Upgrading the MXQ Amlogic S805 Android 5.1.1 Lollipop can give your old TV box a new lease on life, enabling it to run newer apps like Kodi 17 or higher. This version of Android is typically based on custom firmware originally developed for the "K1" TV box and adapted by community developers like Abdul. ⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This process involves flashing unofficial custom firmware. There is a risk of bricking
your device if the hardware is incompatible (especially if you have a "Blink" version or a model with only 512MB RAM). back up your current firmware using TWRP before starting 1. Download Requirements
To perform this update, you will need the following files typically hosted on enthusiast sites like MXQ Project or developer forums: Android 5.1.1 Firmware (ZIP): Look for the "MXQ S805 Lollipop 5.1.1 by Abdul" package. TWRP Recovery (recovery.img): Needed to flash the system files. Hardware Prep:
A MicroSD card formatted to FAT32 and a physical toothpick or paperclip. Google Groups 2. Installation Steps
MXQ Amlogic S805: Android 5.1.1 Lollipop Download and Installation Guide
Upgrading an older MXQ Amlogic S805 TV box to Android 5.1.1 Lollipop can significantly breathe new life into the device, allowing it to run newer apps and offer a more modern user interface. While these boxes originally shipped with Android 4.4 KitKat, enthusiasts have developed various firmware ports to bridge the gap. Essential Preparation & Requirements
Before starting, identify your specific hardware. The MXQ S805 comes in many variations, such as the "all black" HD18q, Q, or red-stripe models.
Hardware Check: This firmware is generally compatible with HD18q or Q models with 1GB of RAM. It is not recommended for "Blink" versions or the M21D models with only 512MB of RAM. mxq amlogic s805 android 511 lollipop download install
Backup: Always perform a full backup using TWRP recovery. This allows you to revert to your original stock firmware if the installation fails. Tools Needed: A high-quality Micro SD card (FAT32 formatted).
A toothpick or non-conductive pin for the "reset" button hidden inside the AV port. A USB mouse (often required to navigate TWRP menus). Where to Download Firmware
Finding the correct image is critical. Because official support ended years ago, you must rely on community-verified links:
Community Images: Several custom ROMs, including those ported from the Minix Neo X6, are known to work on certain S805 boards.
Download Mirrors: Users often find hosted files on Google Drive or through dedicated enthusiasts like those at MXQ Project. Installation via TWRP Recovery
This is the most common method for installing custom Android 5.1.1 Lollipop builds.
Prepare the SD Card: Copy the firmware .zip file and the recovery.img (TWRP) to the root of your SD card. Boot into Recovery: Insert the SD card into the MXQ box. Disconnect the power cable.
Use a toothpick to press and hold the reset button inside the AV port. While holding the button, plug the power cable back in. Upgrading the MXQ Amlogic S805 Android 5
Release the button after 10–15 seconds once the TWRP screen appears. Wipe and Install:
In TWRP, go to Wipe and perform a "Factory Reset" (this deletes all your data).
Return to the main menu, select Install, and choose the Android 5.1.1 Lollipop .zip from your SD card. Once completed, select Reboot System. Installation via USB Burning Tool
Some firmware versions use an .img file meant for the Amlogic USB Burning Tool. Install the Amlogic USB Burning Tool on your PC. Load the .img firmware file into the tool.
Connect the TV box to your PC using a USB-to-USB (Male to Male) cable while holding the reset button.
Once the tool detects the device, click Start to begin the flash process. Troubleshooting & Alternatives
Step 1 – Install drivers
USB_Burning_Tool (run as admin).Step 2 – Prepare box
Step 3 – Flash
File → Import image → select .img firmware.Start.100% → Burn Success.Stop → close tool → disconnect USB + power.We do not host files directly but guide you to verified, virus-scanned sources (e.g., AndroidFileHost, Chinagadgetsreviews, FreakTab).
swappiness=60 → Add zram size to 512MB.Before downloading any firmware, you must identify the exact PCB (Printed Circuit Board) revision. The wrong firmware will brick the device.
| Checkpoint | Method | Details |
|------------|--------|---------|
| PCB Version | Open the case (warranty void) | Look for text like MXQ-S805 V3.1, V3.2, V5.1, S805_MXQ_V1.2 |
| Wi-Fi Chipset | Read markings on the chip | Common: RTL8188ETV, RTL8723BS, SV6051P, AP6212 |
| NAND/EMMC | Chip marking | Samsung, Toshiba, Hynix (affects burning tool options) |
⚠️ Warning: There is no official "MXQ" brand; it's a generic Chinese reference design. Firmware from one MXQ S805 may not work on another.
Required:
.img firmware fileSteps summary:
Lollipop can run sluggish on the old Cortex-A5. Apply these tweaks: Method A: USB Burning Tool (recommended, erases all
MXQ_S805_V3.2_20160519_Android5.1.1.imgS805_MXQ_5.1.1_RTL8188_20160601.imgMXQ_805_Lollipop_AP6212.img