Is Downgrading Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G from One UI 6 to 5 a Safe Fix for Frustrating Problems?

Can You Quickly Move Galaxy A52s 5G from One UI 6 to 5 Without Major Data Loss?

Switching your Samsung Galaxy A52s 5G to an older version of One UI is possible if you’re running into problems with One UI 6 or if you just miss features or speed from an older version. Before you start, know that downgrading a phone is risky. Sometimes features like WiFi, calls, or mobile data don’t work right after. Always back up everything first to avoid losing your photos, apps, and settings.

Why Downgrade?

• One UI 6 feels unstable or slow.
• New version hides or removes features you like.
• Some apps or games don’t work as well.
• You prefer the look or feel of the old layout.

What to Know Before You Start

• You need a computer.
• Downloading and flashing firmware can erase your data.
• Some steps require patience and double-checking.
• Flashing wrong files can “brick” (break) your device.
• This will trip Knox, which means you may lose some official features like Samsung Pay.

Steps to Downgrade Galaxy A52s 5G from One UI 6 (Android 14) to One UI 5 (Android 13)

Step 1: Back Up Your Data

Use Samsung’s Smart Switch or Google Backup.

Step 2: Download Samsung USB Drivers

Install the latest Samsung drivers so your PC connects to your phone smoothly.

Step 3: Download Odin Tool

Get Odin, the official Samsung firmware flashing tool, from a trusted source.

Step 4: Find the Right Firmware

Go to a reliable site like SamMobile and download One UI 5.1 firmware made for your model and region.

Firmware must match your phone’s model number (like SM-A528B).

Step 5: Extract Firmware

Unzip the firmware. You’ll see files with names like BL, AP, CP, CSC.

Step 6: Install TWRP Recovery (Optional)

If you want custom recovery for advanced tweaks, download the right TWRP image for your device.

Use Odin to flash TWRP. Load the TWRP .tar file into the “AP” slot and click Start.

Step 7: Boot Phone Into Download Mode

Power off. Hold Volume Up + Volume Down, plug into PC to enter Download mode.

Step 8: Use Odin to Flash One UI 5.1

In Odin, load AP, BL, CP, CSC files (do not use HOME_CSC if you want a full wipe/clean install).

Click Start and wait. Don’t unplug the phone.

Step 9: Patched vbmeta for Custom ROMs

If you’re flashing custom firmware, flash a patched vbmeta.img or vbmeta.tar first in the AP or USERDATA slot, before TWRP or any custom binary.

Step 10: Finish and Reboot

Phone reboots. Set it up like new.

To Downgrade to One UI 4 or 3 (Android 12 or 11)

The basic process is the same: download matching firmware, boot into Download mode, flash the files in Odin, and set up your device.

To revert further, you may need special “super.img” files and specific steps for erasing and flashing, often possible only with unlocked bootloaders and custom recoveries, and always at your own risk.

Key Tips

• Battery: Charge your phone to at least 60%.
• Matching Firmware: Double-check region and binary version to avoid errors.
• Odin: Never touch your phone cable during flashing.
• After Downgrade: If you see errors or “format data” prompts, follow them to clear old system leftovers.

Possible Issues

• Bootloops (phone keeps restarting)
• No WiFi/data or broken sensors
• Loss of warranty or special features

Quick Troubleshooting

If the phone won’t boot: Try flashing the full firmware with a clean wipe.

If you see “vbmeta error”: Flash patched vbmeta.img.

If stuck in Download mode: Reboot to recovery and format data.

Remember, this guide helps you avoid common mistakes, but working carefully is the best way to get a smooth process. If unsure, ask for help from experienced users on trusted forums.