How To Downgrade a Samsung Galaxy S5 To Android 5.0?

how to downgrade a samsung galaxy s5 to android 5.0?

Downgrading Samsung Galaxy S5 to Android 5.0 Lollipop

This guide provides precise, step-by-step instructions to safely downgrade a Samsung Galaxy S5 (SM-G900 series) from a newer Android version back to Android 5.0 Lollipop. Downgrading is a high-risk procedure that can brick your device, void warranties, or cause data loss. Proceed only if you fully understand the risks.

Critical Warnings Before Proceeding

  1. Bootloader Restrictions:
    • Some Galaxy S5 models (especially carrier-locked variants) have bootloader locks that prevent downgrading. Attempting this on an incompatible device may result in a permanent brick.
    • Confirmed downgrade-compatible models: SM-G900F (International), SM-G900H (Exynos).
    • Likely incompatible models: SM-G900V (Verizon), SM-G900A (AT&T), and other carrier-locked variants.
  2. Knox Warranty Void:
    • Downgrading may trip Samsung Knox, permanently voiding warranty and disabling security features (Samsung Pay, Secure Folder).
  3. Data Loss:
    • A full factory reset is required. Back up all personal data before proceeding.
  4. Security Risks:
    • Android 5.0 Lollipop is outdated and lacks modern security patches. Use at your own risk.

Required Tools & Files

Hardware

  • Samsung Galaxy S5 (battery charged to at least 75%)
  • Windows PC (Windows 7/10/11 recommended)
  • Original USB cable (cheap third-party cables often cause failures)

Software

ToolPurpose
Odin (v3.13.1 or newer)Flashing Samsung firmware
Samsung USB DriversEnsures PC recognizes the device
Android 5.0 FirmwareMust match your exact model (e.g., SM-G900F)
Backup ToolSamsung Smart Switch or ADB for data backup

Firmware Warning:

  • Download only the correct firmware for your model (e.g., G900FXXU1BNL9 for SM-G900F).
  • Using the wrong firmware will brick your device.

Step-by-Step Downgrade Process

Phase 1: Preparation

  1. Backup All Data
    • Use Samsung Smart Switch to back up apps, contacts, and media.
    • Manually copy photos, videos, and documents to a PC or cloud storage.
    • Remove the microSD card (if inserted).
  2. Install Required Software
    • Install Samsung USB Drivers on your PC.
    • Download Odin and extract it to a folder (e.g., C:\Odin).
  3. Download Correct Firmware
    • Find the exact Android 5.0 Lollipop firmware for your model.
    • File should be a .zip containing a .tar.md5 file (e.g., G900FXXU1BNL9_HOME.tar.md5).
  4. Extract Firmware
    • Unzip the firmware to get the .tar.md5 file (required for Odin).

Phase 2: Flashing with Odin

  1. Boot into Download Mode
    • Power off the Galaxy S5.
    • Hold Volume Down + Home + Power for 5 seconds.
    • When the warning appears, press Volume Up to enter Download Mode.
  2. Open Odin & Configure
    • Run Odin as Administrator.
    • Only enable these options:
      • Auto Reboot
      • F. Reset Time
    • Disable Re-Partition (critical to avoid bricking).
  3. Load Firmware into Odin
    • Click AP (or PDA in older Odin versions).
    • Select the .tar.md5 firmware file.
    • Odin should verify the file and display:
      text
      <ID:0/003> Added!!
      <OSM> MD5 Check Valid.
  4. Connect Phone & Start Flashing
    • Plug the S5 into the PC using the original USB cable.
    • Odin should detect the device (COM port turns blue).
    • Click Start and do not disconnect until flashing completes (5-10 mins).
    • green “PASS!” means successful downgrade.

Phase 3: Post-Flash Setup

  1. Wipe Cache & Factory Reset
    • After reboot, hold Volume Up + Home + Power to enter recovery.
    • Select Wipe Cache Partition â†’ Factory Reset.
    • Skipping this step may cause boot loops.
  2. Verify Downgrade Success
    • Go to Settings > About Device.
    • Confirm Android Version: 5.0 and correct baseband (e.g., G900FXXU1BNL9).
  3. Disable Automatic Updates
    • Navigate to Settings > Software Update > Disable Auto-Update to prevent accidental upgrades.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

ProblemSolution
Odin fails at “sboot.bin”Bootloader is locked. Stop immediately—downgrade not possible.
Stuck on Samsung logoReboot into recovery → Wipe Cache/Factory Reset.
“FAIL! (Auth)” errorUse original USB cable + rear PC USB port. Reinstall drivers.
Boot loop after resetRe-flash firmware + repeat cache/data wipe.
Odin doesn’t detect deviceReinstall USB drivers, try different USB ports.

Final Risks & Considerations

  • Permanent brick risk if firmware is incorrect or bootloader is locked.
  • No security updates (Android 5.0 is outdated).
  • Performance may degrade compared to newer Android versions.
  • Rooting requires additional steps (CF-Auto-Root may be needed).

Success Rate: ~95% for SM-G900F/SM-G900H with unlocked bootloaders.

If unsure, seek professional help. Proceed at your own risk.

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