[HOWTO] Update your Galaxy S6 Active firmware (7.0.1 Nougat)

❶❷❸ Regardless of your firmware version (but under v23) the fastest way to update to the latest build is by using OPTION 2 to flash v23 directly with Odin and then OPTION 3 to sideload v23 to v24, then v24 to v25 and so on until you reach the latest build.

Firmware History (as per the official AT&T website):
v28 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS7DRF2 (use option 1 or 3 to update to this version)
v27 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS7DRE1 (use option 1 or 3)
v26 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS7DRD3 (use option 1 or 3)
v25 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS7DRC1 (use option 1 or 3)
v24 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS7DRB1 (use option 1 or 3)
v23 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS7DRA2 (use option 1, 2 or 3)
v22 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCU6DQK3 (use option 1 or 3)
v21 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS6DQJ1 (use option 1 or 3)
v20 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS6DQH1 (use option 1 or 3)
v19 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCU6DQG1 (use option 1 or 3)
v18 - 7.0 - G890AUCU6DQF1 (use option 1, 2 or 3)
v17 - 7.0 - G890AUCU6DQE1
v16 - 7.0 - G890AUCU6DQD1
v15 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCS6CPK8
v14 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCS5CPK5
v13 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCS5CPK4
v12 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU5CPK3
v11 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCS5CPI4
v10 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU5CPI2
v9 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU4CPH3
v8 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCS4CPF3
v7 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU4CPF1
v6 - 5.1.1 - G890AUCS3BPDS
v5 - 5.1.1 - G890AUCS3BPCG
v4 - 5.1.1 - G890AUCU3BPB3
v3 - 5.1.1 - G890AUCU3BOJE
v2 - 5.0.2 - G890AUCU2AU2AOF4
v1 - 5.0.2 - G890AUCU2AOF3

Many are struggling with the firmware update process because they are outside the US and/or without an ATT account. There are three ways to update your S6 Active - using the official Samsung Smart Switch program, manually flashing the firmware with Odin, and manually sideloading with ADB.

• Option 1 works for people located in the US with an ATT sim card. However some people can't see the latest firmware.
• Option 2 works for everybody regardless of their firmware, mobile operator or location.
• Option 3 works for everybody regardless of their firmware, mobile operator or location.

There is a Troubleshooting Tutorial at the end of the post. If you run into a problem, make sure to check there before asking for help.

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OPTION 1: Using Samsung's Smart Switch program
(It works for some users but others say the program is not showing the latest firmware)
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1.) Download and install Smart Switch on your computer.
-> Smart Switch for your PC
-> Smart Switch for your Mac

2.) Connect the cable to a compatible USB port on your computer.

3.) Connect the other end of the cable to your mobile device.

4.) Allow your computer to install any required drivers for your device. The process may take a few minutes.

5.) Open Smart Switch on your computer and allow it to make the connection.
-> If a software update is available for your device, Smart Switch will automatically prompt you to update. At any time, you can click Update.

6.) Click Update to begin downloading the necessary files.

7.) Click OK to proceed.

Your device may turn off and on a few times during the update process. After the update is complete your data should be preserved. However if you stop the installation by turning off the device, or unplugging the USB cable, your device may not work normally. To avoid data loss you should back up everything before you begin the update.

You cannot downgrade the software after the update has been completed.

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OPTION 2: Download v23 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS7DRA2 firmware and flash it with Odin
(If you have a problem check the Troubleshooting Tutorial at the bottom of the post.)
Once your firmware is updated to Nougat 7.* you cannot use Odin to downgrade to Lollipop 5.* or Marshmallow 6.*. The bootloader is also upgraded and cannot be downgraded to a lower version.
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IMPORTANT: Flashing via this method WILL WIPE EVERYTHING SO BACKUP FIRST!

1.) Download the latest Odin version.

2.) Download the firmware (v23 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS7DRA2) from one of the links below:
-> v23 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS7DRA2 at Mega.nz + (Alternative AndroidFileHost Link) (Thanks to @Phamvietquy)
-> If you know about other links, please share!
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If you need v16 or v18 for some reason... I'm leaving the download links below:
-> v18 - 7.0 - G890AUCU6DQF1 at Mega.nz + (Alternative Google Drive Link) (Thanks to @Phamvietquy)
-> v16 - 7.0 - G890AUCU6DQD1 at Mega.nz + (Alternative Mega.nz Link) (Thanks to @Phamvietquy)

3.) Ensure that you have installed the USB drivers first.

4.) Prerequisites: Before you proceed prepare these necessary things as follows so you will not screw-up your phone:
• Create a back-up with Smart Switch of all your personal data, like: Contacts, Messages, Applications, Pictures and Videos, so that you will not lost it just in-case something might went wrong after the update.
• Make sure that your Galaxy S6 Active battery is fully charged to ensure stability and to get rid of power failure issues while updating.
• Prepare a PC, this will not work on Mac.
• Enable USB debugging mode if you are having issues connecting your device to the computer try to enable the this option. In your Samsung Galaxy S6 Active go to Settings >> About device >> then look for the firmware "Build number" and then tap that build number for around 7-times. Then hit back to Settings > Developer option > Enable USB Debugging.
• TURN OFF the Reactivation Lock - Go to Settings > PERSONAL > Lock screen and security > Find My Mobile and log in your Samsung Account. Then uncheck the Turn Reactivation lock on. This is only needed if you already turned-it-ON, from which you cannot modify the system when it's turned-ON.
• If you disabled some system bloatware manually or with a third party software, make sure everything is enabled again. Check the Troubleshooting Tutorial at the end if you run into any problems.

5.) Start ODIN. DO NOT touch the default options such as check-marked boxes "Auto-Reboot" and "F-Reset Time" while leaving the "e-Partition" unchecked.

6.) Reboot the Galaxy S6 Active into Download Mode: Turn it Off first. Then press and hold the Volume Down, HOME and Power ON button at the same time). You will then presented into a "Warning Message" screen, just press the Volume Up to continue.

7.) Connect the USB data cable from Phone to PC. The ID:COM box will turn to a bluish color when the phone is properly connected and recognized with ODIN.

8.) Extract the stock firmware from the zip file and load in ODIN. Just click on the BL button then select the files starting with "BL_". Then click the AP button and choose the file starting with "AP_", same with the buttons CP and CSC:
BL Button loads BL_G890AUCS7DRA2_CL12599862_QB16473731_REV02_user_low_ship.tar.md5
AP Button loads AP_G890AUCS7DRA2_CL12599862_QB16473731_REV02_user_low_ship_meta.tar.md5
CP Button loads CP_G890AUCS7DRA2_CP8601344_CL12599862_QB16473731_REV02_user_low_ship.tar.md5
CSC Button loads CSC_ATT_G890AATT7DRA2_CL12599862_QB16473731_REV02_user_low_ship.tar.md5

9.) Lastly, tick the "START" button when all is set and ready to begin flashing.

Do not disconnect nor do anything when the phone is already in flash mode. You may mess up the phone if you accidentally interfere with the installation. Wait until a word "PASS" appears on the top-left side of the ODIN screen - it is an indication that the installation was successful. (If you get FAILED errors, check the USB connection condition, repeat the whole process)
Wait until the phone completely reboots, then unplug it from the PC.

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OPTION 3: Sideload via ADB to Nougat v28 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS7DRF2
(Huge thanks to @ccrowe3 & @archie87 & @Jimmyvb98 for the info and the firmware links!) These files cannot be flashed with ODIN. Use the instructions below!
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IMPORTANT: Flashing via this method WILL WIPE EVERYTHING SO BACKUP FIRST. You can use this option regardless of your firmware version. Just make sure to sideload the proper file for your current firmware!

1.) Prerequisites: Before you proceed prepare these necessary things as follows so you will not screw-up your phone:
• Create a back-up with Smart Switch of all your personal data, like: Contacts, Messages, Applications, Pictures and Videos, so that you will not lost it just in-case something might went wrong after the update.
• Make sure that your Galaxy S6 Active battery is fully charged to ensure stability and to get rid of power failure issues while updating.
• Prepare a PC, this will not work on Mac.
• TURN OFF the Reactivation Lock - Go to Settings > PERSONAL > Lock screen and security > Find My Mobile and log in your Samsung Account. Then uncheck the Turn Reactivation lock on. This is only needed if you already turned-it-ON, from which you cannot modify the system when it's turned-ON.
• If you disabled some system bloatware manually or with a third party software, make sure everything is enabled again. Check the Troubleshooting Tutorial at the end if you run into any problems.

2.) Download the firmware packages from the official AT&T Update server to your PC (or use the alternative links):
** If you see SERVER ERROR 403 and cannot download the file, try with a download manager program like Download Manager (EN) or Download Master (RU). (it's free) **
-> v1 (G890AUCU2AOF3) to v2 (G890AUCU2AU2AOF4) update file (129 MB)
-> v2 (G890AUCU2AU2AOF4) to v3 (G890AUCU3BOJE) update file (719 MB)
-> v3 (G890AUCU3BOJE) to v4 (G890AUCU3BPB3) update file (85,9 MB)
-> v4 (G890AUCU3BPB3) to v7 (G890AUCU4CPF1) update file (1,4 GB)
-> v5 (G890AUCS3BPCG) to v7 (G890AUCU4CPF1) update file (1,4 GB)
-> v6 (G890AUCS3BPDS) to v7 (G890AUCU4CPF1) update file (1,4 GB)
-> v7 (G890AUCU4CPF1) to v10 (G890AUCU5CPI2) update file (251 MB)
-> v8 (G890AUCS4CPF3) to v12 (G890AUCU5CPK3) update file (403 MB)
-> v9 (G890AUCU4CPH3) to v12 (G890AUCU5CPK3) update file (310 MB)
-> v10 (G890AUCU5CPI2) to v12 (G890AUCU5CPK3) update file (294 MB)
-> v11 (G890AUCS5CPI4) to v12 (G890AUCU5CPK3) update file (301 MB)
-> v12 (G890AUCU5CPK3) to v13 (G890AUCS5CPK4) update file (13.5 MB)
-> v13 (G890AUCS5CPK4) to v14 (G890AUCS5CPK5) update file (21.5 MB)
-> v14 (G890AUCS6CPK5) to v16 (G890AUCU6DQD1) update file (1.26 GB)
-> v15 (G890AUCS6CPK8) to v16 (G890AUCU6DQD1) update file (1.19 GB)
-> v16 (G890AUCU6DQD1) to v17 (G890AUCU6DQE1) update file (15.6 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v17 (G890AUCU6DQE1) to v18 (G890AUCU6DQF1) update file (16.2 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v18 (G890AUCU6DQF1) to v19 (G890AUCU6DQG1) update file (23.2 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v19 (G890AUCU6DQG1) to v20 (G890AUCS6DQH1) update file (17.3 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v20 (G890AUCS6DQH1) to v22 (G890AUCU6DQK3) update file (429 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v21 (G890AUCS6DQJ1) to v22 (G890AUCU6DQK3) update file (389 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v22 (G890AUCU6DQK3) to v23 (G890AUCS7DRA2) update file (51 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v23 (G890AUCS7DRA2) to v24 (G890AUCS7DRB1) update file (14 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v24 (G890AUCS7DRB1) to v25 (G890AUCS7DRC1) update file (13.4 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v25 (G890AUCS7DRC1) to v26 (G890AUCS7DRD3) update file (17.7 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v26 (G890AUCS7DRD3) to v27 (G890AUCS7DRE1) update file (20.4 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v27 (G890AUCS7DRE1) to v28 (G890AUCS7DRF2) update file (20.5 MB) + (Alternative Link)

3.) Reboot the phone into recovery. Turn it off and wait a minute for it to completely turn off. Hold down Volume Up + Home + Power until you see a little Android guy. It will say Applying System Update or something like that possibly, and just let it do it's thing until a menu comes up.

4.) Select "Apply Update from ADB"

5.) Make sure you have ADB installed on your PC:
-> ADB for Windows
-> ADB for Mac
-> ADB for Linux

6.) If you're on firmware v19 and you're going for v20 the update file is called "SS-G890AUCS6DQG1-to-S6DQH1-UP". Put it in the ADB folder. You can rename it to anything easy to remember like "FIRMWARE".

7.) In the ADB folder, hold SHIFT + mouse right click and choose "Open command window here". Then type the command "adb sideload FIRMWARE" (where FIRMWARE is how you named your file). If you have any problems check the Troubleshooting Tutorial at the end of the post.

8.) Wait patiently. The firmware files over 1 GB can take over 30-40 minutes. It's okay.

9.) Phone reboots and will hang at AT&T logo for a short time and it'll boot up properly. Now repeat steps 3 to 8 for the firmware files until you're on the latest firmware.
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Troubleshooting Tutorial

• If you get an error message "cannot read FIRMWARE" in the ADB window:
-> Try running ADB as administrator. To do that click your Windows START button, then search for "CMD" and you'll see "cmd.exe" in the results. Right click it and choose "Run as Administrator". Then if your ADB folder is located in C:\adb, write the commands cd c:\adb and then adb sideload FIRMWARE (where FIRMWARE is how you named the firmware file).
-> Try with different ADB drivers. Uninstall yours, restart the PC and install these: http://adbdriver.com/downloads/
-> Try again on another PC, try on different version of Windows, try with a different USB cable. Users reporting this problem resolved it like this.
-> Re-download (you can't use the one you've got!) the file which cannot be read. Don't rename it. Just put it in the ADB folder, copy the file name so you don't have to type it manually, and run the command in ADB -> "adb sideload [name of file]". To paste in Command Prompt you have to Right Mouse Click in the window and choose Paste in the menu. If this solution doesn't work, rename the firmware file to "01" and try "adb sideload 01". If it doesn't work type "adb sideload 01.zip" but don't rename the file, keep it "01".
-> Rename the ADB folder to Android and put it in your C:\ drive. Your active directory to ABD must be C:\Android. Then SHIFT + Right click to run Command Prompt from that folder and type "adb sideload [name of file]". If it doesn't work, rename the file to add .zip extension and try again "adb sideload [name of file].zip". If it doesn't work try "adb sideload [name of file].zip.zip".
-> If you renamed the file to add a .zip extension (for example FIRMWARE.zip) and you've got the error message, then you renamed it back to FIRMWARE and you've still get the same error message, leave the name FIRMWARE (without the .zip extension) but try "adb sideload FIRMWARE.zip". So even thought your file is called FIRMWARE without zip extension, you still type the command with the zip extension and it may work.
-> One person said the following: "Adding to the list of things that may lead to * cannot read 'file.zip' * : check your PC's available memory. I'm a dev so I had a few apps running and hogging all of my 12Gb of ram, but I wasn't aware until windows suggested to close one of them . I then realised adb may not have enough memory to open the file (or whatever it is that it's doing before sideloading). Once I stopped some of the apps, thus lowering the memory usage, it worked OK."
-> Under Windows 10 click the "START" button (bottom left on the screen) -> Click "Settings" -> Click "Update & Security" -> In the left menu click "For developers" -> Select "Developer mode" on the right. -> Click "Yes" when prompted. Now download new ADB files from here, unzip and replace the files in c:\adb. Now restart the PC and then try sideloading again. If you get an error, add .zip to the firmware file and try again.
-> Try to "elevate" the "adb" process as explained here.

• If you get an error message Status 7 on the phone during the sideload:
-> If you see this error during sideload after flashing the modified 5.1.1. BOJE with ODIN (without the cache.img), then flash the original BOJE again (unmodified, with the cache.img). Then try sideloading again.
-> Please check the link below. You probably have some system bloatware disabled (manually or with a third party software) which ruined the process. So enable everything and then start over:
-> http://www.**********.com/fix-status-7-error-while-installing-ota-update-or-roms/

• If the sideload fails, your phone goes into bootload cycle and in Recovery Mode you see "dm-verity verification failed..."
-> Don't worry. This happened to me and I thought I have to buy a new phone or ship this one to Samsung. No need! To solve the issue:
1. Download latest official firmware zip file from OPTION 2. You can't use the files from OPTION 3!
2. Download the [TOOL] TAR.MD5 PACKAGER from this XDA thread.
3. Extract the official firmware zip to get the MD5 file inside called "CSC_ATT_G890AATT5CPK3_CL9696102_QB11587784_REV02_user_low_ship.tar.md5".
4. Put the MD5 file in the main folder of the TAR_MD5_PACKAGER TOOL. Not in a sub folder, but in the main folder.
5. Start the tool from "TAR.MD5_PACKAGER.bat" and you'll see a menu in the tool window. Click "3" to Extract the Rom.
6. In the next window click "1", then "Enter", then "Y". It'll start extracting the MD5 file.
7. Once ready it'll ask you to click any key. Do it and you'll see the main menu of the TOOL program. Now go to the TOOL folder, then the subfolder "parts" and delete the file "cache.img"
8. Switch back to the TOOL program and click "1" to "Make Tar" and to create the new TAR file. On the next screen it'll ask you to choose a name. Type anything you want. I've typed CSC. Then click "Enter", then "Y". It'll start packaging the new tar file. Once it's done it'll ask you to click any key and then it'll bring the main menu of the TOOL again.
9. Now in the main menu of the TOOL click "2" to "Add MD5 to Tar", then click "1" and then "Enter", then "Y". It'll start adding the MD5 and once it's completed it'll ask you to press any key.
10. Press any key and you're back to the main menu of the TOOL. Press "4" to "Exit" and you're out of the program. Go to the TOOL folder, then subfolder "packaged". Inside you'll find the new flashable file "CSC.tar.md5". Do not rename or change the file anymore. Now follow OPTION 2 -> Step 8 to flash the latest firmware again but when you're loading the last file in ODIN under the CSC Button use the new file you've just created - "CSC.tar.md5"!!
11. That's it! Your phone will load up normally. Before you start sideloading again, reboot the phone into Recovery -> Turn it off and then hold down Volume Up + Home + Power until you see the Recovery menu. Wipe the cache. Then reboot and you can continue to sideload. Make sure to follow all requirements in OPTION 3 -> Step 1.
12. In case you can't sideload and you get Status 7 error, flash the UNMODIFIED ORIGINAL 5.1.1. BOJE again. This should fix the problem.

• During OPTION 3 if ODIN always fail when it's almost finished and you're stuck with a screen that says there was a problem upgrading:
-> Try Smart Switch's emergency recovery function. You'll have to type the phone's model SM-G890A and then your IMEI number. To find your IMEI number just enter Download Mode by holding VOLUME DOWN + HOME + POWER. Once you see the blue/green screen, DON'T click VOLUME UP but instead click the HOME button once. You'll see your IMEI, SERIAL NUMBER and more.

If you still get an error message, paste it in the comments and we'll try to find a resolution
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I'll appreciate if you share your experience with the new firmware!

.

CHANGELOG
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UPDATE: September 27, 2018
• New firmware update is available - v28 (G890AUCS7DRF2)
-> What's changing: Android device security updates
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links:
-> v27 (G890AUCS7DRE1) to v28 (G890AUCS7DRF2) update file (20.5 MB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: June 24, 2018
• New firmware update is available - v26 - G890AUCS7DRD3 - (7.0.1) and v27 - G890AUCS7DRE1 - (7.0.1)
-> What's changing: Android device security updates
• OPTION 3 updated with four new links:
-> v25 (G890AUCS7DRC1) to v26 (G890AUCS7DRD3) update file (17.7 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v26 (G890AUCS7DRD3) to v27 (G890AUCS7DRE1) update file (20.4 MB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: April 8, 2018
• New firmware update is available - v25 - G890AUCS7DRC1 - (7.0.1)
-> What's changing: Android device security updates
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links:
-> v24 (G890AUCS7DRB1) to v25 (G890AUCS7DRC1) update file (13.4 MB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: March 30, 2018
• New firmware update is available - v24 - G890AUCS7DRB1 - (7.0.1)
-> What's changing: Android device security updates
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links:
-> v23 (G890AUCS7DRA2) to v24 (G890AUCS7DRB1) update file (14 MB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: February 22, 2018
• New firmware update is available - v23 - G890AUCS7DRA2 - (7.0.1) (Thanks @Ultima99, @lohtse & @Phamvietquy for keeping us up to date with the new releases!)
-> What's changing: Android device security updates, including Meltdown and Spectre migration patches (on SPLs Jan. 1 or later)
• OPTION 2 updated with two new links:
-> v23 - 7.0.1 - G890AUCS7DRA2 at Mega.nz + (Alternative AndroidFileHost Link)
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links:
-> v22 (G890AUCU6DQK3) to v23 (G890AUCS7DRA2) update file (51 MB) + (Alternative Mega.nz Link)

UPDATE: December 22, 2017
• New firmware update is available - v22 - G890AUCU6DQK3 - (7.0.1) (Thanks @Ultima99 for keeping us up to date with the new releases!)
-> What's new: Support for new Mobile Hotspot APN
-> What's changing: Network performance improvements and Android device security updates, including BlueBorne fix (on SPLs Sept. 1 or later)
• OPTION 3 updated with four new links:
-> v20 (G890AUCS6DQH1) to v22 (G890AUCU6DQK3) update file (429 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v21 (G890AUCS6DQJ1) to v22 (G890AUCU6DQK3) update file (389 MB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: November 11, 2017
• New firmware update is available - v21 - G890AUCS6DQJ1 - (7.0.1)
-> What's new: Android device security updates, including BlueBorne fix (on SPLS Sept. 1 or later) and KRACK Wi-Fi- vulnerability fix
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links:
-> v20 (G890AUCS6DQH1) to v21 (G890AUCS6DQJ1) update file (61 MB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: August 27, 2017
• New firmware update is available - v20 - G890AUCS6DQH1 - (7.0.1)
-> What's new: Android device security updates
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links:
-> v19 (G890AUCU6DQG1) to v20 (G890AUCS6DQH1) update file (17.3 MB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: August 3, 2017
• New firmware update is available - v19 - G890AUCS6DQG1 - (7.0.1)
-> What's new: Android device security updates
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links:
-> v18 (G890AUCU6DQF1) to v19 (G890AUCU6DQG1) update file (23.2 MB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: July 24, 2017
• OPTION 2 updated with two new links - the new ODIN flashable firmware v18 - G890AUCU6DQF1 - 7.0 (thanks to @Phamvietquy)

UPDATE: July 10, 2017
• Everybody who's stuck on v16 can now update to v18 with OPTION 3 thanks to the sideload links provided by @Jimmyvb98. There are alternative links for people which are unable to download it through the official AT&T website.
• OPTION 3 updated with four new links:
-> v16 (G890AUCU6DQD1) to v17 (G890AUCU6DQE1) update file (15.6 MB) + (Alternative Link)
-> v17 (G890AUCU6DQE1) to v18 (G890AUCU6DQF1) update file (16.2 MB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: June 28, 2017
• New firmware update is available - v18 - G890AUCU6DQF1 - (7.0)
-> What's new: Android device security updates
• There are no download links available neither for Odin nor for sideloading. If you come up with something, share it! Thanks.

UPDATE: May 29, 2017
• New firmware update is available - v17 - G890AUCU6DQE1 - (7.0)
-> What's new: Android device security updates
• OPTION 2 updated with three new links with the new ODIN flashable firmware v16 - G890AUCU6DQD1 - 7.0 (thanks to @Phamvietquy)
• OPTION 3 is NOT YET updated with sideload links for v16 to v17 as I couldn't find any active firmware files. If you can, please share and I'll put it on.

UPDATE: May 4, 2017
Nougat 7.0 Official firmware is up! It's actually vBeta4 which was stable enough to make it an official build. Thank you @ou812bkewl for sharing the news!
• New firmware update is available:
v16 - G890AUCU6DQD1 - (7.0)
-> What's new: Android 7.0 Nougat, Samsung Cloud, Samsung Pass, and Android device security updates
-> What's changing: Other fixes and enhancements
-> What's going: AT&T Address Book and MobiTV
• OPTIONS 1 & 3 updated with the new names of the version files

UPDATE: April 6, 2017
Nougat 7.0 Beta 4 is up! Thank you @Jimmyvb98 for sharing the news and the links!
• New firmware update is available:
vBeta4 - G890AUCU6DQD1 - (7.0)
-> What's new: Waiting for your input on this. Please share!
• OPTION 3 updated with five new links:
-> v14 (G890AUCS6CPK5) to vBeta4 (G890AUCU6DQD1) update file (1.26 GB)
-> v15 (G890AUCS6CPK8) to vBeta4 (G890AUCU6DQD1) update file (1.19 GB) + (Alternative Link)
-> vBeta3 (G890AUCU5DQB8) to vBeta4 (G890AUCU6DQD1) update file (152 MB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: April 5, 2017
• New firmware update is available:
v15 - G890AUCS6CPK8 - (6.0.1)
-> What's new: Android device security updates
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links:
-> v14 (G890AUCS5CPK4) to v15 (G890AUCS6CPK8) update file (97 MB) + (Alternative Link)
NOTE to people on the Nougat Beta versions: If you want to go back to the latest official build - use Option 2 to flash v12 with Odin, then Option 3 to sideload to v15.

UPDATE: March 21, 2017
Nougat 7.0 Beta 3 is in the house! Thank you @Jimmyvb98, @Pulverizer & @H2met for sharing the news and the links!
• New firmware update is available:
vNougatBeta3 - G890AUCU5DQB8 - (7.0)
-> What's new: Waiting for your input on this. Please share!
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links:
-> vNougatBeta2 (G890AUCU5DQB2) to vNougatBeta3 (G890AUCU5DQB8) update file (184 MB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: February 11, 2017
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links (thank you @H2met for sharing the official link):
-> v13 (G890AUCS5CPK4) to vNougatBeta2 (G890AUCU5DQB2) update file (1.27 GB) + (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: February 10, 2017
Nougat 7.0 Beta 2 is in the house! Thank you @H2met for sharing the news and the official download link!
• New firmware updates are available:
vNougatBeta2 G890AUCU5DQB2 - (7.0)
-> What's new: Waiting for your input on this. Please share!
v14 G890AUCS5CPK5 - (6.0.1)
-> What's new: Android device security updates
• OPTION 3 updated with four new links:
-> v13 (G890AUCS5CPK4) to v14 (G890AUCS5CPK5) update file (21.5 MB) (Alternative Link)
-> v14 (G890AUCS5CPK5) to vNougatBeta2 (G890AUCU5DQB2) update file (1.27 GB) (Alternative Link)
• v14_beta1 renamed to vNougatBeta1 because it's easier to keep track on the official updates.

UPDATE: February 5, 2017
Nougat 7.0 is here! It's beta but it's here!
• New firmware update is available - v14_beta1 G890AUCU5DQB1 - (7.0)
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links:
-> v13 (G890AUCS5CPK4) to v14_beta1 (G890AUCU5DQB1 ) update file (1.27 GB) + Alternative Link

UPDATE: January 18, 2017
• New firmware update is available - v13 G890AUCS5CPK4 - (6.0.1)
-> What's new: Android device security updates
• OPTION 3 updated with two new links:
-> v12 (G890AUCU5CPK3) to v13 (G890AUCS5CPK4) update file (13.5 MB) + Alternative Link

UPDATE: December 26, 2016
• New firmware update is available - v12 G890AUCU5CPK3 - (6.0.1)
-> What's new: Enhancements for AT&T Messages Backup & Sync and AT&T Wi-Fi calling
-> What's changing: Android device security updates
- See more at: https://www.att.com/devicehowto/tut...tep_KM1127173?make=Samsung&model=SamsungG890A
• OPTION 2 updated with the new ODIN flashable firmware v12 G890AUCU5CPK3 (thanks to @Phamvietquy)
• OPTION 3 updated with six new links:
-> v8 (G890AUCS4CPF3) to v12 (G890AUCU5CPK3) update file (403 MB)
-> v9 (G890AUCU4CPH3) to v12 (G890AUCU5CPK3) update file (310 MB)
-> v10 (G890AUCU5CPI2) to v12 (G890AUCU5CPK3) update file (294 MB) (Alternative Link)
-> v11 (G890AUCS5CPI4) to v12 (G890AUCU5CPK3) update file (301 MB) (Alternative Link)

UPDATE: November 11, 2016
• OPTION 3 updated with v10 (G890AUCU5CPI2) to v11 (G890AUCS5CPI4) update file (23 MB) + Alternative Link

UPDATE: September 29, 2016
• New firmware update is available - v10 G890AUCU5CPI2 - (6.0.1)
-> What's new: Android device security updates
-> What's changing: Device performance improvements in areas with lower network density and performance enhancements to Messaging services
• OPTION 3 updated with seven new links:
-> v7 (G890AUCU4CPF1) to v10 (G890AUCU5CPI2) update file (251 MB) + Alternative Link
-> v8 (G890AUCS4CPF3) to v10 (G890AUCU5CPI2) update file (228 MB) + Alternative Link
-> v9 (G890AUCU4CPH3) to v10 (G890AUCU5CPI2) update file (123 MB) + Two Alternative Links

UPDATE: September 5, 2016
• OPTION 3 updated with v7 (G890AUCU4CPF1) to v9 (G890AUCU4CPH3) update file (125 MB) + Alternative Link

UPDATE: September 4, 2016
• New firmware update is available - v9 G890AUCU4CPH3 - 6.0.1 - 123 MB.
-> What's changing: Device enhancements - Improves stability and performance of Messaging services when sending attachments on a group message. Specifically, this fix eliminates the display of a pop-up message that states IMS Has Stopped.
-> What's new: Android device security updates
- See more at: https://www.att.com/devicehowto/tut...tep_KM1127173?make=Samsung&model=SamsungG890A
• OPTION 3 updated with v8 (G890AUCS4CPF3) to v9 (G890AUCU4CPH3) update file (123 MB) + Alternative Link

UPDATE: August 09, 2016
• We now have ODIN flashable stock v7 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU4CPF1, thanks to @JUSMEJOSE .
• OPTION 2 updated.
• OPTION 3 updated with alternative download links.
• Regardless of your firmware version (but under v7) the fastest way to update to v8 is by using OPTION 2 to flash v7, and then OPTION 3 to sideload v7 to v8.

UPDATE: August 01, 2016
• Troubleshooting Tutorial updated with more detailed steps of the "dm-verity verification failed..." problem.

UPDATE: July 30, 2016
• Firmware version numbers (etc. v4, v5...) are now changed to match the official AT&T timeline and to avoid confusion.

UPDATE: July 28, 2016
• Many people are reporting SERVER ERROR 403 while trying to download the firmware packages from the official AT&T server so I've added a solution ( thanks to @genialpty ) in OPTION 3, under STEP 2:
** IF YOU SEE SERVER ERROR 403 AND CANNOT DOWNLOAD THE FILE, USE A DOWNLOAD MANAGER PROGRAM LIKE THIS (IT'S FREE) **

UPDATE: July 24, 2016
• New firmware update is available - G890AUCS4CPF3 (previous one was G890AUCU4CPF1). It's added as v6.
• It's about "Device Security Improvements". You can read more about it here.
• Download link added in Option 3.

UPDATE: July 9, 2016
• Troubleshooting Tutorial updated with more info.
• Addressing the CANNOT READ error under Windows 10.
• and the STATUS 7 error during sideload after flashing the modified 5.1.1 BOJE (without cache.img).

UPDATE: July 6, 2016
The official 6.0.1 Marshmallow firmware is rolling out. No more beta versions!
• v5 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU3CPE9 (beta) updated to v5 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU4CPF1 (official).
• Download links in OPTION 3 are also updated with the new firmware G890AUCU4CPF1.
• If you already sideloaded to G890AUCU3CPE9 you can use this link (PE9 to PF1) to sideload directly to G890AUCU4CPF1.

UPDATE: May 24, 2016
• v5 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU3CPE7 updated to v5 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU3CPE9.
• Download links in OPTION 3 are also updated with the new firmware G890AUCU3CPE9.
• Additional alternative firmware link added in OPTION 3 - Step 2.

UPDATE: May 20, 2016
• v5 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU3CPE3 updated to v5 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU3CPE7.
• Download links in OPTION 3 are also updated with the new firmware G890AUCU3CPE7.
• Troubleshooting Tutorial updated with more info.

UPDATE: May 18, 2016
• Troubleshooting Tutorial updated with more info.

UPDATE: May 14, 2016
• Troubleshooting Tutorial updated with more info.

UPDATE: May 11, 2016
• For some reason ATT removed the new firmware G890AUCU3CPE4. I've switched back the download link to G890AUCU3CPE3.

UPDATE: May 10, 2016
• New firmware update is available - G890AUCU3CPE4 (previous one was G890AUCU3CPE3). Both - 6.0.1.
• The following outdated firmware files & info are no longer relevant so I removed them:
v6 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU3CPE3
v5 - 5.1.1 - G890AUCS3BPCG
• The new firmware update is now called v5 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU3CPE4
• Those who already updated to U3CPE3 but want to go to U3CPE4 can do it only if they use OPTION 2 to flash back with ODIN to v3 - 5.1.1 - G890AUCU3BOJE, then use OPTION 3 to sideload to v4 - 5.1.1 - G890AUCU3BPB3, and then sideload v5 - 6.0.1 - G890AUCU3CPE4. The links in OPTION 3 are updated. IF YOU GO THIS WAY TO ODIN BACK to 5.1.1. you may have to do a factory reset afterwards if you get a boot loop.

UPDATE: May 09, 2016
• Troubleshooting Tutorial updated with more info.

UPDATE: May 08, 2016
• Two more firmware packages added in Option 3 - for v2 and v3.
• Troubleshooting Tutorial added.

UPDATE: May 07, 2016
• Option 3 added. Firmware links for v4, v5 and v6 added.
This option works for everybody regardless of their current firmware, mobile operator or location.

THE BEGINNING: Nov 30, 2015
• Thread created by @lirex.
• Options 1 and 2 created.
• Flash-able firmware (via Odin) for v3 - G890AATT3BOJE (5.1.1) uploaded to Mega.nz for your convenience - faster download speed.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I did it with Odin and KNOX is not triggered. Everything works great

rogertinu. said:

if i update it with odin, isn't there any KNOX problem?

thanks

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Click to collapse

Okay. I hope you've made a backup as suggested in the instructions.

Let's save the phone first. Do a factory reset. You can see how here (first method):
http://www.hardreset.info/devices/samsung/samsung-g890a-galaxy-s6-active/

After the phone is working normally you can try flashing one more time. Make sure you follow the steps to the letter.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G890A

Hm, did you do a full wipe data factory reset after flashing? Press and hold Volume Up+ Home+Power button, then select the Wipe Data/Factory Reset, to gain a fresh firmware installed.

quac_quac said:

I tried without any luck , still stucked at logo S6 active, I can see my recovery is new build ( it pass flash right? ). Any suggestion, I also try to flash back to 5.0.2 via Odin but it say Failed: SW rev check Fail Device: 3 Binari: 1

Click to expand...

Click to collapse

Okay, run Samsung Smart Switch on your PC and connect the phone to the PC. Some people report that with the program they've managed to recover the phone from Soft brick and complete Android 5.1.1 installation.

quac_quac said:

I did, get into recovery, factory reset then reboot --> stucked. Factory reset, re-flash --> pass --> stucked. I changed from Sony and really have no knowledge about that device.

Click to expand...

Click to collapse

I'm looking into another possible solution. In the meantime have you tried flashing 5.1.1 again ?

quac_quac said:

My smart switch said "unsupported device" @_@

Click to expand...

Click to collapse

The reason for this error is during the previous flash it upgraded the bootloader to 5.1.1 and now it is refusing to go back to an older version. You cannot flash 5.0.2 bootloader again. You have to stay with Android 5.1.1

I followed the upgrading instructions for both S6 Active phones at home and they're working fine. Maybe the problem is with your firmware file. Sometimes the file may not be correctly downloaded even though no errors are shown during the download process. Can you try re-download the firmware (use the new link from Mega.nz, it's much faster) and flash it again. Also make sure you select the firmware file in Odin under the AP button.

Let me know what happens. If this doesn't work you can use the XDA Assist forum to ask for more help. There are much more experienced people there which can help.

quac_quac said:

Did it many times, always pass and stuck. Odin also did not let me flash 5.0.2 when always failed. I thought bootloader was locked when I flash 5.1.1

Click to expand...

Click to collapse

So your option is for people who can download the new firmware but don't want to wait?

pure241 said:

OPTION 3: Take It To A Best Buy Store

If your local Best Buy has a Samsung Experience Shop, they can update your firmware for you. Downloading the firmware takes the longest. They'll start the firmware download for you, you can leave for a an hour or two, come back, and the actual update will take less than 10 minutes. It might be good etiquette to actually leave while the firmware is downloading. (Not every Samsung rep will enjoy "talking shop" with you.) But if you're lucky someone with an S6 Active will have visited them before, and you can get straight to updating.

My Nexus 5 is already on 6.0.1, while my Nexus 6 is still on 5.1.1. Seriously, screw AT&T. As soon as the Marshmallow update is released by Samsung (I hope they jump straight to 6.0.1) I'm heading straight to Best Buy.

Credit for this method belongs to some one on some Android forum. So thanks!

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Click to collapse