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How to Flash OxygenOS 15/16 on OnePlus Ace 5 Pro

Introduction: Unlocking the True Potential of Your OnePlus Ace 5 Pro

The OnePlus Ace series has established itself as a formidable contender in the high-performance smartphone market, offering flagship-tier specifications at a more accessible price point. However, for enthusiasts and global users, there is a significant hurdle: the Chinese variant, identified by model number PKR110, comes pre-installed with ColorOS. While ColorOS has evolved into a robust and feature-rich Android skin, the global OnePlus community overwhelmingly prefers the cleaner, stock-like, and bloatware-free experience of OxygenOS.

We understand the desire for a unified, global software experience. The transition from ColorOS to OxygenOS is not merely an aesthetic change; it is a fundamental shift in how you interact with your device. It removes region-specific restrictions, unlocks full Google Mobile Services (GMS) compatibility without workarounds, and provides a smoother, more responsive user interface that aligns with the “Never Settle” philosophy.

This comprehensive guide is designed to walk you through the intricate process of flashing the Global OxygenOS 15/16 firmware onto your OnePlus Ace 5 Pro (PKR110). We will cover everything from the crucial prerequisites and necessary tools to the step-by-step flashing procedure using industry-standard methods like the MSM Download Tool and TWRP/OrangeFox recovery. Please proceed with caution, as this process involves modifying your device’s core software and, if not done correctly, can lead to a soft brick. We strongly recommend reading every step thoroughly before attempting anything on your device.

Understanding the ColorOS to OxygenOS Transition

Before initiating the flashing process, it is vital to understand the technical implications of moving from the Chinese firmware to the Global firmware. The OnePlus Ace 5 Pro (PKR110) is hardware-identical to the global OnePlus 13R or the standard OnePlus 13, depending on the region and release cycle, but the software partition layout and carrier branding are distinct.

ColorOS vs. OxygenOS: A Detailed Comparison

Crucial Prerequisites for Flashing OxygenOS 15/16

We cannot stress enough the importance of preparation. Skipping these steps can lead to data loss or a bricked device. Ensure you have the following ready before you proceed.

1. Essential Tools and Software

You will need a Windows PC for the most reliable flashing experience. Download and install the following:

2. Firmware Files

3. Backup Your Data

Warning: This process will wipe all data on your device. We highly recommend backing up your photos, videos, documents, and chats to an external drive or cloud service. There is no guarantee that data will be recoverable after flashing.

4. Battery and Cable

Ensure your OnePlus Ace 5 Pro has at least 60% battery charge. Use a high-quality OEM USB Type-C cable to prevent disconnection during the flashing process, which can cause severe corruption.

Method 1: Flashing via MSM Download Tool (The Safest Route)

The MSM Download Tool is the holy grail for OnePlus flashing. It reinstalls the entire stock firmware, effectively restoring the device to its factory state with the new OS. This method is generally preferred because it handles the partition formatting and flashing automatically.

Step 1: Boot into EDL Mode (Emergency Download Mode)

There are two ways to enter EDL mode on the OnePlus Ace 5 Pro:

  1. Software Method:
    • Connect your phone to your PC via USB.
    • Open a Command Prompt or PowerShell window in your Platform-Tools folder.
    • Type adb devices to ensure your device is recognized.
    • Type adb reboot edl. Your screen should go black.
  2. Hardware Method (If the device is bricked or ADB is not working):
    • Turn off the device completely.
    • Press and hold Volume Up + Volume Down simultaneously.
    • While holding the buttons, plug the USB cable into your PC. The device should vibrate briefly and show a black screen (EDL).

Step 2: Using the MSM Tool

  1. Install Drivers: Once in EDL mode, your PC should recognize a new device called “Qualcomm HS-USB 9008” in Device Manager. If not, manually install the OnePlus USB drivers.
  2. Run MSM Tool: Run the MSM Download Tool executable as Administrator.
  3. Identify Your Device: The tool should automatically detect the device (it might say “OnePlus Ace 5 Pro” or “OnePlus 13R”).
  4. Select the ROM: Click “Enum” to see available ROMs. Select the Global OxygenOS 15/16 version. If you have the ROM file (.ops or .ozip), click “Import” and locate the file.
  5. Start the Flash: Check the “Clean All” or “Clean All and Lock” option. “Clean All” is generally safer if you intend to keep the bootloader unlocked or plan to flash custom recoveries later. “Clean All and Lock” locks the bootloader, which is safer for passing SafetyNet but may trip the warranty in some regions.
  6. Verify and Flash: Click “Start”. The progress bar will move slowly. Do not disconnect the cable or interrupt the process. This can take 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: First Boot

Once the tool says “Flash Complete” or “Succeed”, the device will automatically reboot. The first boot (post-flash boot) can take a significant amount of time (up to 20-30 minutes). Do not panic; just let it sit.

Method 2: Flashing via TWRP/OrangeFox Custom Recovery

If you prefer a more hands-on approach or the MSM Tool is unavailable, you can flash OxygenOS 15/16 via a custom recovery like TWRP or OrangeFox. This method requires unlocking the bootloader first.

Step 1: Unlock the Bootloader

  1. Go to Settings > About Phone and tap on “Build Number” 7 times to enable Developer Options.
  2. Go to Settings > System > Developer Options.
  3. Enable OEM Unlocking and USB Debugging.
  4. Connect your phone to the PC. Open a command window and type: adb reboot bootloader
  5. Once in Fastboot mode, unlock the bootloader by typing: fastboot oem unlock (Note: This command will wipe your data).

Step 2: Installing Custom Recovery

  1. Download the TWRP/OrangeFox image for PKR110.
  2. While in Fastboot mode, flash the recovery: fastboot flash recovery <recovery_filename.img>
  3. Boot into recovery immediately to prevent the stock OS from overwriting the custom recovery: fastboot boot <recovery_filename.img>

Step 3: Flashing the OxygenOS Zip

  1. Once in the TWRP/OrangeFox interface, tap on Wipe.
  2. Swipe to Factory Reset. This is mandatory to avoid conflicts between ColorOS and OxygenOS.
  3. Go back to the main menu and tap Install.
  4. Navigate to the location where you saved the OxygenOS 15/16 Zip file (you may need to transfer it via MTP or ADB Sideload).
    • ADB Sideload Method: On your PC, type adb sideload <rom_name.zip> while the phone is in recovery.
  5. Swipe to confirm the flash.
  6. Once finished, tap Wipe Cache/Dalvik and swipe to wipe.
  7. Tap Reboot System.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a perfect guide, things can go wrong. Here are solutions to common problems encountered when flashing OxygenOS 15/16 on the OnePlus Ace 5 Pro.

1. Device Stuck on Bootloop

If the device endlessly restarts, it usually indicates a failed flash or a corrupted file.

2. No Network or SIM Card Issues

This is common when switching from Chinese ColorOS to Global OxygenOS due to different modem configurations.

3. Google Play Integrity / SafetyNet Fails

If your bootloader is unlocked (which it will be if you used Method 2), Google’s integrity checks might fail.

4. “This Device is Unlocked” Warning on Boot

This is normal if you have an unlocked bootloader. To remove this warning, you will need to flash a custom kernel or use a Magisk module designed to remove the warning text.

Post-Flash Optimization and Safety

Once you have successfully flashed OxygenOS 15/16, your work isn’t entirely done. To ensure the best performance and stability, we recommend the following steps:

Rooting with Magisk

For ultimate control over your device, we recommend rooting with Magisk. This allows you to passroot-sensitive apps (using Shamiko), remove bloatware systemlessly, and install modules from the Magisk Modules Repository.

  1. Extract the boot.img from the OxygenOS firmware payload.
  2. Patch it using the Magisk app.
  3. Flash the patched image via fastboot flash boot <patched_boot.img>.

Checking Widevine L1

After flashing the Global ROM, check if your Widevine L1 certification is restored. Open apps like DRM Info or Netflix to verify. It usually comes back automatically with the Global firmware.

Conclusion

Flashing OxygenOS 15/16 on the OnePlus Ace 5 Pro (PKR110) is a transformative process that turns a region-locked device into a globally capable flagship. By following our detailed guide, utilizing the MSM Download Tool or Custom Recovery, and adhering to the prerequisites, you can safely navigate this technical procedure.

We have provided the roadmap to liberate your device from the confines of ColorOS. Whether you choose the automated safety of the MSM Tool or the flexibility of TWRP, the end result is a pristine, high-performance OxygenOS experience. For further customization, rooting, and optimization, remember to utilize the resources available at Magisk Modules, where we provide the tools you need to unlock the full potential of your Android device. Proceed with caution, follow the steps precisely, and enjoy your newly flashed OnePlus Ace 5 Pro.

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