The "v10" does not imply a tenth version of a physical loader. Instead, it refers to the version used for handshaking between the host PC and the device’s PBL (Primary Boot Loader). The Sahara protocol (versions 3, 4, and extended for v10) controls the initial transfer of the Firehose programmer.
Which is installed on your computer?
Verify your phone's processor model and download the correct, untampered factory firmware package.
Click on the or Programmer button. Navigate to your extracted firmware folder and select the firehose programmer file (usually named prog_emmc_firehose_xxxx.mbn or prog_ufs_firehose_xxxx.elf ).
| Error Message | Likely Cause | Solution | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | "Sahara protocol error" | Wrong programmer file or USB handshake issue | Reboot PC, re-enter EDL, use USB 2.0 port, not 3.0. | | "Firehose: Failed to receive hello" | Driver conflict (e.g., old Qualcomm driver or Android ADB interface) | Uninstall all previous Qualcomm drivers in Device Manager, then reinstall v10 only. | | "NOP: 0x7" | Secure boot preventing write to certain partitions | Unlock the bootloader via fastboot if possible. Otherwise, you need an authorized QPST account (OEM only). | | "Device not in EDL mode" | Wrong driver loaded (e.g., CDC Serial) | Manually force the driver to "Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008". | | "Cannot open COM port" | Another program using the port (e.g., serial monitor, MiFlash) | Close all other flashing/diagnostic tools. |
If your device still boots to the OS or Fastboot but you want to flash clean factory imagery:
Whether the device is currently in Device Manager.
Open a command prompt with ADB tools installed and type: adb reboot edl
When a device is bricked or forced into (e.g., via test points, deep flash cable, or fastboot oem edl ), the PBL takes over. The PBL expects a "firehose" programmer file sent via USB. This is where QFL v10 enters:
Turn off the device. Hold Volume Up + Volume Down simultaneously and connect the phone to the PC via USB.
Use an original or certified OEM cable. Unreliable cables cause data corruption mid-flash.
Alternatively, if the device is in fastboot mode, type: fastboot oem edl Method C: Test Points (For Hard-Bricks)
What is the of the smartphone you are trying to flash?
With everything configured, the "Download" button in QFIL should now be enabled. Click it to begin the flashing process. The tool will display its progress in the status and log boxes at the bottom of the window. Do not disconnect your phone or close QFIL under any circumstances until the process is 100% complete, as interrupting it can cause a serious hard-brick that may be difficult to recover from.
Specific key combinations (e.g., holding Volume Up + Down while plugging in USB). ADB commands ( adb reboot edl ).
