Scenario: User flashed wrong recovery → device shows no signs of life. Procedure:
| Tool | Requirement | Bootloader Status | Best For | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | HiSuite | Phone must boot to OS | Locked/Unlocked | Normal updates | | Fastboot | Unlocked Bootloader | Unlocked | Flashing images | | IDT/HiSilicon Tool | Testpoint or short circuit | Locked OK | Hard brick repair |
The magic of the HiSilicon Flash Tool is that it works even if the bootloader is locked. It acts as a "backdoor" into the processor's ROM. huawei hisilicon flash tool
There is no "official" website. Versions range from v1.0.0 to v5.0.8. Look for version 5.0.8 or higher for Kirin 980/990 support.
The Huawei HiSilicon Flash Tool (often referred to as IDT.exe, HiTool, or BootLoader Tool) is a proprietary, low-level utility designed for direct memory access and programming of Huawei devices powered by HiSilicon chipsets (Kirin, Balong, and LTE modems). Unlike standard Android fastboot or recovery flashing, this tool operates at the Processor ROM Boot Mode level (UART or USB 1.1 Download Mode). It is primarily used for factory programming, debricking hard-bricked devices, flashing baseband firmware, and forensic data extraction. Scenario: User flashed wrong recovery → device shows
Key Finding: The tool bypasses all high-level Android security (bootloader lock, DM-Verity) by communicating directly with the BootROM, making it the most powerful—and dangerous—utility for HiSilicon hardware.
If you cannot get the tool to work, consider: Note: Devices with the Kirin 710A or very
On chips prior to Kirin 970 (e.g., Kirin 960/955), the tool exploits a known BootROM USB enumeration vulnerability (CVE-2017-17533 equivalent). It does not require signed images. For Kirin 980+:
Important: The tool does not work on all Kirin devices. Generally, it supports:
Note: Devices with the Kirin 710A or very late Kirin 9000 (Android 12+) may have encrypted boot ROMs that block the tool. Always check XDA Forums for your specific model number (e.g., VOG-L29, ELE-L29).
Report ID: HIC-2025-04 Subject: Firmware Flashing Utility for HiSilicon Kirin/Balong SoCs Target Audience: Embedded Systems Engineers, Mobile Device Forensics, Service Technicians