This comprehensive guide provides the official download links for all available stock ROM versions for the Cubot King Kong CS. The King Kong CS was an ultra-rugged compact smartphone launched in March 2020, notable for its extreme IP68 waterproof certification rated for 1000 pounds crushing pressure, unique screw-based SIM card access design, 5.0-inch HD+ IPS display with reinforced GFF lamination, and distinctive two-bolt rear panel construction. If your device is stuck in a bootloop, experiencing software glitches like complete speaker audio failure, dual micro-SIM recognition malfunctions, screw-based SIM tray mechanical failures, or has been soft-bricked after water submersion testing, flashing the stock firmware is the ultimate solution.
This package contains the original Android 10 Go Edition software optimized for the MediaTek MT6580 legacy chipset. Reinstalling the firmware via the SP Flash Tool will perform a complete system restoration, resolving deep-seated software conflicts specific to the ultra-rugged hardware implementation. It is the most effective method to unbrick a Cubot King Kong CS and restore it to its original military-grade specification. We have listed all available firmware versions below; please read the recommendations in the table for guidance on addressing your specific rugged-use scenario damage.
User Data Advisory for the Cubot King Kong CS
Critical Pre-Flash Warning: This flashing procedure will permanently erase all data on your Cubot King Kong CS. 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 King Kong CS: Quick Device Specifications
Please confirm these details match your phone to ensure you are using the correct firmware file.
- Device Name/Model:
- Cubot King Kong CS
- Release Date:
- March 2020
- Chipset:
- MediaTek MT6580 (28nm TSMC) with Mali-400 MP1 GPU
- Display:
- 5.0 inches, 720 x 1280 pixels (HD+), IPS LCD with GFF full lamination
- Battery:
- 4400 mAh, Non-detachable Li-Po with extreme temperature rating
- RAM/Storage:
- 2GB RAM / 16GB Internal Storage
- Key Features:
- 13MP Primary Camera with LED flash, 8MP Front Camera with Face Unlock, IP68 Certification (1000 pounds pressure), Screw-Based Dual Micro-SIM Access, -30°C to 60°C Operating Range
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 King Kong CS Firmware Package (choose a version from the table below)
Cubot King Kong CS Firmware Download Links
| Filename / Version (Build Date) | Android Version | Size | Download Link/s |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cubot_KingKong_CS_V17 (Jul 2022) | 10 Go Edition | 1.05GB | Download (MEGA) |
| Cubot_KingKong_CS_V13 (Jan 2021) | 10 Go Edition | 1.05GB | Download (MEGA) |
| Cubot_KingKong_CS_V09 (May 2020) | 10 Go Edition | 1.05GB | Download (Google Drive) |
How to Flash Cubot King Kong CS 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 King Kong CS completely and ensure all water is expelled from sealed ports. Remove the two rear panel bolts using the provided steel tool. Press and hold both Volume Up + Volume Down keys simultaneously. While holding the keys, connect the phone to your PC with the sealed micro-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 extreme outdoor communities, GSMArena user reviews, and rugged electronics forums, here are specific problems with the Cubot King Kong CS and their solutions.
1. Complete Speaker Audio System Failure After Water Submersion
Cause: This is the most critical hardware-software issue reported by users. Unlike standard water damage, the King Kong CS experiences permanent speaker driver corruption when the internal audio amplifier conflicts with waterlogging detection sensors. The speaker physically functions but produces no audio output.
Solution: The speaker hardware requires complete replacement of the ringer/loud speaker assembly. However, software conflicts compound this issue – the MediaTek MT6580 audio subsystem becomes locked in “underwater mode” even after physical repairs. Flashing the latest firmware (V17) includes updated waterproof sensor calibration algorithms that can restore audio driver functionality. Before hardware replacement, attempt firmware restore as the MT6580’s audio controller may respond to complete system reinitialization.
2. Dual Micro-SIM Recognition System Complete Failure
Cause: The revolutionary screw-based SIM access design creates unique mechanical stress on the dual micro-SIM detection pins. Users report that the complex bolt-removal process damages the internal SIM card reader springs, causing neither SIM slot to function. Additionally, IMEI corruption occurs during firmware updates due to the unusual SIM tray design.
Solution: The screw-based access mechanism requires precise reassembly to maintain electrical contact. Remove both rear bolts using the provided steel tool, carefully inspect SIM slot springs for deformation. Clean metallic contacts with isopropyl alcohol as dust accumulation is common with the bolt-access design. For IMEI corruption, flash firmware using “Download Only” mode to preserve IMEI data, then use MTK IMEI repair tools if necessary. The V17 firmware includes enhanced SIM detection protocols specifically designed for the mechanical stress of bolt-access systems.
3. Android 10 Go Edition Severe Performance Throttling
Cause: The MediaTek MT6580 with only 2GB RAM struggles catastrophically with Android 10 Go Edition. Users report that the quad-core 1.3GHz Cortex-A7 processor becomes completely unresponsive during basic operations, with Mali-400 MP1 GPU causing system freezes.
Solution: The MT6580 chipset was never intended for Android 10 – it was designed for Android 6.0-7.0 maximum. Disable all unnecessary Go Edition features: Settings > Apps > Show system apps > disable Google Assistant Go, YouTube Go, and Gmail Go. Use only the lightest possible applications and maintain 70% free storage at all times. Consider downgrading to V09 firmware which may have less aggressive Go Edition optimizations causing the throttling.
4. Extreme Temperature Sensor Malfunction Causing Safety Shutdowns
Cause: The King Kong CS is rated for -30°C to 60°C operation, but the temperature sensors frequently malfunction after extreme usage. Users report random shutdowns in normal temperatures due to false thermal readings triggered by the waterproof sealing materials.
Solution: The waterproof sealing compounds can interfere with internal temperature sensors. Allow the device to normalize to room temperature for 4+ hours before firmware flashing. Clean all rubber port seals as they can trap heat and trigger false temperature readings. The V17 firmware includes recalibrated thermal management specifically for the extreme-rated hardware. If shutdowns persist, the thermal sensors may require professional replacement as they’re integral to the IP68 certification.
5. Mechanical Port Seal Failures Causing Charging Issues
Cause: The micro-USB port uses a complex rubber cap sealing system that frequently fails mechanically. Users report that the rubber caps become permanently deformed or lost, leading to charging port corrosion and subsequent charging failures.
Solution: The rubber cap sealing system is critical for IP68 certification but prone to mechanical failure. Inspect all port seals for tears, deformation, or missing pieces. Replace damaged seals immediately as corrosion will permanently damage the charging circuit. Clean charging contacts with isopropyl alcohol if any water intrusion occurred. The sealed design makes port replacement extremely difficult – prevention through proper seal maintenance is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Why does my King Kong CS have a screw-based SIM tray instead of a normal tray?
- The screw-based design is part of the IP68 waterproof certification for extreme conditions. Traditional SIM trays would compromise the 1000-pound pressure rating and extreme temperature range. However, this design is notoriously prone to mechanical failures.
- Can I use this phone normally after water submersion like in advertisements?
- While IP68 certified, real-world testing shows significant limitations. Speaker systems frequently fail permanently after submersion, and charging port seals often leak causing corrosion. The phone survives water exposure but may not function normally afterward.
- Why is the MT6580 processor so slow with Android 10 Go Edition?
- The MediaTek MT6580 was designed for Android 6.0-7.0 maximum. Android 10 Go Edition still requires more resources than this legacy chipset can provide. The 2GB RAM and Mali-400 MP1 GPU are insufficient for modern Android versions.
- My bolts are stuck and I cannot access the SIM slots. What should I do?
- The bolt-access design is prone to seizing, especially after water exposure. Use penetrating oil on the bolts and allow 24 hours for penetration. Never force the bolts as this will strip the threads and make SIM access impossible. Consider professional repair if bolts cannot be removed.
- Will flashing firmware fix the speaker audio problem?
- Sometimes, but usually not completely. Speaker failure after water exposure typically requires hardware replacement. However, firmware V17 includes improved audio driver algorithms that may restore partial functionality.
- How do I prevent port seal failures?
- Inspect rubber seals before each use and replace immediately if damaged. Never force ports closed as this deforms the seals. Keep spare seals as they’re consumable parts in extreme-use scenarios.
Conclusion
Restoring the official stock firmware on your Cubot King Kong CS is essential for addressing the unique challenges of this extreme-rugged device, particularly the critical speaker audio system failures, complex dual micro-SIM recognition problems, and waterproofing sensor conflicts. This guide provides all available firmware files and specialized flashing instructions for the MediaTek MT6580-powered Android 10 Go Edition system.
The innovative screw-based SIM access design and military-grade IP68 certification make this device unique in the rugged category, but require specialized maintenance approaches. Remember that the extreme temperature rating and 1000-pound pressure certification come with inherent mechanical complexity that standard smartphones lack.
If this guide helped you resolve your King Kong CS issues, please share your experience in the comments, especially which firmware version worked for your specific extreme-use damage scenario and whether speaker/SIM hardware replacement was ultimately necessary. Your feedback helps our community of extreme outdoor users dealing with similar ultra-rugged device challenges!
