How to Flash Vivo iQOO Z8 (China)? 4 Proven Methods

Flashing your Vivo iQOO Z8 (China) is a powerful way to fix software-related problems, unbrick your phone, or upgrade/downgrade the firmware. This detailed guide will walk you through four proven methods to flash your device safely and efficiently.

Why Flash Your Vivo iQOO Z8 (China)?

Flashing is the process of installing a new firmware (ROM) on your phone. People often flash their devices to:

• Fix boot loop or stuck on logo issues
• Upgrade or downgrade the Android version
• Remove bloatware or malware
• Install custom ROMs
• Restore the phone to factory firmware

⚠️ Important Notice

Flashing is risky. If not done properly, it can brick your device or erase important data. Follow each step carefully. We’re not responsible for any damage. Do it at your own risk.

Pre-Requisites Before Flashing

• Backup all important data including contacts, images, and apps
• Charge your phone to at least 70%
• Enable USB Debugging and OEM Unlocking from Developer Options
• Download and install ADB & Fastboot tools
• Use original USB cable for best connectivity

Method #1: Flashing Vivo iQOO Z8 (China) via Stock Recovery

This is the easiest way to flash a stock ROM using the official recovery system provided by Realme.

Steps:

1. Download the official firmware package from the Realme support site and save it to your phone’s internal storage (not in any folder).
2. Turn off the phone and press Volume Down + Power to enter recovery mode.
3. Select Install from storage using the volume buttons.
4. Locate and tap the firmware ZIP file.
5. Confirm installation and wait for the process to complete.
6. Once done, reboot your phone.

This method is suitable for users who want to flash stock ROM without a computer.

Method #2: Flashing Vivo iQOO Z8 (China) via Fastboot & ADB

This method gives you more control but requires a PC. It’s often used when the device is bricked or not booting properly.

Steps:

1. Download the latest Vivo iQOO Z8 (China) firmware in .img or .zip format (Fastboot version).
2. Install ADB and Fastboot drivers on your PC.
3. Enable Developer Options and turn on OEM Unlock and USB Debugging.
4. Connect your phone to the PC using USB.
5. Open the command prompt inside the ADB folder.
6. Type adb reboot bootloader and press Enter to boot into Fastboot mode.
7. Now type fastboot flash recovery recovery.img (replace with correct filename).
8. Then type fastboot reboot.

Your phone will now boot into the newly flashed firmware.

Method #3: Flashing Vivo iQOO Z8 (China) via Realme Flash Tool

This official flashing tool by Realme simplifies the process of firmware flashing on Realme devices.

Steps:

1. Download the Realme Flash Tool on your PC.
2. Install required drivers like Qualcomm USB Drivers and extract the downloaded firmware.
3. Boot your phone into Fastboot mode (Power + Volume Down).
4. Connect your phone via USB to the PC.
5. Launch the Flash Tool and select the extracted firmware folder.
6. Click on Flash and wait for the flashing to complete.
7. Once done, reboot your phone normally.

This method is ideal for people who prefer official tools and want minimal risk.

Method #4: Flashing Vivo iQOO Z8 (China) via TWRP Custom Recovery

This method is for advanced users who want to flash custom ROMs or root access with Magisk.

Steps:

1. Install TWRP recovery on your Vivo iQOO Z8 (China) (requires unlocked bootloader).
2. Download your desired custom ROM and Magisk.zip file.
3. Boot your phone into TWRP mode (Power + Volume Up).
4. Select Wipe > Advanced Wipe and wipe Dalvik, Cache, System, and Data.
5. Go back and tap Install.
6. Select the custom ROM zip and swipe to confirm flash.
7. Then flash Magisk.zip (optional for root).
8. Finally, reboot your system.

If you need a scatter file for this process, you can generate a scatter file for your device.

How to Check if Flashing Was Successful?

• If your phone boots up without getting stuck in boot loop or logo screen, it’s a success.
• Go to Settings > About Phone and check the firmware version.
• Alternatively, install CPU-Z or Device Info app to confirm new firmware details.

How to Unflash or Rollback Vivo iQOO Z8 (China)?

If you want to return to the official firmware, follow Method #1 using the official Realme stock ROM. You can also try the Android downgrade generator to get rollback packages if moving from beta/custom to stable.

Final Thoughts

Flashing Vivo iQOO Z8 (China) opens up a range of possibilities, from fixing bugs to installing new features. In this guide, we discussed four working methods—via stock recovery, ADB, Realme Flash Tool, and TWRP. Choose the one that fits your needs and skill level.

If you get stuck or need help, feel free to drop a comment or reach out to the Realme community forums. Stay safe and happy flashing!