Updating to Android 16 on S25 Plus Exynos with Frija: The Ultimate Guide

Understanding the Prerequisites for Samsung Firmware Updates

Updating a flagship device like the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus requires a meticulous approach, particularly when dealing with the Exynos chipset variant. In the Android enthusiast community, the goal is often to achieve a clean, bloat-free installation or to restore a device to stock firmware before modifying the system. This guide details the professional methodology for utilizing Frija, a widely respected Samsung firmware downloader, to acquire the necessary files for the Android 16 update. We operate under the assumption that users seek a manual update process rather than waiting for the gradual Over-The-Air (OTA) rollout, which can often be staggered by region and carrier.

When preparing for a manual update, the integrity of the files is paramount. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus (Exynos) operates on a system architecture that demands exact firmware matching. Unlike OTA updates which patch existing files, a full firmware flash via tools like Odin replaces the entire system partition. This ensures that no residual code from previous versions remains, providing a pristine environment for Android 16. Our process focuses on acquiring the correct binary through Frija to ensure compatibility with the device’s specific model number (SM-S936B for the international Exynos variant).

Before initiating any download, we must verify the device model. Flashing firmware intended for a Snapdragon variant or a different model number (e.g., SM-S938U) onto an Exynos S25 Plus will result in a hard brick. Therefore, navigating to Settings > About Phone > Model Number is the first critical step. Once the model is confirmed, we can proceed with using Frija to locate the exact firmware build required for the Android 16 transition.

What is Frija and Why We Use It for Firmware Management

Frija is an essential utility in the Samsung flashing ecosystem. It functions as a firmware download manager that communicates directly with Samsung’s servers. While Samsung offers OTA updates, power users and technicians often require the full stock firmware package (BL, AP, CP, and CSC files) for various reasons, including unbricking devices, removing carrier bloatware, or performing a clean flash prior to rooting with Magisk.

The primary advantage of Frija is its ability to bypass the sluggish speed of Samsung’s official download servers. It utilizes a multi-threaded downloading engine to fetch the firmware at maximum bandwidth. Furthermore, Frija validates the file signature and ensures the user downloads the correct region-specific firmware. For the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus Exynos, using Frija allows us to retrieve the latest Android 16 firmware (identified by build numbers starting with S936BXXU…) directly from the official CDN, ensuring file authenticity and security.

In the context of our workflow, Frija is the bridge between the official Samsung database and the local machine where we will later use Odin. It automates the tedious process of searching through third-party repositories, which often host outdated or modified files. By using Frija, we guarantee that the firmware we download matches the CSC (Country Specific Code) required for features like Samsung Pay and Secure Folder to function correctly post-update.

The Relationship Between Frija, Odin, and Android 16

It is vital to understand that Frija does not flash the firmware; it merely downloads it. The actual installation is performed using Odin, a Windows-based utility developed by Samsung for internal use. The synergy between these tools is the industry standard for manual Samsung updates.

1. Frija (Download Phase): Retrieves the encrypted zip file containing the Android 16 image.
2. Odin (Flash Phase): Decompresses the files and writes them to the device partitions via Download Mode.
3. Device (Execution Phase): Reboots, initializes Android 16, and optimizes applications.

For the S25 Plus Exynos, this workflow is particularly stable because the Exynos chipset utilizes standard partition layouts that Odin recognizes instantly.

Step-by-Step Guide: Downloading Android 16 via Frija

To initiate the update process, we must first configure Frija correctly. This phase requires attention to detail to avoid downloading the wrong firmware variant.

Configuring Frija for the S25 Plus Exynos

Launch the Frija application on your Windows PC. In the search bar, you must enter the exact model number of your device. For the Exynos version of the S25 Plus, this is typically SM-S936B. If you possess the dual-SIM variant, the model may be SM-S936B/DS.

Next, enter the CSC code. This code determines the region and the pre-installed software. For example, BTU represents the United Kingdom (unbranded), while DBT represents Germany. If you are unsure of your current CSC, you can check it by dialing *#1234# in the phone dialer. For the best performance and widest compatibility with Android 16 features, we recommend using the BTU or DBT firmware, as these are unbranded and free from carrier restrictions.

Once the model and CSC are entered, click the search icon. Frija will query the Samsung OTA server and display the available firmware versions. You should look for the entry labeled with the latest Android 16 build. The version string will look similar to S936BXXU1BXA1. The 1 in the middle indicates the major Android version update (Android 16 in this context).

Select the correct version and click the Download button. Frija will ask for a destination folder. We recommend creating a dedicated folder named S25_Plus_Android_16 to keep the files organized. The download size is typically around 6GB to 8GB, depending on the compression level.

Verifying Firmware Integrity

After the download is complete, Frija usually displays a “Download Complete” message. However, as a professional practice, we must verify the file integrity. Frija extracts the firmware automatically into a folder structure containing five core files:

1. BL_…tar.md5: Bootloader file.
2. AP_…tar.md5: Application Processor (System Partition).
3. CP_…tar.md5: Modem/Radio.
4. CSC_…tar.md5: Country Specific Code (Wipes Data).
5. HOME_CSC_…tar.md5: Country Specific Code (Preserves Data).

For a clean update to Android 16, we strictly recommend using the standard CSC rather than HOME_CSC. Using the standard CSC ensures that old cache and residual data from previous Android versions are completely wiped, preventing stability issues.

Preparing the Device for the Android 16 Update

With the firmware downloaded via Frija, we now turn our attention to the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus. Preparing the device is as important as the download process itself. A failed flash is often caused by improper device preparation rather than faulty files.

Backing Up Critical Data

While our goal is a clean update, accidental data loss is always a risk. We advise using Samsung Smart Switch to perform a full backup of the device to a PC. This captures contacts, messages, app data, and system settings. Additionally, media files (photos and videos) should be backed up to an external storage device or a cloud service like Samsung Cloud or Google Drive.

Enabling OEM Unlocking and Developer Options

To allow Odin to communicate with the bootloader, we must enable OEM Unlocking.

1. Navigate to Settings > About Phone > Software Information.
2. Tap on Build Number seven times until the message “Developer mode has been enabled” appears.
3. Return to the main settings menu and enter Developer Options.
4. Locate OEM Unlocking and toggle it on. (Note: This option may be greyed out for the first 72 hours on some devices due to Samsung’s security policy).
5. Also, enable USB Debugging, though this is not strictly required for a standard Odin flash, it is useful for troubleshooting.

Booting into Download Mode

With the files ready and the device prepped, we proceed to the flashing environment.

1. Power off the S25 Plus completely.
2. Connect the device to the PC using a high-quality USB-C cable. We recommend using a rear motherboard USB 3.0 port for stability.
3. Press and hold Volume Up + Volume Down simultaneously.
4. While holding both buttons, connect the USB cable to the phone.
5. The device will vibrate and show the Warning Screen.
6. Press Volume Up once to enter Download Mode.

At this stage, the PC should recognize the device. You can verify this by opening Device Manager and looking for Samsung Mobile USB Composite Device under the USB controllers section.

Flashing Android 16 with Odin

Odin is the execution phase of our update strategy. We use the latest version of Odin (currently v3.14.4 or newer) to ensure compatibility with the S25 Plus and the Android 16 binary structure.

Configuring Odin for the S25 Plus

Launch Odin as an Administrator. You will see a blue box labeled ID:COM. Once the device is in Download Mode and connected, this box should turn blue and display 0:[COMX], indicating a successful connection.

We will now load the files downloaded by Frija into the corresponding slots:

1. BL Slot: Click the BL button and select the BL_...tar.md5 file.
2. AP Slot: Click the AP button and select the AP_...tar.md5 file. (Note: This is the largest file and may take a few seconds to load).
3. CP Slot: Click the CP button and select the CP_...tar.md5 file.
4. CSC Slot: Click the CSC button and select the CSC_...tar.md5 file. Crucial: Do not select the HOME_CSC file if you want a clean update.

Odin Options and Settings

For the S25 Plus Exynos, we recommend leaving the default Odin options checked:

• Auto Reboot: Checked.
• F. Reset Time: Checked.
• Re-Partition: Unchecked (unless you are fixing a specific partition issue).

Ensure that Secure Boot is not checked, as this is for specific engineering tasks. Once the files are loaded and the ID:COM box is blue, we are ready to flash.

Initiating the Flash Process

Click the Start button in Odin. The process is automated. You will see a progress bar on the device screen and a log in the Odin window. The AP file takes the longest to verify and extract.

Do not disconnect the cable during this process. Interrupting the connection to the AP partition can result in a hard brick. The entire process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes depending on the speed of your PC and the USB connection.

Once the flash is complete, Odin will display “PASS!” in green, and the device will automatically reboot.

Post-Update Optimization for Android 16

The first boot after an Android version update is always slower than usual. This is normal. The system is performing a “File-Based Encryption” (FBE) conversion and optimizing the ART (Android Runtime) for the new OS. This may take 10-20 minutes.

Initial Setup and Google Play Services

Upon booting, you will be greeted with the Android 16 setup screen. Since we used the standard CSC, the device will be wiped. You must log in with your Google Account and Samsung Account. Ensure that you allow all permissions for Google Play Services to ensure background functionality and location accuracy.

Verifying the Build Number

To confirm that the update was successful, navigate to Settings > About Phone > Software Information. Look for the Kernel Version and Build Number. The Build Number should match the firmware version you downloaded via Frija. If it does, the update was successful.

Removing Bloatware via ADB

Since we flashed the full stock firmware, the device may contain carrier-specific or region-specific bloatware. While Frija allows us to download unbranded (BTU) firmware, Samsung still includes its own suite of apps. We can use Android Debug Bridge (ADB) to remove these without needing root access.

Connect the phone to the PC, enable USB Debugging, and open a command prompt in the platform-tools directory. Use commands like: adb shell pm uninstall -k --user 0 com.samsung.android.bixby.wakeup However, proceed with caution. Removing critical system apps can cause instability.

Magisk Modules and Rooting Considerations

Our website, Magisk Modules, is dedicated to enhancing the Android experience. After updating the S25 Plus to Android 16 using Frija and Odin, you may wish to regain root access. Because the update replaces the entire system partition, any previous root modifications will be lost.

Preparing for Root on Android 16

To root the S25 Plus on Android 16, you must first patch the AP tar file using the Magisk app.

1. Extract the AP_...tar.md5 file from the firmware folder downloaded by Frija.
2. Transfer the AP file to the phone’s internal storage.
3. Open the Magisk app and choose “Install” > “Select and Patch a File”.
4. Select the AP tar file. Magisk will create a patched file (e.g., magisk_patched.tar).

Flashing the Patched AP

Once the patched file is created, transfer it back to your PC. Open Odin again:

1. Load the original BL, CP, and CSC files.
2. Load the patched AP file instead of the original.
3. Flash using Odin.

This method ensures that the S25 Plus is updated to Android 16 and rooted simultaneously. After the flash, simply install the Magisk app, and you will have full root access.

Using Magisk Modules

With the device rooted on Android 16, you can now explore the Magisk Module Repository. Here, you can download modules to customize the system, improve battery life, or enable advanced features not available in stock Android 16. Always ensure that the modules you install are compatible with the latest Android version to avoid boot loops.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a meticulous process, issues can arise. Here are solutions to common problems encountered during the update to Android 16.

Odin Fails at SetupConnection

If Odin gets stuck at SetupConnection, this is usually a driver issue. Solution: Uninstall Samsung USB drivers via Device Manager. Download the latest official Samsung USB drivers and reinstall. Ensure you are using a USB 2.0 port if USB 3.0 causes issues.

Bootloop After Flashing

If the device is stuck in a boot loop after the “PASS” message in Odin, it is likely due to a mismatched file or a faulty download. Solution: Repeat the download process using Frija. Verify the MD5 checksum of the files. Perform a factory reset from Recovery Mode (Volume Up + Power) after re-flashing.

Knox Warranty Trip

Flashing firmware via Odin using Frija-downloaded files (especially if patched with Magisk) will trip the Knox Warranty Bit (0x1). This is irreversible and will void the manufacturer’s warranty. However, flashing official stock firmware (non-rooted) usually does not trip Knox, provided the files are genuine.

Conclusion

Updating the Samsung Galaxy S25 Plus Exynos to Android 16 via Frija is a robust method for obtaining the latest software features immediately. By utilizing Frija for downloading and Odin for flashing, we ensure a clean, stable, and optimized system. This process not only updates the OS but also provides a fresh foundation for custom modifications via the Magisk Modules repository. Whether you are a casual user seeking the latest features or a developer preparing a rooted environment, this workflow represents the gold standard in Samsung firmware management.