Installation guide for ArkOS 2.0 for HandheldConsoles

Here’s a helpful video walking through the process of installing ArkOS firmware on an R36s console (via Windows), which applies similarly to devices like the R36S or BatleXP G350. Below, I’ve distilled that into a detailed, step-by-step written guide, enhanced with extra context and resources:

Link for the Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hBv7LxDyli8

All credit goes to JoeRetroGaming.

ArkOS 2.0 Installation Guide for R36S / BatleXP G350

1. Download the ArkOS Image

Head to the official ArkOS Wiki and locate the correct image for your device (e.g., R36S). These come in .xz format.
R36S
Consider using the Community Maintained Image for your device model—they’re often more up-to-date.
R36S

2. Extract the Image

Use tools like 7-Zip (Windows) or The Unarchiver (Mac) to extract the .img file from the .xz archive.
R36S

3. Format Your MicroSD Card (Recommended)

It’s best to use quality cards (e.g., SanDisk 64 GB, Samsung 128 GB); avoid the stock cards that came with your console.
Joey’s Retro Handhelds
Format the card using the official sdcard.org formatter. This prepares a clean environment for flashing.
R36S

4. Flash the Image to MicroSD

Use flashing tools like Rufus, Win32DiskImager (Windows), or ApplePiBaker (Mac).
Avoid Balena Etcher if it causes issues.
R36S
In tools like Win32DiskImager:
1. Select the .img file.
2. Choose your SD card drive.
3. Click “Write” and confirm.
  teamxnl.com
If you encounter errors, consider using Disk Management to delete existing partitions and create a single new one before flashing.
teamxnl.com

5. Copy the Correct Display (DTB) Files

After flashing, open the BOOT partition on the microSD card and replace the display files (DTBs) with the correct version for your device.
teamxnl.com
If you see a white, flickering, or blank screen upon boot, retry with a different DTB to resolve display issues.
Joey’s Retro Handhelds teamxnl.com Reddit

6. Boot the Device

Insert the microSD into the console’s OS slot (typically TF-OS or SD1), with the device powered off.
Power on — the system will auto-resize partitions and boot for the first time.
R36S Joey’s Retro Handhelds
If using a single card, you’re basically done once ArkOS boots.

7. (Optional) Dual-Card Setup

Use a second microSD formatted as exFAT for ROM storage.
Insert the second card into the “GAME” slot (e.g., TF-GAME/SD2).
In ArkOS, navigate to Options → Advanced → Switch to SD2 for ROMs to set up ROM folders on the second card.
R36S Joey’s Retro Handhelds

8. Add ROMs & BIOS

Open the EASYROMS partition (either on the same card or second card, depending on setup).
Copy your legally obtained ROM files into their respective folders (e.g., PSX, NES).
Joey’s Retro Handhelds

9. Enable Wi-Fi & Optional Features

Go to Options → Enable Remote Services, then Update to get the latest builds.
Joey’s Retro Handhelds
For box art, use Scraper (requires a ScreenScraper account).
Add RetroAchievements support via RetroArch → Settings → Achievements, and save configuration.
Joey’s Retro Handhelds

Quick Reference Table

Step	Action
1	Download correct ArkOS image
2	Extract `.img` from `.xz`
3	Format MicroSD (sdcard.org tool recommended)
4	Flash image using Rufus / Win32DiskImager
5	Replace DTB files in BOOT partition
6	Boot device — ensure ArkOS loads
7	(Optional) Format and set up second ROMs card
8	Add ROMs/BIOs to EASYROMS
9	Enable Wi-Fi, update & optional enhancements

Notes for BatleXP G350 Users

If BatleXP G350 supports ArkOS similarly to R36S, follow the same process. Make sure to use the correct DTB files—those for your device’s panel—to avoid display issues.
If you hit screen or boot errors, look for community guides or specific DTB bundles for G350 models on Reddit or GitHub.
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