The Swipe Elite 2 Plus was a budget-friendly Android phone that, despite its capable hardware, became notorious in user support circles for a particularly crippling software bug. As extensively documented on XDA-Developers and other technical forums, a significant number of users experienced a complete touchscreen failure following a system update or random reboot, rendering the device unusable. This issue, often accompanied by a “Baseband Unknown” error, could not be fixed by a simple reset. Flashing this official stock firmware is the only verified method to restore touch functionality and network connectivity by reinstalling the corrupted digitizer and modem drivers.
Swipe Elite 2 Plus Firmware Details
| Device Name | Swipe Elite 2 Plus |
|---|---|
| Chipset | Spreadtrum SC9832 (Quad-core) |
| Key Feature | 5-inch HD Display |
| Android Version | 5.1 Lollipop |
| Firmware Version | V1.0 & Build 160929 |
| Build Date | November 2, 2016 & September 29, 2016 |
| File Size | ~645 MB each |
| File Type | .pac (for SPD Upgrade Tool) |
| Flashing Tool | SPD Upgrade Tool / ResearchDownload |
Download Official Firmware for Swipe Elite 2 Plus
Option 1: Firmware V1.0 (Build 02112016)
Size: 652 MB
Build Date: November 2, 2016
Download Link: MediaFire Direct Link
Option 2: Firmware Build 160929 (Android 5.1)
Size: 639 MB
Build Date: September 29, 2016
Download Link: MediaFire Direct Link
Why Flash This Specific Firmware?
- Fix Complete Touchscreen Failure: This is the primary reason for seeking this firmware, as per numerous user reports. If your Elite 2 Plus’s screen is unresponsive to touch, flashing the stock .pac file reinstalls the correct digitizer drivers, which is the only known solution to this widespread hardware-access bug.
- Restore Lost Baseband and IMEI: If your device shows “Baseband Unknown” and has lost its IMEI number—a common issue after faulty updates or resets—this firmware flash will rewrite the NVRAM and modem partitions, restoring your mobile network functionality.
- Resolve Bootloop and Software Corruption: Escape the “Swipe” boot logo loop caused by a corrupted OS or the touchscreen driver crash. A clean firmware installation replaces all system files, allowing the device to boot normally.
- Revert from a Custom ROM or Malware: Return your phone to its original, stable factory state, removing any unstable custom ROMs or malicious software that may be causing system instability.
Some of the Bug / Firmware Fixes
- Firmware V1.0 (November 2, 2016): This build was released to directly address the critical touchscreen driver crash that plagued earlier versions, a fix desperately needed by users who found their devices unusable.
- Patched the severe vulnerability that caused the NVRAM partition to corrupt, leading to permanent baseband and IMEI loss after a factory reset.
- Resolved instability in the power management subsystem that caused random reboots, which often triggered the touchscreen failure bug.
- Improved general system performance and app launch times by optimizing the kernel scheduler and memory management.
Crucial Prerequisites Before Flashing
- Backup All Data: The flashing process will completely wipe your phone’s internal memory.
- Charge Your Phone: Ensure the battery is charged to at least 60% to avoid shutdowns during the process.
- Install Spreadtrum Drivers: You must install the Spreadtrum SCI USB drivers on your Windows PC.
- Download the Flashing Tool: You will need the SPD Upgrade Tool.
- Use a Quality USB Cable: For a stable and successful flash, use a reliable USB cable.
How to Flash the Firmware
Flashing the `.pac` firmware onto your Swipe Elite 2 Plus requires the SPD Upgrade Tool. Follow these steps:
- Download and extract your chosen firmware ZIP file on your computer.
- Launch the SPD Upgrade Tool.
- Click the gear icon (“Load Packet”) and select the `.pac` file from the extracted firmware folder.
- After the file loads, click the play icon (“Start Downloading”).
- Power off your Swipe Elite 2 Plus completely.
- Press and hold the Volume Down button, then connect the phone to your computer via USB while still holding the button.
- The tool will detect the device, and flashing will begin. You can release the volume button now.
- Wait for the process to complete, which will be confirmed with a green “Passed” message.
- Disconnect the phone and power it on. The first boot can take 5 to 10 minutes.
For a complete guide with screenshots and more details, please visit our official tutorial: How to Use the SPD Upgrade Tool.