Firmware Change Update On Blackberry 9790 Bold May 2026

Updating the firmware on a legacy device like the BlackBerry Bold 9790

can help resolve software bugs, improve stability, or allow for a "re-load" of the operating system if the device is hanging.

Below is a guide on how to perform a firmware change or update. Important Prerequisites Backup Your Data : A firmware change or update may wipe your device. Use BlackBerry Desktop Software

to create a full backup of your contacts, messages, and media. Battery Level

: Ensure your battery is charged to at least 50% or keep it plugged into a power source. Check Current Version About Device Versions to see your current handheld software version. Option 1: Over-the-Air (OTA) Update

This is the simplest method if your device is still connected to a cellular or Wi-Fi network that supports BlackBerry services. On the Home screen, click the tray and select Navigate to Software Updates

The device will check for available updates. If one is found, follow the on-screen prompts to download and install it. Firmware Change Update on BLACKBERRY 9790 Bold

: Given the age of the device, OTA updates may no longer be hosted on carrier servers. Option 2: Using BlackBerry Desktop Software (PC/Mac)

This is the most reliable way to change or "refresh" the firmware. Download & Install : Install the BlackBerry Desktop Manager on your computer. Connect Device : Connect your via USB cable. Update Prompt

: The software should automatically detect if a newer version is available. Click to proceed. Change/Reload Firmware : If you want to change the firmware version manually: Download the specific firmware (.exe) for the from a trusted archive or carrier site. Install the firmware on your PC. Locate and delete the vendor.xml file (usually in

C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Research In Motion\AppLoader Loader.exe

from the same folder to manually push the new firmware to the device. Option 3: Web-Based Update

Visit the official BlackBerry update portal (if still active) using Internet Explorer (as it often requires ActiveX). Updating the firmware on a legacy device like

Connect your device and follow the prompts to "Check for Updates". Troubleshooting & After-Update Steps Device Reset

: If the update fails or the device hangs, you may need to perform a factory reset via Backup & Reset (or Security Options) before trying again. Language Settings

: After a firmware change, you may need to re-select your preferred language under Typing and Language specific firmware version or carrier-specific download for your region?

Method 1: Using BlackBerry Desktop Software

1. Download and Install BlackBerry Desktop Software: Download and install the BlackBerry Desktop Software from the official BlackBerry website.
2. Connect Your Device: Connect your BlackBerry 9790 Bold to your computer using a USB cable.
3. Launch BlackBerry Desktop Software: Launch the BlackBerry Desktop Software and select your device from the list of detected devices.
4. Check for Updates: Click on the "Check for Updates" button to search for available firmware updates.
5. Download and Install Update: Follow the prompts to download and install the update.

Part 1: Understanding Firmware on the BlackBerry 9790 Bold

Method 1: The Manual BlackBerry Desktop Software Update (Windows Only)

This is the classic, most reliable method.

Step 1: Install BlackBerry Desktop Software v7.1 Download from archive.org (version 7.1.0.42 B37). Install on Windows 7, 8, or 10 (Windows 11 requires compatibility mode).

Step 2: Install the New Firmware to Your PC Run the downloaded .exe firmware file (e.g., 9790_7.1.0.1098_P7.1.0.569.exe). This extracts OS files to: C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Research In Motion\Shared\Loader Files Method 1: Using BlackBerry Desktop Software

Step 3: Delete the Vendor.xml File (Crucial!) Navigate to: C:\Program Files (x86)\Common Files\Research In Motion\AppLoader Delete Vendor.xml. This bypasses carrier locks, allowing any 9790 to accept the firmware.

Step 4: Wipe the Device (Optional but Recommended) Use JL_Cmder or BlackBerry Swiss Army Knife (BBSAK) to perform a full wipe. Enter wipe command. Your 9790 will show a "Reload Software: 507" error – this is correct.

Step 5: Launch the App Loader Still in the AppLoader folder, double-click Loader.exe. Do not use Desktop Manager’s automatic update.

Step 6: Select Your Firmware The Loader will detect your 9790 (even with error 507). Click Add to select the new OS. Ensure the box for "BlackBerry 7.1.0 System Software" is checked.

Step 7: Customize Components Uncheck unnecessary languages and fonts to save space. Always keep:

• Core Apps
• Required OS System
• Radio Stack

Step 8: Initiate the Flash Click Next. The progress bar will show:

1. Erasing existing firmware
2. Writing OS image
3. Writing radio stack image
4. Rebooting device (the LED will blink red/green)

Do not disconnect USB. The device may reboot several times – this is normal.

Official Firmware (EOL by BlackBerry)

• Pros: Stable, certified radio stack, no malware.
• Cons: No new features, outdated root certificates.