FAQ
TL;DR: Want to fix Xperia XA1 touch/unlock glitches after Android 8.0? Use a 3-step Flashmode process—“press the 'Volume Down Button' and then connect the cable”—to load stock firmware with Flashtool. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17241558]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Xperia XA1 owners roll back from Android 8.0 safely without a service visit.
Quick Facts
- Toolchain: Flashtool + Sony Flashmode; use the linked manual and firmware repository shared in the thread. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17239145]
- Example confirmed set: Model G3121, Play PL branding, build 48.1.A.0.129 (Android 8.0). [Elektroda, mieszko I, #17593516]
- Download flow: open the firmware page, click “click here to start download,” then press “download.” [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17240924]
- Enter Flashmode: phone off → click Flash in Flashtool → hold Volume Down → plug in USB. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17241558]
- FRP: If you didn’t remove the previous Google account, setup will demand it after flashing. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17593524]
How do I revert Sony Xperia XA1 from Android 8.0 to a previous version?
Use Flashtool with the phone in Flashmode and the correct stock firmware. Then start flashing with proper timing.
- Click Flash in Flashtool and select your firmware.
- With the phone off, hold Volume Down.
- While holding, plug in USB; release when flashing begins. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17241558]
What tool should I use to flash the stock ROM?
Use Flashtool. “Upload the software version you are looking for with Flashtool.” It interfaces with Sony’s Flashmode and handles XA1 firmware well. Follow the program’s prompts. [Elektroda, Adrian4477, post #17236128]
Where can I download the correct firmware for XA1?
Use the firmware repository linked in the thread and the step-by-step flashing manual. Choose files that match your exact model and branding. Download the stock ROM package for use in Flashtool. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17239145]
How do I start the download on that firmware site?
Open your device’s firmware page. Click “click here to start download.” On the next page, click “download.” That begins the file transfer. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17240924]
Flashtool asks me to connect the phone, but flashing never starts. What’s the fix?
Trigger Flashmode correctly. Click Flash first in Flashtool. With the phone powered off, hold Volume Down, then connect USB. Keep holding until flashing begins. This timing starts the session. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17241558]
What is Flashmode and how do I enter it on Xperia XA1?
Flashmode is Sony’s low-level interface for firmware flashing. Enter it with the phone off. Hold Volume Down while plugging in USB. “Connect the phone in flashmode.” [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17241496]
Should I tick all Wipe options in Flashtool when downgrading?
Selecting all Wipe options performs a clean install and removes user data. It helps avoid conflicts between builds. Follow the manual’s guidance and use Wipe when changing major versions. Back up first. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17239145]
After flashing, it still asks for my previous Google account. Why, and what do I do?
That’s Factory Reset Protection (FRP). “The phone has a frp lock.” Sign in with the last Google account used on the device. Without it, seek official service assistance. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17593524]
How do I prevent FRP from blocking setup after flashing?
Before resetting or flashing, remove the current Google account from Settings. If you don’t, setup will require that same account afterward. This behavior indicates FRP is active. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17593524]
Does carrier firmware choice matter (e.g., Play PL vs. generic)?
Yes, match firmware to your model and region. One user confirmed flashing G3121_Play PL_1307-5711_48.1.A.0.129_R1B successfully. Mismatched builds can cause activation or feature problems. [Elektroda, mieszko I, #17593516]
Is there an easier method than Flashtool or a fix if I’m stuck?
If flashing fails or you prefer not to proceed, use a service center. The expert in the thread advises leaving it to service when attempts stall. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17258744]
I followed the manual, but the system still won’t install—what now?
Repeat the Flashmode sequence carefully and reselect firmware that matches your model. If it still fails, stop and hand it to service. This avoids further delays and frustration. [Elektroda, nutergsm, post #17258744]
because the system still not installed
