The Archos Alba 8 (Version 3) is an 8-inch, entry-level Android tablet from 2017. This model, often co-branded with UK retailer Alba, is designed for basic media consumption and browsing. It is powered by the MediaTek MT8163 quad-core processor and runs on Android 7.0 Nougat. This guide provides the official stock firmware package to perform a full software restoration on your device.
This is a complete firmware package designed to be installed using the SP Flash Tool. It is the definitive solution for a range of critical software problems, including a bricked or dead tablet, a device stuck on the Archos or Alba boot logo, or persistent software errors and crashes that a factory reset cannot solve.
⚠️ Data Deletion Warning
The flashing process will completely erase all data from your tablet’s internal storage, including:
- Contacts and call logs
- Messages and chat history
- Photos, videos, and files
- Installed apps and settings
Please back up your data before proceeding. This action is irreversible and your information cannot be recovered once erased.
Quick Device Specs
- Device: Archos Alba 8 (V3)
- Release year: 2017
- Chipset: MediaTek MT8163
- Display: 8.0″ IPS LCD, 800 x 1280 pixels
- RAM/Storage: 1GB/16GB
- Battery: 4000 mAh
- Original OS: Android 7.0 (Nougat)
Required Downloads
To flash this firmware, you will need the SP Flash Tool software and the correct MediaTek VCOM USB drivers for your Windows PC. You can find secure links to download these essential utilities in our main guide, which is linked in the how-to section below.
- The firmware package from the table below
- SP Flash Tool
- MediaTek VCOM USB Drivers
Official Stock Firmware (ROM)
| Build Version | Android Version | Type | Download |
|---|---|---|---|
| V3 (2017-12-26) | 7.0 Nougat | Stock ROM (SP Flash Tool) | Download |
How to Flash Stock Firmware
To restore the software on your Archos Alba 8, you will use the SP Flash Tool on a PC. First, ensure the MediaTek VCOM drivers are properly installed. Launch the tool, load the MT8163_Android_scatter.txt file from the extracted firmware folder, and select the “Download Only” mode. Click the “Download” button. Power off your tablet completely, then connect it to your PC with a USB cable to start the flashing process.
For a complete, step-by-step walkthrough, driver downloads, and troubleshooting, please refer to our detailed pillar guide: How to Flash Stock Firmware with SP Flash Tool.
Device-Specific Troubleshooting for Archos Alba 8 V3
- PC Not Detecting the Tablet: This is the most common problem and is always caused by a driver issue. Uninstall any other mobile phone drivers, restart your PC, and do a fresh install of the MediaTek VCOM drivers. The tablet should only be connected after clicking “Download” in the tool.
- SP Flash Tool “PMT changed for the ROM” Error: If you see this error, the partition layout on your tablet is different from the firmware’s. To solve this, change the dropdown option in SP Flash Tool from “Download Only” to “Firmware Upgrade” and try flashing again.
- For Version 3 (V3) ONLY: The Alba 8 tablet may have multiple hardware revisions. This firmware is specifically for the “V3” version. Flashing it on an older or different version could cause issues with the touchscreen or other components.
- Slow Performance on Nougat: With 1GB of RAM, Android 7.0 can become sluggish. A clean flash with this stock ROM is the best way to restore the tablet to its original performance by removing software clutter and junk files.
FAQs
- Q1. My Archos Alba 8 is dead after a failed update. Will this fix it?
- Yes. This full firmware package is designed to overwrite the entire software system, including a corrupted bootloader or system partition, and will unbrick a tablet with software-related issues.
- Q2. How do I know if I have the V3 version?
- Often, the version number is printed on a sticker on the back of the tablet or in the “About tablet” section in the settings menu. If you are unsure, flashing this ROM is the standard procedure for this model, but be aware of the possibility of minor hardware differences between revisions.
- Q3. Will I lose my data by flashing this firmware?
- Yes, the SP Flash Tool process will completely erase the tablet’s internal storage, deleting all your personal data and restoring it to factory settings.
- Q4. What version of Android is this?
- This is the official stock firmware for Android 7.0 Nougat for the Archos Alba 8 V3.
