ZTE Nubia Play 5G / Redmagic 5G Lite (NX651J) Firmware Flash File Download [Stock Rom]
The Nubia Play 5G (model NX651J), which was marketed globally as the Redmagic 5G Lite, is a formidable mid-range gaming smartphone from 2020. It boasts a high-refresh-rate 144Hz AMOLED screen and the powerful Snapdragon 765G 5G chipset.
This page provides a comprehensive collection of firmware for your device. It includes both full factory firmware (QPST), which is essential for unbricking a dead device or converting a regional version, and OTA (Over-The-Air) update packages for performing manual software updates on a functioning phone. Please carefully choose the correct file type for your needs.
Quick Device Specs
- Device: Nubia Play 5G / Redmagic 5G Lite (NX651J)
- Release year: 2020
- Chipset: Qualcomm Snapdragon 765G 5G
- Display: 6.65″ AMOLED, 144Hz
- Battery: 5100 mAh (Non-removable)
- Memory: 6GB/8GB RAM + 128GB/256GB storage
- Camera: 48MP + 8MP + 2MP + 2MP quad rear, 12MP front
- OS: Android 10
Required Downloads (for QFIL Method Only)
These tools are only necessary for flashing the full factory firmware (QPST files). They are not needed for OTA updates.
| File / Tool | Download Link |
|---|---|
| QPST (QFIL) Tool | Download QPST Tool |
| Qualcomm USB Drivers | Download Drivers |
Stock ROM & Firmware
Warning: The QPST files will completely erase your device. The OTA file requires an un-rooted, stock system to install. Flashing firmware from a different region can be risky.
Full Firmware (for Unbricking via QFIL)
| Version | Android | Region | Download |
|---|---|---|---|
| V204 | 10 | Global (EN) | Download |
| (20/05/2020) | 10 | (Unspecified) | Download |
OTA Update Packages (for Manual Updates)
| Version | Android | Region | Download |
|---|---|---|---|
| (General Update) | 10 | (Unspecified) | Download |
How to Flash
Choose the correct guide based on the file you downloaded.
Quick Flashing Guide (QFIL Method)
- Download and install the Qualcomm USB Drivers and the QPST Tool.
- Extract the QPST firmware ZIP file to a folder on your PC.
- Power off your phone and boot it into EDL Mode by holding the Volume Up + Volume Down buttons while connecting it to the PC.
- Launch QFIL, load the firmware files (prog_…mbn and 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
Quick Guide (OTA Update Method)
- Download the OTA update .zip file and move it to the root directory of your phone’s internal storage.
- On your phone, navigate to Settings > System > System Update.
- Tap the settings icon (gear or toolbox) in the top-right corner and select Local update.
- The phone will find the ZIP file. Select it to begin the installation process.
FAQs
Q1. What is the difference between the QPST and OTA files?
A QPST file is a full factory firmware package that is flashed using a PC. It is used to completely restore a device, even from a bricked state, and will erase all data. An OTA file is a smaller update package that is installed directly on a working phone (without a PC) to upgrade the software to a newer version.
Q2. Why does this phone have two different names?
This is a common marketing strategy. The device was launched as the Nubia Play 5G in its home market of China. For its release in global markets (often through carriers like Vodafone), it was rebranded as the Redmagic 5G Lite to align with the more internationally recognized Redmagic gaming brand.
Q3. Can I convert my Chinese Nubia Play 5G to a Global Redmagic 5G Lite?
Yes, by flashing the Global (EN) QPST firmware, you can convert the software on a Chinese model. This will install the global ROM, which includes Google Play Services. However, this is an advanced procedure that carries risks and may not be straightforward.
Q4. My phone is rooted. Which firmware should I use?
You should not use the OTA file, as it will fail on a rooted device. You must first unroot and restore the stock recovery. Alternatively, flashing a QPST firmware will completely wipe the device, removing root and restoring it to a factory state.
Troubleshooting
- QFIL Errors (“Sahara”, “No Port”): These errors are almost always caused by incorrect Qualcomm driver installation. Re-install the drivers, use a different USB port, and ensure your device is entering EDL mode correctly.
- OTA Verification Failed: This error occurs if you are trying to install an OTA update on a rooted device, a device with a custom recovery, or if you downloaded the wrong OTA for your current software version. You must be on 100% stock firmware.
- Device Stuck on Boot Logo After Flashing: The first boot after a full QPST flash can take 15-20 minutes. If it is still stuck, boot into recovery mode (hold Volume Up + Power from off) and perform a “Wipe data/factory reset”.
- “Local Update” Option Not Found: Make sure the OTA .zip file is in the main root directory of your internal storage, not inside the “Download” folder or any other sub-folder.
