The scatter file is a configuration file (written in XML or a structured text format) that tells SP Flash Tool how to flash firmware (ROM) onto a MediaTek (MTK) Android device. It describes the partition layout of the device's flash memory (eMMC / UFS).
Note: Older versions used a
.txtscatter file. Newer SP Flash Tool versions (V5.x+) use an XML-based scatter file (e.g.,MTxxxx_Android_scatter.xml).
| Tool | File Type | Purpose |
|------|-----------|---------|
| SP Flash Tool | .txt / .xml (scatter) | MediaTek devices |
| Odin (Samsung) | .pit + .tar.md5 | Exynos/Qualcomm Samsung |
| MiFlash (Xiaomi) | .bat + flash_all.sh | Qualcomm Xiaomi |
| Fastboot | No config (manual commands) | All semi-modern Android devices |
Unlike Odin’s binary PIT format, SP Flash Tool’s XML scatter file is plain text. This makes it more flexible but also easier to corrupt accidentally.
An XML scatter file (often with a .txt or .xml extension) is a human-readable, structured document that describes the partition layout of a MediaTek device’s flash memory (eMMC or UFS). It tells the SP Flash Tool exactly where to write each firmware component: the preloader, bootloader (LK), kernel (boot.img), system, vendor, user data, and more.
Sometimes you need to modify the scatter file manually, for example:
In the context of SP Flash Tool, the Scatter File usually has an .xml extension (or sometimes .txt). While the flash tool technically supports text-based scatter files, modern MediaTek firmware almost always comes with XML-based Scatter Files.
Think of the XML file as a roadmap or a manifest for your firmware.
A Stock ROM consists of many different partitions (system, boot, recovery, logo, nvram, etc.). These partitions are stored as raw image files (like system.img, boot.img). The XML file tells SP Flash Tool three critical things for every single file:
Without this XML file, SP Flash Tool would not know where to place the boot.img file or how large the partition is. It acts as the bridge between the raw files on your PC and the hardware architecture of your MediaTek device.
The XML file for SP Flash Tool—properly called the scatter file—is the heart of any MediaTek flashing operation. It is not just a configuration file; it is a precise map of your device’s memory. Respect its structure, never borrow it from a different device, and always keep a verified backup from your original firmware.
Whether you are an Android modder, a repair technician, or a developer, mastering the scatter file will save you from countless “soft brick” scares and empower you to perform advanced operations like repartitioning or custom ROM installation.
This template provides a basic outline. For detailed configurations and specific options, refer to the SP Flash Tool documentation and device-specific guides.
The midday sun beat down on the corrugated metal roof of the repair shop, but Elias didn’t notice. His attention was entirely consumed by the "dead" smartphone lying on his workbench. It was a high-end clone device, brought in by a frantic customer who had tried to "optimize" the operating system and ended up with a shiny, expensive paperweight.
The screen was black. No vibration, no recovery mode, no logo. It was what technicians referred to as a "hard brick."
Elias wiped sweat from his forehead and minimized the confusing array of error messages on his computer screen. He knew the hardware was fine; the customer had simply wiped the partition that told the phone how to turn on. To fix it, he needed to speak to the phone’s soul directly. He needed the SP Flash Tool.
But SP Flash Tool was like a high-powered rifle: dangerous without the right ammunition. It needed a set of instructions—a map of the phone’s internal architecture—to know where to write the data. It needed an XML file.
The Search for the Map
"Every phone speaks a different dialect," Elias muttered to himself, opening his database of firmware archives.
The SP Flash Tool, primarily designed for MediaTek (MTK) chipsets, relied heavily on a specific file format to operate: the Scatter File. This was essentially a text-based map, usually carrying the .txt or .xml extension, though technicians always referred to it simply as the "Scatter."
Elias navigated through folders dated years back. If he used the wrong Scatter file—for example, one intended for a similar but slightly different model—he risked rendering the phone unrecoverable. The XML file was crucial because it defined the memory layout. It told the tool: This block of memory is for the bootloader; this block is for the recovery image; this block is for the Android operating system.
He finally found a archived folder matching the device's codename. Inside, amidst massive data files like system.img and boot.img, sat a modest, 2KB file: MT6735_Android_scatter.txt.
Anatomy of the XML
Elias right-clicked and opened the file with his text editor. To the uninitiated, it looked like gibberish, but to Elias, it was the blueprint of the device.
He highlighted a section:
<partition_index index="1">
<partition_name>preloader</partition_name>
<file_name>preloader.bin</file_name>
<is_download>true</is_download>
<type>SV</type>
<start_addr>0x0</start_addr>
</partition_index>
This was the magic of the XML for SP Flash Tool. It wasn’t just a list of files; it was a coordinate system.
Elias scanned the list. He didn't want to flash the entire system today; that would take too long and might trip the phone's security checks. He only needed to repair the preloader and the lk (Linux Kernel) partitions to get the device to boot again.
The Procedure
He launched the SP Flash Tool. The interface was sparse, utilitarian, and famously unforgiving. He clicked the "Scatter-loading" button. xml file for sp flash tool
A file browser popped up. Elias selected the MT6735_Android_scatter.txt file he had just inspected.
Instantly, the tool populated a long list of checkboxes. It had read the XML. It knew the phone's layout. Elias checked only the boxes corresponding to the damaged partitions. He ensured the "Download Only" option was selected in the dropdown menu—a vital safety precaution. If he had selected "Format All + Download," the XML would have guided the tool to wipe the entire memory structure, deleting the user's photos and contacts.
"Alright," Elias whispered. "Let's see if the map is accurate."
He turned off the phone completely. He connected the USB cable to the PC but left the phone end unplugged. He hit the "Download" button on the SP Flash Tool. The progress bar turned red, waiting for a signal.
Elias plugged the cable into the dead phone.
For a second, silence. Then—a distinctive "ding" from the PC. The tool had detected the Mediatek USB VCOM port. The progress bar turned yellow, then purple. The XML file was now orchestrating a complex symphony, taking the raw binary data and laying it brick-by-brick into the precise memory addresses defined in the code.
The Result
A minute later, a green circle appeared on the screen with the word "Download Ok."
Elias unplugged the phone. He took a deep breath and pressed the power button.
Three seconds passed. Then, the screen flickered to life. The logo of the phone manufacturer glowed brightly against the black background. The phone vibrated.
Elias exhaled, his shoulders dropping. The phone was cured.
The Takeaway
As he cleaned up his workspace, Elias thought about the humble file that had saved the day. Most people obsessed over the hardware or the version of Android. But technicians knew the truth. Without the XML/Scatter file, the SP Flash Tool was just a blank canvas. The XML was the translator, the architect, and the instruction manual all rolled into one. It turned a chaotic pile of data into a functioning, living device.
He copied the working firmware folder to his "Known Good" drive. He knew he would see another bricked phone tomorrow, and he would need that map again.
You're looking for information on creating or using an XML file for the SP Flash Tool.
The SP Flash Tool is a popular software used for flashing firmware on Android devices, particularly those with MediaTek (MTK) processors. An XML file, in this context, is used to define the scatter file, which contains information about the layout of the firmware and where it should be written on the device.
Here's a basic outline of what an XML file for SP Flash Tool might look like:
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<scatter>
<part name="preloader" offset="0x0" size="0x100000" type="bin"/>
<part name="loader" offset="0x100000" size="0x200000" type="bin"/>
<part name="boot" offset="0x300000" size="0x300000" type="bin"/>
<!-- More parts... -->
</scatter>
In this example, the XML file defines a scatter with multiple parts, each representing a component of the firmware:
To use an XML file with the SP Flash Tool:
Keep in mind that creating or editing an XML file for the SP Flash Tool requires technical knowledge and should be done with caution, as incorrect configurations can brick your device.
Do you have a specific XML file or device you're working with? I'd be happy to help with more detailed information or troubleshooting steps.
In the context of the SmartPhone (SP) Flash Tool, the XML file (specifically flash.xml) is a configuration file introduced with SP Flash Tool v6. It serves as a replacement for the older scatter.txt files used in v5 and earlier versions. Key Functions of the XML File
Device Mapping: It defines the physical structure and memory layout of a MediaTek (MTK) device's storage.
Flashing Instructions: It contains specific commands and configurations that tell the tool how to handle various partitions during the flashing process.
Version Compatibility: SP Flash Tool v6 strictly requires these XML files; it cannot natively load the older .txt scatter files. XML vs. Scatter Files Older Versions (v5) Version 6 (v6) File Format Plain text (mtk_scatter.txt) XML (flash.xml) Tool Requirement Required for all v5 operations Required for all v6 operations Portability Platform-dependent behaviors Better cross-platform consistency (e.g., Linux) How to Use the XML File in SP Flash Tool v6 Launch the Tool: Open the SP Flash Tool v6 executable.
Load the Config: Instead of looking for "Scatter-loading," use the "Download XML file" button.
Select the File: Navigate to your firmware folder and select the flash.xml or similarly named configuration file.
Connect Device: Once loaded, click "Download" and connect your device while holding the designated boot key (usually Volume Down or Volume Up). Troubleshooting Common Issues The scatter file is a configuration file (written
In the world of MediaTek device flashing, the XML file is the modern blueprint that tells the SP Flash Tool exactly how to rebuild a phone’s software. While older versions used .txt scatter files, newer versions—like SP Flash Tool v6—often require a flash.xml to map out where each part of the firmware (like the system, boot, and recovery images) belongs on the device’s internal memory. The Story of the Silent Phoenix
Once, there was a smartphone named Phoenix that had "bricked"—it was stuck in a loop, unable to wake up, its screen as black as midnight. Its owner, a young developer named Leo, knew the hardware was fine, but the "soul" of the phone (its firmware) had been corrupted.
Leo opened his PC and launched the SP Flash Tool. He didn't just need any software; he needed the exact map for Phoenix's brain. He found the flash.xml file—a tiny text document that held the keys to the kingdom. This file contained "tags" that acted like street signs, telling the tool: "Put the system files here," and "Keep the bootloader there".
[Revised] How to use SP Flash tool to flash Mediatek firmware
The transition from traditional text-based "scatter files" to XML-based configurations
represents a significant shift in how MediaTek (MTK) devices are managed with SP Flash Tool , particularly starting with v6.x series CHUWI | Official Forum
While there isn't a single "academic paper" in the traditional sense, several technical guides and documentation resources provide deep insights into this structure. 1. The v6 Evolution: Scatter.txt vs. Flash.xml For years, MTK devices used Android_scatter.txt
files to map partition memory. However, newer MediaTek chipsets (typically those released after 2021) and the updated SP Flash Tool v6 have transitioned to a structured XML format. CARE Toolkit Compatibility:
Versions like SP Flash Tool v6.20+ no longer support the standard scatter files. Functionality: In v6, the "Scatter-loading" button often expects a
file, which contains more complex metadata including properties, IDs, and certificate information for modern secure boot protocols. CHUWI | Official Forum 2. Key Technical Resources & Guides MediaTek Scatter File Overview (PDF): While often hosted on platforms like
, these documents outline the configuration for various partitions, specifying file names, start addresses, and sizes. Technical Troubleshooting Guides: Documentation on
provides peer-reviewed community consensus on managing these XML files, including how to handle errors when a tool specifically requests an XML format that is not present in older firmware packages. Automated Tools: Projects like
are frequently used to bridge the gap between raw ROM dumps and generating the necessary scatter/XML files for recovery. CHUWI | Official Forum 3. XML Structures in Flashing Environments
The move toward XML allows for better validation and automated parsing. Similar XML structures are seen in other flashing tools:
HiPad Pro stock firmware - mtk /qualcomm - CHUWI | Official Forum
SP Flash Tool primarily uses scatter files (.txt) for flashing MediaTek devices, but starting with Version 6, it introduced support for XML configuration files (often named flash.xml). Key Differences Between Versions
SP Flash Tool V5: The most common version. It strictly requires a Scatter file (e.g., MT67xx_Android_scatter.txt) to map the device's partitions.
SP Flash Tool V6: This version specifically asks for a Download-XML file instead of the traditional scatter text file. This format is often found in newer firmware packages or specific manufacturer builds like those for Xiaomi or Lenovo tablets. How to Use the XML File
Open SP Flash Tool V6: Ensure you are using the correct version, as V5 will not recognize XML files.
Load the XML: Look for the "Download-XML" or "Scatter-loading" field and click "Choose." Navigate to your firmware folder and select the flash.xml file.
Authentication (Auth) File: Newer devices using XML often require an Authentication file (.auth) to be loaded alongside the XML to bypass secure boot protections.
Flashing: Once loaded, the tool will populate the partition list. Select "Download Only" and click the Download button before connecting your powered-off device. Common Issues
Compatibility: You generally cannot convert a V5 scatter file to a V6 XML file easily. If your firmware only has a .txt scatter file, you should use SP Flash Tool V5.
Missing File: If your tool is asking for an XML but you only have a scatter file, download a V5 version of the tool instead.
Are you trying to flash a specific device model, or do you need help finding the correct firmware that contains this XML file?
[Revised] How to use SP Flash tool to flash Mediatek firmware
Here is proper, structured content explaining the XML file used by SP Flash Tool, specifically the scatter file (which is XML-based in modern versions).
Title:
Efficient Firmware Flashing on MediaTek Devices: A Study of SP Flash Tool Configuration and Partition Management Note: Older versions used a
Abstract:
The proliferation of MediaTek system-on-chips (SoCs) in low-to-mid-range smartphones necessitates reliable flashing tools for firmware updates, unbricking, and custom ROM installation. This paper evaluates the Smart Phone Flash Tool (SP Flash Tool) from a systems engineering perspective. We analyze the structure of scatter files—configuration descriptors that define partition layouts (preloader, boot, system, userdata, etc.) and memory regions (eMMC/UFS). Through empirical testing on MT6765-based devices, we identify common failure modes (e.g., mismatch between scatter file and hardware partition table, DA (Download Agent) compatibility issues). We also compare the tool’s behavior across Windows and Linux environments. Our findings suggest that while SP Flash Tool is robust for factory and repair workflows, the lack of standardized XML-based configuration (often proprietary plaintext formats) introduces risks for third-party developers. We propose a schema for an extensible XML-based configuration to improve validation and tool interoperability.
Keywords: SP Flash Tool, MediaTek, firmware flashing, scatter file, embedded systems
Would you like me to:
The use of XML files in the SP Flash Tool environment primarily marks a transition in how MediaTek (MTK) device firmware is structured and flashed, particularly with the introduction of SP Flash Tool Version 6. Historically, these tools relied on text-based "scatter files" (e.g., MTxxxx_Android_scatter.txt), but newer firmware versions and tool revisions utilize XML to define the storage layout, chip configuration, and flashing instructions. 1. Functional Purpose of the XML File
In SP Flash Tool V6, the XML file (often named flash.xml or similar) serves as the configuration backbone. It contains:
Chip Identification: Specifies the target MediaTek processor (e.g., MT6573).
Storage Mapping: Defines whether the device uses NAND, eMMC, or UFS storage.
Partition List: A detailed manifest of the partitions to be flashed (system, boot, recovery, etc.), including their specific memory addresses or index values.
Download Agent (DA): References the necessary .bin files (like MTK_AllInOne_DA.bin) required to communicate with the device's bootloader. 2. XML vs. Scatter Files Feature Legacy (V5 and below) Modern (V6 and above) File Format Text-based Scatter (.txt) eXtensible Markup Language (.xml) Primary File MTxxxx_Android_scatter.txt flash.xml Flexibility Rigid, flat structure Highly structured, supporting complex config Usage Loaded via "Scatter-loading" button Replaces scatter file in newer firmwares 3. Usage and Troubleshooting
To use an XML file for flashing, you typically follow these steps:
Launch the Tool: Open SP Flash Tool V6 and ensure it is running with administrative privileges.
Select XML Config: Instead of looking for a .txt scatter file, navigate to the Download tab and locate the flash.xml provided in your firmware folder.
Connection: Power off the device and connect it via USB. The tool uses MediaTek VCOM Drivers to establish a connection. Common Errors:
Error 1040 (S_UNSUPPORTED_OPERATION): Occurs if the XML configuration does not match the device's chip.
S_COM_PORT_OPEN_FAIL: Usually indicates a driver or cable issue. 4. Technical Configuration (Sample Structure)
A standard console_mode.xml or flashing XML includes specific tags to automate the process:
auto-format-flag="FormatAll". SP_Flash_Tools/SP_Flash_Tool/console_mode.xml at master
48 lines (48 loc) · 1.86 KB. Open symbols panel. < flashtool-config version="2.0"> MT6573 NAND MTK_AllInOne_DA.bin /proj/mtk81019/ GitHub gesangtome/SP_Flash_Tool_Linux: MediaTek Smart ... - GitHub
Table_title: gesangtome/SP_Flash_Tool_Linux Table_content: header: | Name | Name | Last commit message | Last commit date | row: | GitHub MTK Android (Sp flash tool ) tutorial
The XML file for SP Flash Tool is a configuration document introduced primarily in SP Flash Tool Version 6 (v6.x) to replace or supplement the traditional text-based scatter files used in earlier versions. It acts as a memory map, instructing the tool on where to write specific firmware components to a MediaTek (MTK) device's internal storage. Key Functions of the XML File
In the modern flashing environment, the XML file serves several critical purposes:
Partition Mapping: Like a scatter file, it defines the start address and size of every partition (e.g., preloader, boot, recovery, system) on the device.
Compatibility with V6 Tools: While older SP Flash Tool versions (v5 and below) rely exclusively on .txt scatter files, Version 6 requires a flash.xml or similar XML file to load the firmware.
Automation: When loaded, it automatically maps the corresponding image files (.bin, .img) located in the same firmware folder to their respective slots in the tool. How to Use an XML File in SP Flash Tool v6
If your stock firmware contains an XML file instead of a .txt scatter file, follow these steps to use it:
Launch the Tool: Open the SP Flash Tool v6 executable as an administrator on your PC.
Select the XML File: Navigate to the "Download" tab. Look for the "Download-XML" field and click the "Choose" button. Browse to your firmware folder and select the flash.xml or device-specific XML file.
Load Authentication (If Required): Many newer MediaTek devices use Secure Boot. You may need to load an Authentication File (.auth) by clicking "Choose" under the Authentication File option.
Set Flash Mode: The safest mode for most users is "Download Only." Avoid "Format All + Download" unless you are repairing a hard-bricked device, as this can erase critical IMEI and NVRAM data.
Begin Flashing: Click the "Download" button. Power off your device completely and connect it to the computer via USB. The tool should detect the device via the MediaTek VCOM drivers and begin the process.
<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?>
<config version="V1.0">
<!-- General settings -->
<General>
<platform>MTxxxx</platform> <!-- Replace MTxxxx with your actual MediaTek chipset model, e.g., MT6763 -->
<project>YourProjectName</project> <!-- Replace with your project name if required -->
</General>
<!-- Scatter file settings -->
<ScatterFiles>
<file path="path/to/your/scatter.txt" />
</ScatterFiles>
<!-- Authentication settings -->
<Authentication>
<!-- DA (Download Agent) Auth settings -->
<DAAuth>
<enabled>1</enabled>
<auth_type>0</auth_type> <!-- Authentication type -->
<!-- You might need to specify more details here depending on your DA and auth requirements -->
</DAAuth>
<!-- Secure Boot settings -->
<SecureBoot>
<enabled>1</enabled>
<!-- You might need a key or signature file for secure boot, adjust according to your setup -->
<auth_key_path>path/to/auth_key.bin</auth_key_path>
</SecureBoot>
</Authentication>
<!-- Flashing options -->
<FlashOptions>
<format>1</format> <!-- 0 for no format, 1 for format, adjust as necessary -->
<!-- Specify which partitions to format, e.g., -->
<formatlist>
<!-- <partition>nand</partition> -->
</formatlist>
<reset>1</reset> <!-- 0 or 1, depending on if you want to reset the device after flashing -->
</FlashOptions>
<!-- Other settings if necessary -->
<Preloader> path/to/preloader.bin </Preloader>
<!-- Uboot, Logo, and other component paths can go here, based on your flashing needs -->
</config>