Launched in 2015 as a 64-bit quad-core Cortex-A53 chip, the MediaTek MT6735 was the king of budget 4G smartphones. Fast forward to 2026, and these devices are officially “vintage” in software terms—most are stuck on Android 5.1 Lollipop or 6.0 Marshmallow.
But here’s the good news: Custom ROMs can transform your MT6735 phone from a laggy, insecure brick into a daily driver again.
Google’s official Go edition features ripped into an AOSP base. The Pixel Experience Go ROM for MT6735 turns your old phone into a Pixel 5a lookalike.
There is no universal TWRP for MT6735. Because the screen resolution and partition sizes vary by OEM (e.g., a Samsung J3 vs. a Doogee X5), TWRP must be ported specifically for each device model.
Assume you want to build an AOSP/Lineage-based ROM for a specific MT6735 device.
The MT6735 Custom ROM scene is a legacy environment. Development has effectively ceased for this platform as of 2021-2022, as the hardware cannot support modern Android versions (Android 12/13/14) efficiently.
Recommendation for Users: If you own an MT6735 device, the best custom ROM option is an Android 10 Go Edition port optimized for 1GB/2GB RAM. These provide the best balance of security, app compatibility, and performance. Users should be cautious of "Android 11/12" ports for this chipset found on YouTube or obscure blogs, as these are usually fake overlays ( skins) running on Android 7 or 8.
Recommendation for Developers: Development on MT6735 is now purely an academic exercise in kernel porting and legacy driver maintenance. For modern custom ROM development, moving to devices with Kernel Source availability (Xiaomi, Poco, Pixel) or devices with Project Treble support is essential.
Breathing New Life into an Old Workhorse: The MT6735 Custom ROM Guide
Released back in 2015, the MediaTek MT6735 was the engine behind dozens of budget-friendly smartphones. While manufacturers have long since abandoned these devices, the enthusiast community hasn’t. Installing a MT6735 custom ROM is the best way to get modern features, improved security, and better performance out of a phone that would otherwise be gathering dust.
Here is everything you need to know about the world of custom software for this classic chipset. Why Install a Custom ROM on an MT6735 Device? mt6735 custom rom
The MT6735 was designed for efficiency, but "stock" software from brands like Micromax, Blu, or Alcatel was often bloated and poorly optimized. A custom ROM offers:
Android Version Upgrades: Many MT6735 phones shipped with Android 5.1 Lollipop. Custom ROMs can often push these devices to Android 7.1 (Nougat) or even Android 9.0 (Pie).
Performance Boost: By removing "bloatware," you free up precious RAM and CPU cycles.
Customization: From UI themes to advanced gesture controls, custom ROMs let you tweak every inch of the interface.
Battery Life: Community-optimized kernels often manage power better than factory software. Popular Custom ROMs for MT6735
Because the MT6735 is a MediaTek chip, many ROMs are "ports" from other devices. Some of the most stable options include:
LineageOS: The gold standard for stability. It provides a clean, "Pixel-like" experience with essential privacy tools.
Resurrection Remix: Known for having the most features. If you want to change every icon and animation, this is the one.
Mokee Open Source: A popular choice for MediaTek devices that focuses on smooth performance and localized features.
CrDroid: Based on LineageOS, it adds extra customization options without sacrificing the snappy feel of the OS. Prerequisites Before Flashing Launched in 2015 as a 64-bit quad-core Cortex-A53
Flashing a ROM is a "pro" move that carries risks. Before you start, ensure you have:
Unlocked Bootloader: Most MT6735 devices require this to accept new software.
Custom Recovery: You will need TWRP (Team Win Recovery Project) specifically compiled for your device model.
VCOM Drivers: Essential for your PC to communicate with the MediaTek hardware.
SP Flash Tool: The "holy grail" for MediaTek users. This tool allows you to flash firmware or recover a "bricked" device. The Basic Installation Process
While every phone is slightly different, the general workflow for an MT6735 device looks like this:
Backup Everything: Use TWRP to create a "Nandroid" backup of your current system.
Wipe the Device: Perform a "Factory Reset" and wipe the Dalvik, System, and Data partitions in TWRP.
Flash the ROM: Select the .zip file of your chosen ROM and swipe to install.
Flash GApps: Most custom ROMs don't include Google Play Services. You’ll need to flash a "GApps" package (OpenGApps is a popular choice). Google’s official Go edition features ripped into an
Reboot: The first boot can take up to 10 minutes. Be patient! A Word of Caution: The MediaTek Factor
MediaTek chipsets are notoriously difficult for developers because the source code isn't always public. This leads to common bugs in MT6735 ROMs, such as:
NVRAM Warnings: Wi-Fi errors caused by losing your IMEI/MAC address data.
Camera/Flashlight Issues: Often the hardest drivers to port correctly.
GPS Drops: MediaTek GPS is famously finicky on custom software.
Pro Tip: Always check the "Known Bugs" list on the forum thread where you found the ROM before installing. Final Thoughts
The MT6735 may be an aging platform, but it remains a favorite for hobbyists. Whether you want to use an old phone as a dedicated music player, a backup navigation device, or just a fun weekend project, a custom ROM can make it feel brand new.
Do you have a specific device model (e.g., Moto E3 Power, Infinix Hot 3) that you are looking to mod today?
To flash a ROM safely, you need respect for the hardware.
Unlike Qualcomm’s EDL mode, MediaTek uses SP Flash Tool and BROM (BootROM) mode. This makes the MT6735 nearly unbrickable if you know what you are doing, but also more dangerous if you mix up preloader files.
Crucial Warning: MT6735 is notorious for different hardware revisions (MT6735M, MT6735P, MT6735V). Always verify your exact variant using Device Info HW before downloading any custom ROM.