Last Updated: June 2, 2026
Restoring the software on your foldable phone is a straightforward process when you use the official Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware. You will find every necessary file and step on this page, including hard reset instructions, FRP removal, flash files, IMEI repair tools, and USB drivers.
Device: Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W | Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ 5G (SM8250-AB) | Flash Tool: Odin
Android: Android 10, upgradable to 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-F916W Firmware (Flash File) Drivers, Tools & Guide
Installing the official software on your foldable phone requires the correct Odin version and the right Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware files. The Snapdragon 865+ processor inside this device is a highly capable 7nm+ chip, which makes the flashing process very stable when paired with the proper tools.
Before you begin, make sure to sign out of any active Samsung accounts. Skipping this step will trigger Knox security, leaving you with a KG lock that takes much longer to bypass. When you extract the firmware package, you should see files labeled AP_*, BL_*, CP_*, and CSC_* (or HOME_CSC_*). If those files are missing, you have downloaded the wrong package.
Your Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware arrives as a compressed ZIP archive. Extract it using WinRAR or 7-Zip. Once extracted, verify that you have files like AP_*.tar.md5, BL_*.tar.md5, CP_*.tar.md5, and CSC_*.tar.md5 (or HOME_CSC_*.tar.md5). Missing these files means the package is not meant for your device.
Remember that installing stock firmware will completely wipe your phone. This factory reset resolves countless software issues, including FRP locks, application crashes, severe lag, forgotten screen locks, bootloops, connectivity bugs, and soft brick conditions.
Hard Reset Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W
You can factory reset the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W without a computer by powering the device off and holding Volume Up + Power until the recovery menu appears. Navigate to “Wipe Data/Factory Reset” using the volume keys and confirm with the Power button.
A hard reset wipes the internal storage and returns the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W to its original factory state. This procedure resolves common glitches like sluggish performance, system freezes, and forgotten security patterns. If the phone remains stuck after the reset, flashing the full Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware with Odin is the next step.
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W FRP Bypass
The most effective way to bypass FRP on the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W is to use a free Android apps launcher that grants access to settings during the initial setup. Factory resetting or flashing your phone often triggers the Google account lock (FRP).
You can use our free Android apps launcher to get past this restriction quickly. Removing your Google account before flashing is always the best practice to prevent this lock entirely.
Why Do We Need Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W Firmware?
Flashing the official Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware resolves severe software problems, updates the operating system, and restores the stock ROM. Samsung phones rely on Odin for flashing, regardless of the internal processor. Here are the main reasons to install the official software:
- Unlock a disabled or frozen phone.
- Upgrade to the newest Android version supported by the hardware.
- Eliminate system freezing, lag, and continuous bootloops on your SM-F916W.
- Fix battery drain and failed OTA updates.
- Restore 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 interrupted or incorrect flashes.
Learn more about stock ROMs and why flashing works.
Choosing the Right Firmware Version
You must verify your exact model number, region CSC, and binary level before downloading the correct Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware. Flashing an incompatible file is a critical error that is difficult to fix. Follow these steps to confirm your selection:
- Identify Your Exact Model Number: Go to Settings › About Phone and note your full model number (e.g. SM-F916W). The letter suffix matters, U/U1 = USA, W = Canada, N = Korea, B/F = International/Global. Flashing firmware built for a different variant can cause issues.
- Match the CSC (Region): The 3-letter region code in the firmware filename must match your device. Check Settings › About Phone › Software Information for your current CSC, or look at the Service Provider line in Download Mode. Common codes: XAA (US), BTU (UK), INS (India), SER (Russia).
- Check the Binary Level: Look at the version string in your current firmware (e.g.
XXU9BZDP, the number after the letters is the binary level). You cannot downgrade to a lower binary level. If your device is on Binary 9, only flash Binary 9 or higher firmware. - Confirm the Build Date: The last 4 characters of the PDA version encode the build date, first character is the year (A=2024, B=2025, C=2026), second is the month (A=Jan through L=Dec).
- Verify in Download Mode: Power off, hold Volume Down + Power to enter Download Mode. This screen shows your exact model, CSC, and current firmware version, use this to confirm before flashing.
Firmware Details for Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W
Here is a complete overview of the official Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware specifications:
| Firmware Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Device Model | Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W |
| Firmware Version | N/A |
| File Size | N/A |
| Android Version | Android 10, upgradable to Android 13, One UI 5.1.1 |
| Platform | Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ 5G (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 issue, such as choosing the latest build for a dead phone or an older build for OTA bug avoidance. Find your situation in the table below and go straight to the right 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-F916W 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-F916W Firmware
You can download the official stock Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware directly from the section below. The most recent release available is the latest version. After downloading, double-check the file size against the specifications table. A mismatched file size indicates a corrupted download, which will cause errors during the flashing process.
Ensure the file is fully compatible with your exact model. See the firmware selection guide above if you are not sure.
- Your model number is a variant of SM-F916W 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+ 5G (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-F916W Firmware
Before installing the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware, you must back up your data, remove all accounts, and install the correct USB drivers. Two issues frequently cause headaches with Samsung flashes: forgetting to sign out of Samsung accounts (which triggers KG lock) and using a low-quality USB cable that disconnects mid-flash. Always use an original 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-F916W
You can install the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware by using the Odin flash tool to load the AP, BL, CP, and CSC files into the correct slots. We will use Odin for this guide. Make sure the “Auto Reboot” and “F. Reset Time” boxes are checked for the cleanest result. If you need help selecting an Odin version, visit our Odin versions page.
- 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-F916W Firmware
After a successful Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware flash, Odin will display a green PASS message and your phone will take 3 to 8 minutes to boot up. Many users assume the flash failed because the first boot takes longer than usual. Here is exactly what to expect:
- How to confirm a successful flash: Look for the “PASS.” message in green text inside the Odin log. This confirms the process finished correctly.
- Initial boot requires patience: The first startup takes up to 8 minutes. The system is configuring the Android environment. Do not force a restart.
- Device temperature: The phone might feel warm as the processor works to set up the apps. This cools down shortly after.
- Missing applications: A clean flash removes all third-party apps. You must reinstall them from the Play Store.
- Verify your IMEI: Dial *#06# right after setup to ensure your IMEI is intact. If it shows “null”, consult the IMEI repair guide.
- Google account setup: If you forgot to remove your Google account, you might face an FRP prompt. Enter your credentials during the initial setup wizard.
- Network connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth should function normally. If mobile data fails, manually input your carrier APN in the SIM settings.
- Handling bootloops: If the phone loops after the initial setup, perform a factory reset via recovery mode. See the hard reset guide above.
- Samsung Smart Switch updates: After flashing your Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware, Smart Switch might prompt you to install region-specific security patches. Allow this to finish to ensure your device has the latest protections.
Missing IMEI or Corrupt Baseband on Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W After Flashing?
A missing IMEI after flashing usually indicates a corrupted EFS partition, which requires specific repair tools to restore. The EFS partition holds your IMEI and baseband data. Restoring an IMEI that does not belong to your phone is illegal, so only restore your original numbers.
Programs like ChimeraTool or BFT can fix this. Check your local regulations first.
Video Guide: How to repair IMEI
Common Issues When Flashing Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W
Common issues when flashing include Odin failing to recognize the device, KG lock triggering, or the phone entering a boot loop. Here are the most frequent problems and their solutions:
- Odin Displays “FAIL” Instead of “PASS”:
- This usually means the firmware region does not match the 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-F916W Not Recognized by Odin:
- Reinstall the Samsung USB drivers and confirm the phone is in Download Mode. Switching to a different, high-quality USB cable often solves connection drops.
- KG Lock / Knox Triggered After Flashing:
- This occurs when a Samsung account remains active during the flash, or when unofficial software is used. Professional tools are typically required to remove an active KG lock.
- Boot Loop After Flashing:
- Boot into recovery mode (Volume Up + Power) and perform a factory reset. This clears any conflicting data left behind from the previous installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Will flashing the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware erase my data?
A: Yes, installing this software completely wipes the internal storage. It returns the phone to factory settings, removing all media, contacts, and applications. Create a full backup before starting, as data recovery is impossible after the flash completes.
Q2: Is this firmware compatible with other Samsung models?
A: No, this package is built exclusively for the SM-F916W hardware utilizing the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ 5G (SM8250-AB) processor. Installing it on a different variant can severely damage the device. Always check your exact model number in Settings › About Phone.
Q3: Can I downgrade from the latest version to an older firmware version?
A: While technically possible on some Qualcomm devices, rolling back the software is not recommended. It creates security vulnerabilities and application instability. Leave a comment below if the newest build is causing trouble, and we can find a better solution.
Q4: What should I do if I encounter an FRP lock after flashing?
A: Use our free Android apps launcher. FRP activates when a Google account is left signed in prior to flashing. Removing your accounts beforehand prevents this lock entirely.
Q5: Are custom ROM options available for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W?
A: This guide focuses entirely on official stock software. Custom ROM development for the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W depends on open-source kernel availability for the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865+ 5G (SM8250-AB). Visit our Custom ROMs page or the XDA Developers forum for community-built options.
Q6: My Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W is not detected by Odin. What should I do?
A: Reinstall the Samsung USB drivers and restart your computer. Try connecting to a USB 2.0 port instead of USB 3.0, and temporarily disable your antivirus software. If Odin still does not recognize the phone, leave a comment with the exact error message.
Q7: How do I enter recovery mode on my Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W?
A: Turn the phone off completely, then press and hold Volume Up + Power until the recovery screen appears. Older Samsung models require holding Volume Up + Home + Power. The recovery menu displays your current build number, which helps verify your software version.
Q8: My IMEI shows “unknown” after flashing the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W. Is my phone permanently damaged?
A: The phone is not permanently damaged. This simply means the EFS partition needs repair. Follow the IMEI repair guide in the troubleshooting section. Do not insert a SIM card until the original IMEI is restored.
Q9: How long does it take to flash Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware?
A: The Odin flashing procedure typically requires 3 to 10 minutes based on the file size and connection speed. The initial device boot takes an additional 3 to 8 minutes. Never disconnect the cable while the progress bar is moving.
Final Thoughts on Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W Firmware
Following this guide will safely restore your device using the official Samsung Galaxy Z Fold2 5G SM-F916W firmware. If you followed the instructions carefully, your phone should now be running smoothly on a fresh build.
If you encountered an error or a specific step failed, leave a detailed comment below. Include the exact error message and the step you were on. I read every comment and will assist you.
If this article was helpful, please share it to assist others facing similar software issues.
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.
