The Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1 remains a cult classic in the budget smartphone world, largely due to its massive battery and near-stock Android experience. While the device originally launched with Android Oreo, the jump to Android 10 represents the most significant performance and feature leap for its hardware.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the firmware, installation methods, and what to expect from the update. Understanding the Official Update Status
Asus released Android 10 for the Zenfone Max Pro M1 (ZB601KL/ZB602KL) primarily as a "Developer Version" rather than a widespread automatic OTA (Over-the-Air) update. Because the device transitioned into legacy support during the Android 10 rollout, many users must manually flash the firmware to enjoy the latest official software. Key Features of Android 10 on Zenfone Max Pro M1
Updating to Android 10 brings several modern amenities to this reliable hardware:
System-wide Dark Theme: Improves battery life on the LCD panel and reduces eye strain.
Gesture Navigation: Replaces the traditional three-button nav bar with modern swipes.
Enhanced Privacy: Finer control over app permissions, specifically location data.
Digital Wellbeing: Tools to monitor screen time and set app limits.
Smart Reply: Suggested actions and responses in notification bubbles. Firmware Download Details
Before flashing, ensure you have the correct model-specific firmware. Using the wrong version can result in a "brick" (an unbootable device). Model Name Zenfone Max Pro M1 (ZB601KL / ZB602KL) Android Version Android 10 (Stable/Developer Version) Build Number V17.2017.2012.438 (Common Stable Build) File Size Approximately 1.6 GB - 1.8 GB Security Patch Varies by specific regional release Preparation Checklist
Backup Data: Internal storage is often wiped during major version jumps. Back up photos, contacts, and messages.
Battery Level: Ensure the device is charged to at least 60% to prevent shutdown during the flash. firmware asus zenfone max pro m1 android 10
Drivers: If using a PC, install the latest Asus USB drivers.
Verify Model: Go to Settings > System > About Phone to confirm you have the ZB601KL or ZB602KL. Installation Methods Method 1: The Simple Internal Storage Flash (Recommended)
This is the easiest way to update if you are currently on the latest version of Android 9 (Pie).
Download the Android 10 Firmware ZIP file from the official Asus support site.
Move the file directly to the root directory of your phone's internal storage (do not put it inside any folder). Restart your phone.
A notification saying "System Update File Detected" will appear in the status bar. Tap the notification and follow the prompts to install. Method 2: Recovery Mode (Fastboot/ADB)
If the notification does not appear, you may need to use the recovery menu. Turn off the phone. Hold Power + Volume Down to enter Recovery Mode.
Select "Apply update from ADB" or "Apply update from external storage."
If using ADB, connect to a PC and use the command: adb sideload [filename].zip. Common Issues and Troubleshooting
Battery Drain: After a major update, the system needs 48–72 hours to recalibrate. Expect higher drain initially.
Slow Charging: Some users report slower "Fast Charging" on Android 10. Using the original charger is critical. The Asus Zenfone Max Pro M1 remains a
WiFi Drops: If WiFi is unstable, navigate to Settings > System > Reset Options > Reset Wi-Fi, Mobile & Bluetooth. Should You Go Custom?
Since official support for the Zenfone Max Pro M1 has slowed, many users opt for Custom ROMs like Pixel Experience or LineageOS. These often provide Android 11, 12, or even 13. However, if you value stability and the original Asus tuning for the camera and battery, the Official Android 10 Firmware remains the best choice for a daily driver.
Is your phone the Indian (ZB601KL) or Global (ZB602KL) model?
Do you have access to a Windows PC, or are you trying to do this phone-only?
I can provide the exact download links or a step-by-step troubleshooting guide based on your setup.
🛠️ ASUS ZenFone Max Pro M1 (ZB601KL/ZB602KL) Android 10 Guide
The transition to Android 10 for the ZenFone Max Pro M1 is unique because it never moved past "Beta" status for the official global firmware. While stable, it requires manual installation. 📥 Official Firmware Details Version: Android 10 Developer Version (Final) Build Number: V17.2017.2012.438 Release Date: Q4 2020
Key Features: System-wide Dark Mode, Gesture Navigation, Improved Privacy Controls. ⚠️ Pre-Installation Checklist Backup Data: This process wipes all user data. Battery: Ensure at least 60% charge. Model Check: Verify your model is ZB601KL or ZB602KL. Storage: At least 2GB free on internal storage. 🚀 How to Install (Official Manual Method)
Download: Get the ZIP firmware from the official ASUS Support site.
Placement: Move the ZIP file to the root directory of your internal storage (not inside any folder). Trigger: Restart your phone.
Update: A notification saying "System Update File Detected" will appear. Tap it. LineageOS 17
Wait: The phone will reboot and begin the installation. Do not turn off the device. 📉 Known Issues in Android 10 Beta
Since this build is a "Developer Version," some users report:
Slow Charging: Charging speeds may feel lower than Android 9.
EIS Issues: Electronic Image Stabilization might be buggy in the stock camera. Audio: Occasional low volume in wired headphones. 🔓 The Custom ROM Alternative
Because official support ended at Android 10, many users opt for Custom ROMs to get Android 11, 12, or 13. Popular Options: Pixel Experience, LineageOS, ArrowOS.
Requirement: Requires unlocking the bootloader and installing TWRP recovery.
Asus did not release an official Android 10 update for the Zenfone Max Pro M1 (ZB601KL / ZB602KL). The last official firmware from Asus is Android 9 Pie.
If you are looking for an Android 10 ROM for this device, you need to use custom firmware (unofficial). The most stable and widely used options are:
Important notes:
Where to find these:
If you actually need the latest official Asus firmware (Android 9), you can get it from:
⚠️ Warning: Flashing custom firmware voids warranty and may hard-brick the device if steps are skipped.
| Issue | Fix |
|-------|-----|
| Bootloop | Reboot to TWRP, Format Data again |
| No Wi-Fi/camera | Flash the correct firmware (.954 or newer) before ROM |
| TWRP not sticking | After flashing TWRP, boot directly to recovery – don't boot system first |
| Encryption error | Format Data (not just wipe) |
