The ZTE Blade A5 Pro is an ultra-affordable 3G smartphone from 2016 designed for essential communication. It features a 5.0-inch display and is powered by a UNISOC (Spreadtrum) SC7731E processor. This guide provides the official stock ROM (.pac file), which is essential for unbricking a device, fixing software bugs, removing a Google FRP lock, or resolving bootloop issues by performing a complete factory restore.
Important: This firmware is specifically for the ZTE Blade A5 Pro. As a UNISOC/Spreadtrum device, it requires the SPD Upgrade Tool for flashing. Flashing this on a different model will cause a hard brick. This process will erase all data on your device.
Quick Device Specs
- Device: ZTE Blade A5 Pro
- Release year: 2016
- Chipset: UNISOC SC7731E (3G connectivity)
- Display: 5.0″ IPS LCD
- Battery: 2150 mAh
- Original OS: Android 5.1 (Lollipop)
Required Downloads
To flash a Spreadtrum/UNISOC device, you will need the specific drivers and flashing tool. You can find the downloads for these in our main guide linked below.
- SPD Upgrade Tool or SPD Research Tool
- Spreadtrum/UNISOC USB Drivers
Stock ROM (Firmware)
| Build Date | Android | Type | Download | Chipset |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016-12-02 | 5.1 | SPD .pac Firmware |
Download | UNISOC/SPD |
How to Flash the Stock Firmware
Flashing the stock ROM onto your ZTE Blade A5 Pro requires a Windows PC and the SPD Upgrade Tool. The process involves installing the correct UNISOC drivers, loading the .pac firmware file from the download into the tool, and then connecting your powered-off phone while holding the Volume Down key to initiate the flash.
For detailed, step-by-step instructions with screenshots and tool download links, please follow our comprehensive pillar guide: How to Use the SPD Upgrade Tool to Flash Your Smartphone.
Device-Specific Troubleshooting for ZTE Blade A5 Pro
- Correct Driver Installation: The most common failure point is incorrect drivers. If the tool doesn’t see your phone, you must install the Spreadtrum/UNISOC drivers, which often requires you to disable ‘Driver Signature Enforcement’ in Windows first.
- Using the “Boot Key”: To initiate the flash, power the phone off completely. Press and hold the Volume Down button, and while holding it, connect the phone to your PC. The tool should then detect it and begin the process.
- Fixing Google FRP Lock: If you’re locked out of your phone by Google’s Factory Reset Protection (FRP), flashing this stock ROM will perform a complete wipe and remove the locked account, allowing you to set it up from scratch.
- 3G Network Decommissioning: Be aware that the Blade A5 Pro is a 3G-only device. Many mobile carriers around the world are shutting down their 3G networks. After flashing, if you have no signal, it may be because 3G service is no longer available in your area.
FAQs
Q1. Is this the same as the ZTE Blade A5 (2019) or (2020)?
No, absolutely not. This firmware is for the much older 2016 “Pro” model. The Blade A5 (2019) and (2020) are completely different phones with newer hardware, different designs, and they run modern versions of Android. Their firmwares are not interchangeable.
Q2. What is a .pac file?
A .pac file is a packed firmware file used for Spreadtrum/UNISOC chipsets. It contains all the necessary partitions—system, boot, recovery, etc.—in a single, integrated file for flashing.
Q3. Will this process erase my data?
Yes. Flashing the stock ROM with the SPD Upgrade Tool will perform a full factory reset and completely wipe all personal data, apps, and settings from your device.
Q4. My phone is stuck on the ZTE logo. Will this fix it?
Yes. Being stuck on the logo (a “bootloop”) is a classic software problem. Flashing the stock ROM is the most reliable way to fix this issue as it completely reinstalls the phone’s operating system.
