How to update R36s console?

Updating your R36S is essential for stability, new features, and emulator improvements—but it requires manual steps since the device lacks Wi-Fi. Here’s how to do it safely, based on your firmware (ArkOS or RetroArena):

⚠️ Before You Begin: Critical Prep

  1. Backup Saves & ROMs
    Copy everything from your TF2 (GAMES) SD card to a PC.

  2. Use Quality SD Cards
    Replace stock cards with reputable brands (SanDisk/Samsung).

  3. Note Your Firmware
    Check in EmulationStation > System Settings > System Info.

🔄 Method 1: Full OS Reflash (Recommended)

Best for major updates or corrupted systems.

Steps:

  1. Download Latest OS Image:

  2. Flash the Image:

    • Use BalenaEtcher (Windows/Mac/Linux).

    • Select the downloaded .img.gz file and your TF1 (OS) SD card.

    • Click Flash (this erases the card!).

  3. Reinsert Cards:

    • Put the newly flashed OS card in TF1.

    • Put your original GAMES card (TF2) back.

  4. First Boot:

    • The R36S will rebuild configurations (takes 2-5 minutes).

    • Your ROMs/saves will appear!

📡 Method 2: Update via USB Tethering (ArkOS Only)

For minor updates without reflashing.

Requirements:

  • USB-C OTG adapter + USB cable to PC.

  • Working internet on your PC.

Steps:

  1. Enable Network:

    • Go to Options > Network Settings > Enable Network.

  2. Connect to PC:

    • Plug R36S → OTG → USB cable → PC.

  3. Open SSH Terminal:

    • Windows: Use PuTTY.

    • Mac/Linux: Open Terminal → ssh root@169.254.215.100 (default IP).

    • Password: arkos.

  4. Run Update Commands:

    bash
    Copy
    Download 
    arkos-update  # Updates ArkOS core
arkos-update emus  # Updates emulators

  5. Reboot: Type reboot in SSH or power cycle manually.

📂 Method 3: Manual File Replacement (Advanced)

For updating specific emulators/configs.

  1. Access Files: Use WinSCP over USB tethering (IP: 169.254.215.100, user: root, password: arkos).

  2. Replace Core Files:

    • Update RetroArch: Overwrite /opt/retroarch folder.

    • Update Emulators: Replace /roms/emulators files.

  3. Set Permissions: In SSH:

    bash
    Copy
    Download 
    chmod +x /roms/emulators/*.sh  # Make scripts executable

❌ What NOT to Do

  • Don’t use "OTA Update" in menus (often broken on R36S).

  • Never unplug during flashing (corrupts SD card).

  • Avoid stock SD cards—they fail mid-update!

🔧 Post-Update Checklist

  1. Reconfigure Settings:

    • Controls, Wi-Fi (for scraping), and video options reset.

  2. Scrape Game Art:

    • In EmulationStation, press Select > Scraper.

  3. Test Key Games:
    Check PS1/N64 titles for performance tweaks.

⚡ Why Update?

  • Fixes audio/video glitches.

  • Adds new systems (e.g., Dreamcast, PSP).

  • Improves battery life and button responsiveness.

  • Patches security flaws.

💀 Troubleshooting Failed Updates

  • Black Screen? Reflash the OS card (Method 1).

  • ROMs missing? Ensure TF2 card is formatted as FAT32 (not exFAT/NTFS).

  • Stuck on boot? Hold SELECT during startup to access ArkOS Toolbox > Reset Configs.

Pro Tip: Join the R36S Subreddit or Retro Handhelds Discord for update alerts and pre-configured images!

Updating takes 15 minutes but unlocks months of smoother gameplay. Done it? Share your experience below! 👇