ADB sideload is a valuable tool for Android debugging that has been available since the release of Android Jellybean. It acts as a bridge between Android devices and Windows PCs, allowing users to enhance their device’s performance and install mod applications. However, many users encounter issues with ADB sideload not working, particularly errors related to file reading. In this article, we will explore several effective methods to fix ADB sideload not working, showing error cannot read file.
Fix 1: Try Google’s ADB Drivers
When encountering ADB sideload not working issues, it is crucial to use reliable drivers. While there are various ADB and Fastboot drivers available, it is recommended to opt for Google’s drivers for optimal performance. To begin, download the Android SDK from the official website and extract the zip file. Rename the extracted folder to “platform-tools.” By following these steps, you can ensure a more stable sideloading process.
Fix 2: Cross-Check ADB Connection
If you’re still experiencing problems with ADB sideload, it’s essential to verify the ADB connection between your Android device and Windows PC. Start by enabling USB debugging on your Android device. Access the “Settings” menu, navigate to “About Phone,” tap on “Version,” and then tap on “Build number” multiple times to enter developer mode. Return to the “Settings” menu, select “Additional Settings” > “Developer Option,” and enable USB debugging. Connect your device to the PC using a USB cable and open the platform-tools folder. Right-click on the blank space and choose to open with Command Prompt or PowerShell. In the Command Prompt or PowerShell window, enter the command “adb devices” to check the connection status. If you see an alphanumeric ID followed by the word “device,” it means the connection is successful. However, if you see the word “unauthorized,” you will need to approve the connection on your Android device.
Fix 3: Give Proper Name and Location
Incorrect file names or storage locations can cause ADB sideload not working errors. Ensure that you have given the file a simple name, such as “sideload.zip,” to avoid any issues. Additionally, make sure the file is stored within the platform-tools folder to prevent any directory-related problems. By adhering to these guidelines, you can minimize the chances of encountering the “cannot read file” error.
Fix 4: Use Original USB Cable for Sideloading
Using the original USB cable that came with your smartphone is crucial when performing sideloading tasks. While this may seem like a basic requirement, using a non-original cable or a USB 3.0 port can lead to compatibility issues. To prevent ADB sideload not working errors, connect your device using the original USB cable and opt for a USB 2.0 port.
Fix 5: Use Full Firmware
Smartphone manufacturers release device updates in two forms: incremental and full ROM. If your device features stock firmware, it is recommended to start with the incremental update to resolve any problems. To differentiate between the incremental and full ROM files, consider their file sizes. The larger file size indicates the full ROM. Begin by trying the incremental update and check if the issue is resolved. If not, proceed to sideload the full firmware to address the problem. After completing the flashing process, verify if the ADB sideload not working error persists.
Fix 6: Make Windows Compatible With Large ADB Address
By default, Windows is not equipped to handle large ADB addresses. If you attempt to perform ADB sideload with a relatively large file, Windows may fail to allocate the required memory. To overcome this issue, you need to make Windows compatible with large ADB addresses. This ensures a smoother sideloading process and prevents the “cannot read file” error.
Fix 7: Use TWRP Recovery
If you have already unlocked the bootloader of your Android device, you can resolve ADB sideload not working issues using TWRP recovery. TWRP recovery is a custom recovery option that offers additional functionality. Before proceeding with this method, make sure your device is compatible with custom recovery. Follow these steps to fix the ADB sideload not working error using TWRP recovery:
- Download TWRP recovery for your Android device from the official website or Xda-developers.
- Copy the downloaded file (twrp.img) and the sideload.zip file to the platform-tools folder.
- Open the platform-tools folder, right-click on the blank space, and choose to open with Command Prompt or PowerShell.
- In the Command Prompt or PowerShell window, enter the command “adb reboot bootloader” to activate fast boot mode on your device.
- Next, enter the command “fastboot boot twrp.img” to boot your device into TWRP recovery.
- In the TWRP recovery menu, select the “Advanced” option and choose ADB sideload.
- Swipe on the screen to initiate the sideloading process.
- In the Command Prompt window, enter the command “adb sideload update.zip” to flash the firmware using the sideloading process.
Once the flashing process is complete, you should no longer encounter the ADB sideload not working error.
Final Words
In conclusion, encountering ADB sideload not working errors can be frustrating, but there are several effective solutions available. In this article, we have explored various methods to resolve the “cannot read file” error. It is essential to follow the recommended steps, such as using Google’s ADB drivers, cross-checking the ADB connection, giving proper names and locations to files, using the original USB cable, utilizing full firmware, making Windows compatible with large ADB addresses, and leveraging TWRP recovery. By implementing these fixes, you can overcome the ADB sideload not working issues and enjoy a smooth sideloading experience on your Android device.
Remember to always backup your files before proceeding with any troubleshooting steps, as some actions may result in data loss. We hope that this article has been helpful in resolving your ADB sideload not working problems. If you have any questions or further issues, feel free to leave a comment below. Happy sideloading!
Additional Information: It is important to note that ADB sideload is a powerful tool that should be used with caution. Ensure that you thoroughly understand the process before proceeding and follow any warnings or instructions provided by the device manufacturer.
Experiencing difficulties with your Device, check out our “How To” page on how to resolve some of these issues.
