This comprehensive guide provides the official download links for all available stock ROM versions for the Cubot J8. The Cubot J8 was a budget-friendly smartphone launched in July 2020, notable for its compact 5.5-inch waterdrop screen design, 13MP AI triple camera setup, face unlock functionality, and removable 3100mAh battery. If your device is stuck in a bootloop, experiencing software glitches like face unlock not working, slow performance due to the MediaTek MT6580 chipset, or has been soft-bricked, flashing the stock firmware is the ultimate solution.
This package contains the original Android 10 software for the MediaTek MT6580 chipset. Reinstalling the firmware via the SP Flash Tool will perform a complete wipe, resolving deep-seated software errors and performance issues. It is the most effective method to unbrick a Cubot J8 and restore it to its original, factory state. We have listed all available firmware versions below; please read the recommendations in the table for guidance on which to choose.
User Data Advisory for the Cubot J8
Critical Pre-Flash Warning: This flashing procedure will permanently erase all data on your Cubot J8. All your photos, apps, and personal files will be lost. A complete backup to a computer or cloud service is essential before proceeding. Using incorrect options in the flash tool can also damage your phone’s IMEI number, so follow the instructions precisely.
Cubot J8: Quick Device Specifications
Please confirm these details match your phone to ensure you are using the correct firmware file.
- Device Name/Model:
- Cubot J8
- Release Date:
- July 2020
- Chipset:
- MediaTek MT6580 (28nm)
- Display:
- 5.5 inches, 442 x 960 pixels, IPS LCD with waterdrop notch
- Battery:
- 3100 mAh, Removable Li-Ion
- RAM/Storage:
- 2GB RAM / 16GB Internal Storage
- Key Features:
- 13MP AI Triple Camera, 8MP Front Camera, Face Unlock, Removable Battery
Required Downloads for Flashing
You will need the following tools and drivers to flash your phone successfully.
- SP Flash Tool (Latest Version)
- MediaTek VCOM USB Drivers
- A Cubot J8 Firmware Package (choose a version from the table below)
Cubot J8 Firmware Download Links
| Filename / Version (Build Date) | Android Version | Size | Download Link/s |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cubot_J8_V08 (Apr 2021, EEA) | 10 | 1.25GB | Download (Google Drive) |
| Cubot_J8_V07 (Mar 2021, EEA) | 10 | 1.25GB | Download (Google Drive) |
| Cubot_J8_V04 (Aug 2020, EEA) | 10 | 1.25GB | Download (Google Drive) |
How to Flash Cubot J8 Firmware
This is a summary of the flashing process using SP Flash Tool. For a more comprehensive guide with screenshots, please visit our detailed pillar article.
- Preparation: Download your chosen firmware version, the SP Flash Tool, and MTK VCOM drivers. Extract all zip files into a single, easy-to-access folder.
- Driver Installation: Install the MediaTek VCOM drivers. You may need to disable driver signature enforcement on modern Windows versions.
- Load Firmware: Run
flash_tool.exe. Click the “Scatter-loading File” button and select theMT6580_Android_scatter.txtfile from the extracted firmware folder. - Begin Flashing: Set the dropdown box to “Download Only” to protect your phone’s IMEI. Click the large green “Download” button to put the tool in standby.
- Connect the Phone: Power off your Cubot J8 completely. Press and hold both Volume Up + Volume Down keys simultaneously. While holding the keys, connect the phone to your PC with a USB cable. Release the keys once the flashing begins. A green circle will appear when the process is complete.
For in-depth instructions and error solutions for the SP Flash Tool, please visit our complete guide: How to Flash Firmware on MediaTek (MTK) Smartphones.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Based on extensive user reports from tech forums including XDA Developers, Nairaland (Nigerian tech community), and various Android communities, here are specific problems with the Cubot J8 and their solutions.
1. Face Unlock Not Working or Frequently Failing
Cause: This is a widely reported issue with the Cubot J8’s face unlock system. The front 8MP camera may have software-related recognition problems, especially in different lighting conditions or after Android 10 updates.
Solution: First, clean the front camera lens and ensure adequate lighting. Go to Settings > Security > Face Unlock and disable the feature, restart your phone, then re-enable and re-register your face. If problems persist, flash the latest firmware version (V08) which includes improved face recognition algorithms.
2. Slow Performance and Apps Opening Slowly
Cause: The MediaTek MT6580 chipset with only 2GB RAM struggles with Android 10’s memory requirements. Users on international forums noted that this budget processor often shows 100% CPU usage under moderate loads.
Solution: Keep at least 40% of internal storage free by uninstalling unused apps and clearing cache regularly. Use lite versions of popular apps from Google Play Store. If performance issues persist, flashing the latest firmware (V08) can help optimize system performance.
3. Phone Stuck in Bootloop or Won’t Turn On
Cause: Software corruption, failed updates, or malware can cause bootloop issues. The MediaTek MT6580 chipset is particularly susceptible to bootloops after failed rooting attempts.
Solution: Try hard reset first by holding Volume Up + Power button simultaneously. If that fails, use SP Flash Tool to flash complete stock firmware in “Download Only” mode. This will restore the original bootloader and system files.
4. Apps Crashing or Not Downloading from Play Store
Cause: Limited RAM (2GB) and storage (16GB) cause compatibility issues with newer apps. The Android 10 system on MT6580 hardware creates resource conflicts.
Solution: Clear Google Play Store cache and data. Turn Airplane mode on/off to refresh network connection. Restart the device and try downloading again. If apps continue crashing, they may not be compatible with the MT6580 chipset’s limited performance.
5. Device Not Detected in SP Flash Tool (Preloader Mode Issues)
Cause: This is a common problem with MT6580 devices where the preloader port appears briefly then disconnects. Driver issues or incorrect button combinations can cause this.
Solution: Install proper MediaTek VCOM drivers and try different button combinations. Hold Volume Up + Volume Down together before connecting USB. If the device still isn’t detected, try removing the battery (if possible) or use mtkclient tools to force BROM mode.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What does “EEA” mean in the firmware filename?
- EEA stands for European Economic Area. These firmware versions are specifically designed for European markets and include region-specific network bands and regulatory compliance. Using the correct regional firmware ensures optimal cellular connectivity and feature compatibility.
- My phone is bricked and won’t turn on. Can SP Flash Tool still fix it?
- Yes, in most cases. SP Flash Tool can revive “hard-bricked” MediaTek MT6580 devices. As long as your computer can detect the MTK Preloader port (even briefly), the tool can force firmware installation and restore functionality.
- Why is my Cubot J8 so slow compared to other Android 10 phones?
- The MediaTek MT6580 is an entry-level chipset with limited processing power and only 2GB RAM. Android 10 requires significant resources, which can overwhelm this budget hardware. The Mali-400 GPU is also outdated for modern Android versions.
- Can I upgrade my Cubot J8 to Android 11 or newer?
- No. The MediaTek MT6580 chipset and 2GB RAM configuration cannot support Android versions newer than Android 10. All available firmware versions are Android 10-based. The hardware limitations prevent any official or stable custom ROM upgrades.
- What is the correct button combination for flashing mode?
- Hold both Volume Up + Volume Down keys together while connecting the USB cable to enter download/preloader mode. Some users report better success by holding these buttons before connecting the device to the computer.
Conclusion
Restoring the official stock firmware on your Cubot J8 is the most effective way to solve major software issues, especially the commonly reported face unlock problems and performance slowdowns with the MediaTek MT6580 chipset. This guide provides all available EEA firmware files and a reliable flashing method using SP Flash Tool to restore your budget Android 10 device to optimal working condition.
Remember to choose the latest firmware version (V08) for the best performance and bug fixes. The removable 3100mAh battery makes this device easier to troubleshoot compared to modern phones with sealed batteries.
If this guide helped you resolve your Cubot J8 issues, please share your experience in the comments, especially which firmware version and troubleshooting steps worked for your specific problem. Your feedback helps our community of budget smartphone users dealing with similar MediaTek MT6580 device challenges!
