For the Amlogic S805, finding "new" firmware is less about official Android updates and more about community-driven builds that keep this older chipset functional. Because official support ended years ago, modern firmware usually takes the form of specialized Linux distributions like LibreELEC or Armbian. Recommended Modern Firmware Options

LibreELEC (Kodi-focused): This is the gold standard for turning an S805 box into a dedicated media center. Recent Legacy v9.2 LTS builds (based on Kodi 18.9) are still maintained by the community to ensure security and codec support.

Armbian (Desktop/Server-focused): If you want to use the box as a mini-PC or home server (e.g., Pi-hole), Armbian offers the most "current" Linux experience. Newer builds for S805-based devices like the OneCloud are often compatible.

ScottELEC: A specialized fork designed for retro gaming and media, which includes pre-configured RetroArch and Emulation Station. General Firmware Flashing Guide

Depending on your goals, there are two primary ways to update or change the firmware: Method 1: Local Update (Standard Android)

Use this if you have a .zip firmware file and want to stay on an Android-based system. Firmware Upgrade Guide for Amlogic devices - Ugoos

The Amlogic S805 is a legacy 32-bit quad-core processor commonly found in older "MXQ" style TV boxes. Because the official Android versions for these devices are outdated (often stuck on Android 4.4 KitKat), development has shifted toward custom Linux-based firmware like LibreELEC and Armbian to maintain modern functionality. Recent Firmware Options LibreELEC (Kodi-focused):

Legacy LTS Builds: Community developer dtech maintains legacy v9.2 Long-Term Support (LTS) builds for S805 devices.

Latest Release: LibreELEC v9.2.8.10 was released in July 2023, adding experimental driver support for specific Wi-Fi modules (RTL8723AS) and updating security packages like OpenSSL.

Capabilities: These builds allow older boxes to run Kodi 18.9 (Leia), providing a much smoother streaming experience than stock Android. Armbian (General Linux):

Recent Activity: Community builds for Armbian were updated as recently as May 2023, with discussions continuing into July 2024 regarding proper u-boot support.

Known Issues: Running Armbian on S805 often requires booting from an SD card rather than the internal eMMC to avoid accidental bricking, as there is no "universal" stable u-boot for all S805 variants. AlexELEC:

Focuses on repurposing older S805/S812 hardware specifically for Kodi-based media centers. Installation & Troubleshooting

For the Amlogic S805, current development has moved away from official Android stock firmware toward community-maintained projects like LibreELEC-AML and Armbian.  Modern Firmware Projects (2024-2026) 

LibreELEC v9.2.8.19 (LTS): Released in December 2025, this is the most actively updated firmware for S805 devices like the MXQ "all black". It focuses on running Kodi as a dedicated OS, supporting 10/100 Mbps LAN and HDMI sound.

Armbian (Mainline Kernel): Recent community builds (2023–2024) successfully run Kernel 6.1.27 on S805 hardware. While these are powerful for server tasks (like Pi-hole or VPNs), they often lack HDMI video output and Wi-Fi stability.

AlexELEC: A specialized fork designed to bring Kodi 18+ to older S805 and S812 boxes, extending their life beyond the original Android 4.4/5.0 limitations.  Key Technical Limitations 

32-bit Architecture: The S805 is a 32-bit SoC (Meson 8), making it fundamentally incompatible with newer 64-bit Android versions (Android 10+) or firmware meant for S905+ chips.

Mainline Transition: Official LibreELEC support is migrating to Kernel 6.x, but due to the poor quality of original Amlogic vendor code, hardware-accelerated video for S805 remains a work in progress in mainline kernels.  Upgrade Resources 

Firmware Index: You can find the latest community-built image files at the dtech S805 Image Index.

Installation Method: Most newer firmwares are installed via an SD card using the "toothpick method" (holding the reset button in the AV port while powering on).  Posts by dtech - LibreELEC Forum

Amlogic S805 , finding "new" firmware usually means moving away from the outdated factory Android 4.4 KitKat and toward community-supported builds like

. Since the hardware is over a decade old, official manufacturer updates have ceased, but modern lightweight Linux distros can still make the chip useful for basic media playback or light server tasks. 🚀 Recommended "New" Firmware Options

The S805 is limited by its 32-bit architecture and 1GB RAM. The best modern alternatives are: LibreELEC (Kodi-focused): Turning the device into a dedicated media player. Community members like Legacy v9.2 (LTS) builds specifically for S805. Find these on the LibreELEC Forum Armbian (Linux Desktop/Server): Using the box as a mini-server or light Linux PC.

Recent builds for devices like the "OneCloud" (which uses the S805) can often be adapted for MXQ-style boxes. Armbian S805 SoC page or community threads on the Armbian Forum Android 5.1.1 Lollipop (Custom ROM):

Users who must have Android apps but need something slightly newer than KitKat.

These are often "franken-firmwares" ported from other devices (like the K1) and may have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth bugs. 🛠️ Hardware Identification Before flashing, you

identify your specific board variation. Flashing the wrong firmware can "brick" the device. Common Models: MXQ (All Black), MK808B Plus, ODROID-C1, La Frite. Internal Chips: Check if your Wi-Fi chip is Broadcom AP6181 (no Bluetooth) or

(with Bluetooth), as this determines which driver package you need. 📖 Flashing Guide (Micro SD Method)

This is the safest method as it often allows you to boot from the SD card without overwriting the internal memory immediately.

Review — Amlogic S805 Firmware (new)

Summary

• Device class: Low-cost quad-core ARM SoC for Android TV boxes and media players.
• Target users: Budget buyers who need basic 1080p playback, apps, and streaming; not for heavy gaming or 4K advanced features.

Performance

• CPU/GPU: Modest performance — smooth for UI navigation and light apps, occasional stutters with heavy apps.
• Multitasking: Limited; background apps may reload under load.
• Boot & responsiveness: Generally quick boot; responsiveness depends on firmware optimizations and eMMC speed.

Video & Media Playback

• 1080p: Reliable playback for most codecs (H.264, MPEG-4).
• 4K: Limited or absent hardware decoding; firmware may upscale but expect dropped frames.
• HDR/DRM: HDR support is rare; Widevine L1 DRM often unavailable—streaming quality may be capped.

Connectivity & Peripherals

• Wi‑Fi/Ethernet: Wi‑Fi performance varies by module and driver; wired Ethernet usually stable (100 Mbps common).
• Bluetooth / USB: Basic Bluetooth works for keyboards/remote; USB ports support storage, keyboards, dongles — driver support varies.

Software & Stability

• Android version: Often older Android builds (5–9) depending on vendor; may lack long-term updates.
• Firmware polish: Varies widely between vendors — some provide clean, bloat-free builds; others include adware or unstable custom launchers.
• Security: Limited security/patch updates; avoid storing sensitive info on device.

User Experience

• UI: Simple TV launchers or stock Android; remote control integration decent but can be clunky.
• App support: Runs most streaming apps but app updates may break on outdated Android/DRM.
• Customization: Enthusiast firmwares (community builds) can improve performance and features if available.

Pros

• Low cost
• Good 1080p playback for local media
• Adequate for simple streaming and light apps

Cons

• Weak 4K/HDR support
• Limited updates and DRM support
• Variable vendor firmware quality and possible bloat

Verdict

• Recommend for budget users who need a basic media player for 1080p content and simple streaming. Not recommended if you require 4K/HDR, strong DRM support, future OS updates, or heavy multitasking.

If you want, I can:

1. List current vendor firmware features to compare specific S805 boxes (tell me model names).
2. Provide steps to test firmware performance and compatibility on your box.

(Invoking related search suggestions)

Because the S805 is an older chipset (released circa 2014), official manufacturer support has largely ended. Firmware is now mostly found on enthusiast forums.

Here is a guide on how to find the correct firmware for your specific device:

What to watch for next

• Ongoing security backports: Look for community or vendor backports of kernel CVEs that affect networked devices.
• Improved media stacks: Incremental gains in container support, subtitle rendering, and audio passthrough can meaningfully improve the viewing experience.
• Cleaner recovery and flashing tools: Tools that reduce bricking risk and make firmware rollback easier will lower the barrier for nonexpert users to update devices safely.
• Niche Linux support: Expanded device tree and driver work from the open‑source community could broaden the S805’s versatility beyond Android.

Part 7: The Future of S805 Firmware (2026-2027)

You might ask: Is it worth hunting for new firmware in 2026?

Yes, but with caveats.

• Kodi 22 (Piers): The CoreELEC team is actively backporting the latest Kodi to the S805 kernel. This will be released Q3 2026.
• PostmarketOS: There is a slow-moving effort to get mainline Linux (kernel 6.x) working on the S805. Currently, GPU acceleration (Mali-450) is broken, but USB and Ethernet work.
• The End of Android: Do not expect Android 8+ (Oreo) or Android 9 (Pie) on S805. The 32-bit kernel and 1GB RAM limit make this impossible.

Where to Find the Downloads (Legit Sources)

• CoreELEC Forums: Search for "S805 Legacy builds"
• Armbian: Look for "Community maintained Meson8"
• FreakTab.com: The best repository for Android 5.1.1 modifications and unbricking guides.
• GitHub: Search for "Hardkernel Odroid-C1" (The S805 variant) – these firmwares often work on TV boxes with minor adjustments.

Warning: Avoid random "download centers" offering executable files. Legitimate firmware is always a .img or .zip file. Never run an .exe downloaded from a firmware site.

---

Final Checklist: Before you flash your new Amlogic S805 firmware:

1. Opened the case and verified PCB number.
2. Identified the Wi-Fi chipset.
3. Downloaded a known-good image from FreakTab or CoreELEC.
4. Made a USB A-to-A cable or bought a verified one.
5. Saved your old remote.conf file (if you want the remote control to work).

Reboot, relax, and enjoy your "new" media center. The Amlogic S805 refuses to die, and with the right firmware, it will outlast devices five years younger.

While the Amlogic S805 is a legacy chipset by modern standards, its popularity in devices like the MXQ and MK808B Plus

has fostered a dedicated community that continues to release "new" firmware and operating system updates as recently as early 2026. If you are looking to breathe life into an old TV box, here is the latest on firmware availability and installation methods. 1. Latest "New" Firmware & OS Options (2024–2026)

Because official Android support from manufacturers ended years ago (most stopped at Android 4.4 KitKat), "new" firmware typically refers to community-maintained Linux-based distributions or custom ROMs.

LibreELEC v9.2 LTS (Updated April 2026): This is currently the most active project for the S805. The LibreELEC Forum

hosts legacy builds that were updated as recently as April 19, 2026. These builds focus on making Kodi (up to version 18.x Leia) run smoothly on low-spec hardware. Armbian (Linux): Modern Linux builds for the

are still being maintained by developers on the Armbian Forum. These allow you to use the device as a lightweight server or basic desktop.

Lakka: For retro gaming, the Lakka project provided an update in April 2024 to turn S805 boxes into dedicated RetroArch consoles

Custom Android ROMs: While some sites claim "Android 14/15" images for

, these are often unofficial ports with varying stability. The most stable "modern" Android jump for these devices remains Android 5.1.1 Lollipop, which can be installed via TWRP tutorials. 2. S805 Hardware Capabilities in 2026

Part 1: Why Look for "New" Amlogic S805 Firmware in 2026?

The stock firmware that shipped with your S805 box is likely running Android 4.4 KitKat or 5.1 Lollipop. This is today:

• Unsafe: Full of unpatched security holes.
• Slow: Bloated with malware and launchers.
• Incompatible: Modern apps (YouTube, Netflix, Kodi 21+) no longer work.

Searching for new firmware isn't just about aesthetics; it’s about functionality. Modern third-party firmware offers:

• Lightweight Linux (CoreELEC, Armbian): Turns your box into a snappy Kodi media center or a headless server.
• Android 7.1.2 Nougat (AOSP): A cleaner, faster Android OS stripped of vendor bloatware.
• EmulationStation/Batocera: Transforms the S805 into a retro console for PS1, N64, and earlier systems.

1. What does "New" Firmware actually mean for S805?

Since Amlogic stopped official support for the S805 years ago, you won't find an official Android 10, 11, or 12 release. "New" firmware generally falls into these categories:

• Stock Firmware (The "Reset" Option): This is the factory Android 4.4 (KitKat) or Android 5.1 (Lollipop) image. This is useful if your box is stuck in a boot loop or you installed a bad ROM and want to go back to defaults.
• Community ROMs (Android 7.1 Nougat): Developers have successfully ported Android 7.1 to some S805 devices. These are often faster and support newer versions of apps, but can be buggy (Wi-Fi or Bluetooth may not work).
• Armbian / Linux (The "Upgrade" Option): This is the best way to make an old S805 box "new" again. By wiping Android and installing Armbian (Linux), you can turn the box into a lightweight server, Pi-hole ad blocker, or a dedicated media player running KODI without the Android overhead.

A. LibreELEC (Kodi 20/21)

• Best for: Media center / TV box conversion.
• Status: Active community builds (maintained by kszaq, Balbes150 legacy forks).
• Latest Kernel: Linux 5.15 LTS (backported) or 6.1 on some builds.
• Latest Kodi: v20 (Nexus) or v21 (Omega) – unofficial.
• Key limitation: No hardware video decoding for modern codecs (AV1, HEVC 10-bit). S805 supports H.264, MPEG-2, VC-1 only.

Editorial: Amlogic S805 Firmware — What’s New and Why It Matters

The Amlogic S805 system-on-chip has quietly powered a generation of budget Android TV boxes and media players. Originally introduced as an affordable quad‑core ARM Cortex‑A5 solution with Mali‑450 GPU and capable of 1080p video playback, the S805 found a niche where low cost and adequate multimedia performance mattered more than cutting‑edge features. “Amlogic S805 firmware new” signals renewed attention to device software: firmware updates, community builds, and vendor revisions. That attention matters for longevity, security, and user experience. This editorial explores what recent firmware activity around the S805 means for end users, hobbyists, and small vendors.