ZTE Grand X4 (Z956) Firmware Flash File Download [Stock Rom]
The ZTE Grand X4 (model Z956) is a budget-friendly smartphone released in 2016 for the US carrier Cricket Wireless. It was a popular choice for its large display and the inclusion of modern features for its time, like a fingerprint scanner and USB-C port. For users dealing with critical software issues, a device stuck on the Cricket logo, or the common “dm-verity verification failed” error, flashing the official stock firmware is the definitive solution.
Important Note: This device is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 425 chipset. The restoration process requires the use of the QFIL (Qualcomm Flash Image Loader) tool and booting the device into EDL Mode.
Quick Device Specs
- Device
- ZTE Grand X4 (Z956)
- Release year
- 2016
- Chipset
- Qualcomm MSM8917 Snapdragon 425
- Display
- 5.5″ HD IPS LCD (1280×720)
- Battery
- 3140 mAh (Non-removable)
- Memory
- 2GB RAM + 16GB storage
- OS
- Android 6.0.1 (Marshmallow)
- Carrier
- Cricket Wireless (USA)
Required Downloads
| File / Tool | Download Link |
|---|---|
| QPST (QFIL) Tool | Download QPST Tool |
| Qualcomm USB Drivers | Download Drivers |
Stock ROM & Firmware
| Version | Android | Carrier | Type | Download | Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| V2.7.22 | 6.0.1 (Marshmallow) | Cricket Wireless | QPST | Download | ~1.5 GB |
Quick Flashing Guide
- Download and install the Qualcomm USB Drivers and the QPST Tool on your PC.
- Extract the downloaded firmware ZIP file to a folder on your computer.
- Power off your ZTE Grand X4 and boot it into EDL Mode by holding the Volume Up + Volume Down buttons while connecting it to the PC via USB cable.
- Launch QFIL, load the firmware files (`prog_…mbn` and `rawprogram/patch` XMLs), and click the “Download” button to begin flashing.
For a complete, step-by-step tutorial with screenshots, please refer to our definitive guide:
How to Flash Firmware on Qualcomm Smartphones with QFIL
FAQs
Q1. Will this firmware remove the Cricket Wireless network lock?
No. This is the official Cricket Wireless stock firmware. It will restore the original software but will not remove the SIM lock. The device will remain locked to the Cricket (AT&T) network.
Q2. My phone shows a “dm-verity verification failed” error on boot. Will this fix it?
Yes, absolutely. The “dm-verity” error indicates that the system partition is corrupt or has been modified. Flashing this full stock firmware with QFIL is the standard and most effective way to completely rewrite the system partition and resolve this specific error.
Q3. Can I update this phone to a newer Android version like Nougat or Oreo?
No. Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow was the last major official OS version for the ZTE Grand X4. This firmware restores that version; no further official upgrades are available from ZTE or Cricket.
Device-Specific Troubleshooting
- Stuck on the Green Cricket Logo: This is a common bootloop issue for the Grand X4. The definitive fix is to flash the stock firmware using the QFIL guide. After the flash completes, be aware the first boot can take up to 15 minutes. If it’s still stuck, perform a “wipe data/factory reset” from recovery mode (hold Volume Up + Power).
- Wi-Fi Calling Not Working: As a carrier-branded phone, Wi-Fi calling is a core feature. If it’s not working, a firmware flash will restore the original carrier settings. After flashing, ensure the feature is enabled in `Settings > More > Wi-Fi Calling`. If it still fails, the issue may be with your account provisioning at Cricket Wireless.
- “No Service” After Unlocking and Using a New SIM: Flashing the stock Cricket firmware can sometimes help restore proper modem function. However, the Grand X4 has limited support for network bands outside of AT&T/Cricket. Even when unlocked, it may not be fully compatible with other networks like T-Mobile or Verizon, leading to poor signal or no service.
- QFIL Fails with a “Sahara” Error: This classic QFIL error points to a communication failure. The most common cause is a driver issue. Reinstall the Qualcomm 9008 drivers (disabling driver signature enforcement in Windows first), use a high-quality USB cable, and ensure the phone is fully powered off before entering EDL mode.
