BQ Aquaris X5 (Standard Android Edition) Firmware Flash File Download [Stock Rom]

This firmware is for the standard Android version of the BQ Aquaris X5. It’s important to differentiate it from the Cyanogen Edition.

Here you can download the official BQ Aquaris X5 stock ROM (firmware), version 4.5.0. This package is specifically for the standard Android model, not the Cyanogen Edition. If your Aquaris X5 is experiencing software issues like random reboots, application errors, or is stuck in a bootloop, flashing the stock firmware is the most effective way to restore it to its original, stable condition. This process will reinstall the official BQ-tuned Android operating system, removing all software modifications and fixing deep-level system errors.

Using the BQ Aquaris X5 flash file is the definitive method to unbrick a soft-bricked device and return it to factory specifications. The installation is performed by sideloading the update package via ADB in the stock recovery mode, a secure method for applying official updates. Please follow the instructions carefully to ensure a successful and safe restoration of your smartphone.

BQ Aquaris X5: Quick Device Specifications

Verify your device details below to ensure you are downloading the correct firmware for the standard Android model.

Device Name:

BQ Aquaris X5 (Standard Android Edition)

Release Date:

November 2015

Chipset:

Qualcomm MSM8916T Snapdragon 412 (28 nm)

Display:

5.0 inches, 720 x 1280 pixels (HD)

Battery:

2900 mAh, Non-removable Li-Po

RAM/Storage:

2GB/16GB or 3GB/32GB

Original OS:

Android 5.1 (Lollipop), upgradable via official packages

Required Downloads for Flashing

You will need the following tools and drivers to install the firmware package.

• Android SDK Platform-Tools (for ADB and Fastboot)
• Qualcomm USB Drivers
• The BQ Aquaris X5 Android Firmware (from the table below)

BQ Aquaris X5 Firmware Download Links

How to Flash BQ Aquaris X5 Stock Android Firmware

This firmware is an official update package that must be installed via recovery. For a full guide on this method, please refer to our pillar article.

1. Enable Developer Options: On your Aquaris X5, navigate to Settings > About phone, and tap on the “Build number” seven times to unlock Developer options.
2. Enable OEM Unlocking: Go to Settings > Developer options and toggle on “OEM unlocking” and “USB debugging”.
3. Boot into Recovery Mode: Power off your device completely. Then, press and hold the Volume Up + Power buttons together until the BQ logo appears and the phone boots into the stock recovery menu.
4. Select ADB Update: Use the volume keys to navigate to “Apply update from ADB” and select it with the Power button.
5. Sideload the Firmware: Connect your phone to your computer. In the command prompt window on your PC, type the command: adb sideload BQ_Aquaris_X5_4.5.0_20161117_0934.zip (ensure the filename is exact). The flashing process will begin.
6. Reboot System: Once the installation is complete, select “Reboot system now” from the recovery menu.

For a more detailed, step-by-step walkthrough, please read our comprehensive guide: How to Manually Install Official OTA Updates via ADB Sideload.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Here are some common problems and solutions for the standard BQ Aquaris X5.

1. Device Not Detected in ADB Sideload Mode

Cause: This is almost always a driver issue. Windows may fail to recognize the device correctly when it switches from normal mode to recovery/sideload mode.

Solution: Open Device Manager on your PC before connecting the phone. Connect the phone and put it in sideload mode. You will likely see a new device appear with a yellow exclamation mark. Right-click it, select “Update driver,” choose “Browse my computer for drivers,” and point it to the Qualcomm drivers you downloaded. This should force the correct driver installation.

2. “Status 7” Error in Recovery During Installation

Cause: A “Status 7” error typically means the firmware package is not compatible with the device’s current software build or the firmware file is corrupt. It’s a safety check to prevent you from flashing the wrong software.

Solution: First, re-download the firmware file to rule out a corrupted download. If it still fails, it’s possible your device is on a much older or different regional firmware. You may need to find an earlier firmware version to flash first before upgrading to this one.

3. Poor Battery Life After Update

Cause: After a major software installation, the system’s battery calibration can be inaccurate, and leftover cache files from the previous OS can cause conflicts and drain the battery.

Solution: After successfully flashing the new firmware, boot back into recovery mode (Volume Up + Power) and perform a “Wipe cache partition”. This does not delete your data but clears out temporary system files. Afterwards, use the phone normally, allowing it to fully discharge and then recharge to 100% without interruption for 2-3 cycles to recalibrate the battery stats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this the same firmware as the Cyanogen OS version?

No, this is the official stock Android firmware developed by BQ. It has a different user interface and feature set compared to the Cyanogen Edition. Do not attempt to flash this on a Cyanogen model, or vice-versa.

Will flashing this ROM lock my bootloader?

Installing official firmware does not typically re-lock the bootloader if you have already unlocked it. However, the BQ Aquaris X5 will remain in an “unlocked” state, which is perfectly fine for normal operation.

Can I use this file to fix a phone that won’t turn on (hard brick)?

No. This ADB sideload package is for phones that can still boot into recovery mode (a soft brick). A hard-bricked Qualcomm device that is not detected by the computer requires a different, more advanced flashing method using EDL mode (Emergency Download Mode) and a specific type of firmware, often called a “firehose” file.

Does this firmware for the BQ Aquaris X5 include Google Apps?

Yes. As this is the official stock Android ROM from the manufacturer, all standard Google services, including the Google Play Store, Gmail, and Maps, are pre-installed and will work perfectly after flashing.

Conclusion

Restoring the official Android firmware is the best way to return your BQ Aquaris X5 to its intended state. This package will resolve software glitches, remove viruses, and fix performance issues, giving your device a fresh start. By carefully following the flashing guide, you can restore your phone’s stability and enjoy the clean, manufacturer-designed Android experience.

If you found this guide useful or if you run into any trouble, please share your experience in the comments section below. Bookmark our site for more firmware and Android tutorials!