Your R36S is great out of the box, but firmware updates can unlock better performance, fix nagging bugs, and sometimes add entirely new features. This guide walks you through updating safely, without risking your game library or saves.
What Is Firmware Anyway?
Think of firmware as the operating system that makes your R36S work. It handles game emulation, UI navigation, controller mapping, and pretty much everything else. Updates from the community (and sometimes the manufacturer) can improve how games run, add new features, and fix known issues.
Before You Update: Essential Preparation
Firmware updates can occasionally go wrong. Prepare properly and you'll be fine:
- Backup everything: Copy your entire R36S storage to your computer. Yes, it takes time. Yes, it's worth it.
- Specifically backup your saves: The SAVES folder is irreplaceable. Copy it separately somewhere safe.
- Charge your battery: A dead battery mid-update can brick your device. Start with at least 50% charge.
- Download from trusted sources: Only use firmware from the official R36S community or well-known repositories.
- Know your current version: Check in Settings > About so you know if an update is actually newer.
Where to Get Firmware
The best source for R36S firmware is the official community forum. Look for announcements from verified developers. Third-party firmware can be excellent, but stick to well-known options with positive community feedback.
Warning: Avoid random firmware downloads from unknown sites. Malicious firmware can brick your device or compromise your privacy.
Updating Your Firmware: Step by Step
Method 1: Direct Update (Easiest)
- Download the firmware file – usually a .zip file containing update scripts and system files.
- Extract the zip to find the actual update file (often ending in .raf or similar).
- Connect your R36S to your computer via USB-C.
- Copy the update file to the root directory of your R36S (not inside any folders).
- Safely eject the device from your computer.
- Disconnect USB and power on your R36S.
- Navigate to Settings > System Update and select the update file.
- Follow on-screen instructions and DO NOT interrupt the process.
- The device will restart – this is normal.
Method 2: SD Card Update (For Major Updates)
Some major updates require booting from an SD card. This is more complex but necessary for certain firmware versions:
- Format a microSD card to FAT32.
- Extract the firmware files onto the card's root directory.
- Insert the SD card into your R36S while it's powered off.
- Hold the volume up button while powering on – this boots into recovery mode.
- Select "Update from SD" and follow prompts.
- Remove the SD card once complete and reboot normally.
Post-Update Checklist
Once your R36S restarts with the new firmware:
- Verify the version: Check Settings > About to confirm the new version is installed.
- Test your games: Load a few favourites to make sure everything still works.
- Check your saves: Confirm your save files are intact.
- Adjust settings: Some updates reset your preferences. Reconfigure display, audio, and controller settings.
- Look for new features: Check the settings menu for new options that weren't there before.
Performance Improvements to Expect
Good firmware updates often include:
- Better frame rates in demanding games (PS1, N64)
- Faster loading times across all systems
- Improved audio sync for games with timing issues
- Better battery management for longer play sessions
- Enhanced compatibility with previously problematic games
Troubleshooting Update Issues
Update failed halfway through: Don't panic. Try restarting the device and attempting the update again. If it persists, restore from your backup.
Device won't boot after update: This is why you made a backup. Boot into recovery mode (usually volume + power) and restore your previous firmware from your computer.
Games running worse than before: Some updates change default settings. Check emulator settings and adjust performance options. Reverting to previous firmware is an option if the new one is genuinely worse.
Saves missing after update: This shouldn't happen with a proper update. Check the SAVES folder and restore from your backup if necessary.
When NOT to Update
Sometimes stability is better than new features:
- If everything works perfectly and you're happy with performance
- If a new firmware is reported as unstable by the community
- If you're in the middle of a long game and don't want to risk anything
- If the update changelog doesn't mention anything you actually need
Getting Help
If you run into issues that this guide doesn't cover, check out our FAQ page or contact our support team. We've helped countless customers through firmware updates and can often resolve issues quickly.
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