This page provides the official download link for the BQ Aquaris M5 stock ROM, firmware version 4.5.0, which updates the device to Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow. The BQ Aquaris M5 was a highly competitive mid-range smartphone known for its sharp Full HD display and reliable Snapdragon 615 chipset. If your device is facing issues such as bootloops, frequent app crashes, or software features like NFC not working correctly, reinstalling the official firmware is the most effective fix. This process will unbrick a soft-bricked BQ Aquaris M5 and restore its software to a clean, stable, factory state.
This particular firmware package is designed to be installed via a fastboot script (`flash-all.bat`), which automates the process of flashing all the necessary system partitions. It is a powerful tool for a complete software overhaul, ensuring all system files are replaced with fresh, original ones from BQ.
User Data Advisory for the BQ Aquaris M5
Heads-Up: This Will Erase Everything. The fastboot flashing process requires an unlocked bootloader, which will trigger a factory reset and completely wipe all data from your BQ Aquaris M5’s internal storage. Please ensure you have a complete backup of all photos, contacts, and important files before you proceed. This method is intended for users who understand these risks.
BQ Aquaris M5: Quick Device Specifications
Please confirm these details match your device to ensure compatibility. This firmware is exclusively for the BQ Aquaris M5.
- Device Model:
- BQ Aquaris M5
- Release Date:
- July 2015
- Chipset:
- Qualcomm MSM8939 Snapdragon 615 (28 nm)
- Display:
- 5.0 inches, 1080 x 1920 pixels (FHD)
- Battery:
- 3120 mAh, Non-removable Li-Po
- RAM/Storage:
- 2GB/16GB, 3GB/16GB, 3GB/32GB
- Key Feature:
- NFC Support
Required Downloads for Flashing
You will need the following software and drivers to flash the firmware on your computer.
- Android SDK Platform-Tools (Provides the necessary ADB and Fastboot drivers)
- Qualcomm USB Drivers
- The BQ Aquaris M5 Firmware Package (from the table below)
BQ Aquaris M5 Firmware Download Links
| Filename | Android Version | Size | Download Link/s |
|---|---|---|---|
| BQ_Aquaris_M5_4.5.0_20161117_…6.0.1.zip | 6.0.1 Marshmallow | 1.1GB | Download (MediaFire) |
How to Flash BQ Aquaris M5 Stock Firmware (Fastboot Method)
This firmware is installed using an automated batch script. The process is straightforward but requires careful preparation.
- Preparation: Install the required Qualcomm and ADB/Fastboot drivers on your PC. Download the firmware and extract the `.zip` file into a simple folder path, such as
C:\BQ_M5. - Enable Developer Options: If the phone boots, go to Settings > About phone and tap “Build number” 7 times. Go back to Settings > Developer options and enable “OEM unlocking” and “USB debugging”.
- Boot into Fastboot Mode: Power off the BQ Aquaris M5. Press and hold the Volume Down + Power buttons simultaneously until the fastboot/bootloader interface appears on the screen.
- Unlock Bootloader: Connect your phone to the PC. Open a command window and run the command
fastboot oem unlock-go. This command will wipe your data. After it’s done, reboot the phone back into fastboot mode for the next step. - Execute the Flashing Script: With the phone in fastboot mode and connected to the PC, open the folder where you extracted the firmware. Locate and double-click the
flash-all.batfile. - Wait for Completion: A command prompt will appear and automatically execute a series of flashing commands. Do not disconnect the device during this process. The phone will reboot automatically once the flashing is complete.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Here are some specific issues you might encounter with the BQ Aquaris M5 and how to solve them.
1. NFC Not Working or Unresponsive
Cause: Software glitches, incorrect permissions after a failed update, or corruption in the NFC service files can cause the feature to stop working, even if it’s enabled in settings.
Solution: A full firmware flash using the `flash-all.bat` script is the most reliable fix. It reinstalls the entire software stack, including the low-level drivers and services that control the NFC hardware, resolving any software-based conflicts.
2. Screen Colors Seem Washed Out or Have a Yellow Tint
Cause: The BQ Aquaris M5’s display is known for its “Quantum Color +” technology. A faulty software update or custom ROM can mess with the screen’s color calibration files (KCAL).
Solution: Flashing this official stock ROM restores the original BQ display drivers and calibration profiles. After flashing, you can also check in Settings > Display for any color adjustment or “Adaptive display” options to fine-tune the colors to your liking.
3. Wi-Fi Connection is Unstable or Constantly Dropping
Cause: This is often caused by corrupted network configuration data stored on the device or a bug in the Wi-Fi driver.
Solution: Reinstalling the stock firmware cleanses all old network settings and reinstalls the baseband and Wi-Fi drivers from scratch. This usually resolves persistent connection stability issues that aren’t related to your router.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Will this update my BQ Aquaris M5 to Android 7 (Nougat)?
- No. This firmware package will install or restore Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow. While the BQ Aquaris M5 did receive a Nougat update, you would need to find that specific firmware version if you wish to upgrade.
- What is the main difference between the BQ Aquaris M5 and the M5.5?
- The primary differences are size. The M5 has a 5.0-inch display and a 3120 mAh battery, while the M5.5 has a larger 5.5-inch display and a bigger 3620 mAh battery. Internally, they share the same Snapdragon 615 chipset.
- My phone’s bootloader is locked. Can I still flash this firmware?
- No. The `flash-all.bat` script relies on fastboot commands to write to system partitions. This is only possible after the bootloader has been unlocked using the `fastboot oem unlock-go` command, which is a mandatory first step.
- Is it possible to re-lock the bootloader after flashing?
- Yes. After successfully flashing and booting the stock ROM, you can reboot back into fastboot mode and use the command `fastboot oem lock`. However, this will wipe your data again, and there is little benefit to re-locking it unless you are selling the device.
Conclusion
Restoring your BQ Aquaris M5 to its official Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow software is the best way to fix deep-seated bugs, remove custom modifications, and bring back its original smooth performance. This guide provides the official files and a reliable fastboot script method to safely complete the process. Always remember to back up your data before you begin.
If you found this guide helpful or have any questions, please leave a comment below. We appreciate your feedback!
