode on my Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N?
A: Power the device off completely, then hold Volume Up + Power at the same time until the recovery menu appears. For older Samsung models with a physical Home button, use Volume Up + Home + Power. The recovery menu will display the build number for your Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N which you can use to verify your firmware version before flashing.
Q8: My IMEI shows “unknown” after flashing the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N. Is my phone permanently damaged?
A: No, it looks alarming, but it is fixable. Follow the IMEI repair guide in the troubleshooting section above. For Samsung devices, check for EFS partition corruption first. The important thing: do not insert a SIM card until the IMEI is restored.
Q9: How long does it take to flash Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N firmware?
A: The actual flashing process usually takes between 3 and 10 minutes depending on the firmware size and your USB connection speed. The first boot after flashing takes longer, anywhere from 3 to 8 minutes. Do not interrupt the device during either stage. If the progress bar in Odin appears stuck, give it a few more minutes before assuming something went wrong.
Final Thoughts on Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N Firmware
Following these instructions carefully will restore your phone to full working order using the official Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916N firmware (the latest version) through Odin. If you followed each step accurately, your phone should now operate on a clean system build.
If something did not go as expected, a specific error, or a step that is not working for your setup, leave a comment below with as much detail as you can: the exact error message, which step you are on, and what you have already tried. I read every comment and will help you work through it.
If this guide helped you, consider sharing it, it is the best way to help someone else who is dealing with the same problem.
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.
