Install Sony Concept 6.0.1 Marshmallow ROM on Xperia Z3

Sony recently launched an interesting new program called the Sony Concept. This program features an AOSP (stock Android) build of the latest version of Android – Marshmallow 6.0.1. Sony Concept Software brings Marshmallow to a select number of devices in the Xperia line. The Xperia Z3 Compact is one of the few smartphones that Sony has included in its Concept program.

The Xperia Z3 is still a pretty good smartphone in 2016. It comes with a 5.2 inch Full HD display and a quad-core Snapdragon 801 processor. You also get 3 GB RAM, 16 GB / 32 GB internal storage and a 20.7 MP camera on the back.

In today’s post, we are going to discuss the best way to install Sony Concept 6.0.1 Marshmallow ROM on the Z3. The Z3 currently runs on Android 5.1.1 Lollipop. If you have been waiting for the Marshmallow update, it could take a little longer before Sony decides to push it out. So far, there have been few signs of this. So if you cannot wait for the official update, you can go the Sony Concept route and get a first-hand experience of Marshmallow.

Flash Sony Concept Marshmallow ROM on Xperia Z3

Follow these simple steps to backup your TA partition (extremely important as it stores the phone’s DRM keys) and flash the Sony Concept Marshmallow firmware on the Z3.

Prerequisites

• Sony Concept Marshmallow FTF file: D6603_Marshmallow_Concept.ftf | Mirror.
• Flashtool – here.
• TA Backup Tool – here.

For starters, we recommend you to test waters with just flashing the Marshmallow ROM. You can follow the source link if you want to root, flash a custom recovery, install Xposed and enable other features.

Installing the Marshmallow firmware is extremely easy. Just follow the two steps listed below.

Step 1: Backup TA Partition

One of the most important things to consider while modifying a Sony Xperia phone is backing up the TA partition. The reason is that this partition stores the DRM keys unique to your phone. Features like image processing depend on these keys for quality.

Unzip the TA Backup Tool you’ve downloaded above. Now, connect your Z3 to your computer. In the unzipped TA Backup Tool folder, you will find a file called backup-ta.bat. Run the file and follow the steps.

Step 2: Install Marshmallow firmware using the Flashtool

Download and install the Flashtool from the link above. Once you’ve done that, following these simple steps:

• Open Explorer. Go to C:\Flashtool\Drivers. Double click on flashmode and fastboot to install the two drivers.
• Copy the Marshmallow TFT file downloaded above to C:\Users\Yourname\.flashTool\firmwares.
• Open the Flashtool. Click on Flash Devices -> Flash Mode. You will now be able to see the Marshmallow TFT file you copied in the previous step.
• Now check APPS_LOG and USERDATA options.
• Click on Flash. Follow the steps; when the Flashtool prompts you about using scripts, click on No.

The Flashtool will now begin flashing the Marshmallow firmware on your Xperia Z3. The process may take a while, so remain patient. Once the flashing is complete, check if there are any software updates available.

Let us know how you like the AOSP Marshmallow experience on your Xperia Z3.

Also see:

Install Sony AOSP Concept Marshmallow ROM on Xperia Z3 Compact