MSM Tools OnePlus 12R: Free download & Use Guide

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By Jenefey Aaron

2025-09-15 / Unlock Android

In case you ever had to flash your OnePlus 12R in order to fix software issues or unbrick the phone, chances are that you have heard about MSM Tools. These tools are frequently discussed in forums and guides as well, yet it is not always clear what these tools are and how they operate. Here, in this guide, we'll share MSM Tools for OnePlus 12R, how you can download and use them, and even offer you a safer alternative to unlocking your device.

Part 1. What Is MSM Tools OnePlus 12R?

1. What is MSM Tools?

MSM Tools for OnePlus 12R (Mobile Station Modem Tools) are Qualcomm's flashing utilities used to fix or restore OnePlus 12R phones with a Qualcomm chipset. For OnePlus devices like OnePlus Ace3 OxygenOS (OnePlus 12R is also known as Ace3), they let you install stock OxygenOS or ColorOS. This is when normal recovery or fastboot won't function.

They place OnePlus into EDL(Emergency Download Mode), which gives direct access to the phone's storage, even if the bootloader is locked or the system is broken. Frequent uses of the OnePlus Flash Tool include:

  • Recovering bricked phones (boot loops, software issues).
  • Returning to stock firmware after trying custom ROMs.
  • Switching between OxygenOS and ColorOS versions.

1.2 Is MSM Tools Safe and Legit for OnePlus 12R?

MSM Tools are generally safe for the OnePlus 12R if used carefully with the correct firmware, but mistakes can cause serious issues. Flashing the wrong files may corrupt the bootloader, break Wi-Fi or network functions, or even brick the device.

Since many versions of MSM Tools are leaked rather than officially released, they're not "official" for public use. Though they are trusted and well-documented by communities like XDA. To stay safe, always back up critical partitions like "ocdt" and "oplusstanvbk," use firmware that exactly matches your device model, and follow reliable XDA OnePlus guides step by step.

Part 2. Top MSM Tools for OnePlus 12R

2.1 MSM Download Tool

What Is the MSM Download Tool?

The MSM Download Tool is a firmware flashing utility for Qualcomm-based phones from brands like OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, and some Vivo models. It's used by service centers and advanced users to install stock firmware, fix bricked devices, remove screen or FRP locks, and manually upgrade or downgrade Android versions. The tool operates in EDL (Emergency Download) Mode, allowing low-level access even if the phone is unresponsive. It only supports Windows OS (7/8/10/11).

How to Free Download MSM Download Tool Latest Version?

Here's how to get the MSM Tools OnePlus 12R download and use it for flashing your OnePlus 12R device:

  • Free download MSM Download Tool from the official MSM Download Tool site or XDA forums (search "OnePlus/Ace MSM Tool" for your device) on your computer. Then, extract files with WinRAR/7-Zip.
  • MSM Download Tool Interface
  • Install PDAnet.exe (USB drivers) and CodeMeterRuntime.exe (license).
  • PDAnet Installation
    CodeMeter Runtime
  • Open CodeMeter Control Center. Then, head to "File." Choose "Import License" to get the license.
  • CodeMeter Control Center
  • Install OEM USB drivers, get the correct firmware for your model, and charge the phone to at least 60%.
  • USB Drivers Installation
  • Next, run the MSM Tool with admin privileges. On the login screen, set "User type" to "Other."
  • run msm download tool
  • Click "Target" and select your device region (EU, India, or O2/Global). Press "Start."
  • Next, power off your phone. Then, press and hold the "Vol Up" and "Vol Down" buttons to place the phone into EDL Mode.
  • Plug your OnePlus 12R phone into your PC and wait for the connected prompt.
  • Device Connected
  • After flashing, the phone should reboot automatically (reboot manually if it doesn't).
  • reboot-motorola
    reboot motorola1

2.2 Best MSM Tool Alternative - 4uKey for Android

Tenorshare 4uKey for Android is the best alternative to MSM Tool as it can unlock the OnePlus 12R without flashing or rooting. First, it's user-friendly and doesn't require technical steps to use.

Secondly, it supports all chipsets, not just Qualcomm, and many popular Android brands like OnePlus, Oppo, Huawei, Redmi, Samsung, etc. The tool is also compatible with the latest Android versions and has an official and credible site. Here's more to know about it:

  • Strong Security: Designed to unlock devices without damaging data where supported and with minimal risk.
  • Easy Operation: User-friendly interface for both Windows and macOS with a straightforward menu.
  • Fast Unlocking: Bypasses a wide variety of lock types like FRP, PIN, Face ID, and fingerprints rapidly.
  • High Success: Offers high success in unlocking Android devices.
  • Built For Performance: Quick, reliable unlocking routines that minimize waiting time and get devices back into functional condition rapidly.
  • Broad Support: Supports 6,000+ Android models and Android versions up to 16.

Here's an example of employing 4uKey for Android for unlocking the OnePlus 12R phone:

  • Get Tenorshare Android Unlocker downloaded on your computer and connect your device.
  • Install and execute 4uKey for Android on your computer. Then, connect your OnePlus 12R phone to the same PC. Tap “Remove Screen Lock.”

    unlock phone with broken screen android
  • Choose the OnePlus brand.

    remove the lock screen passcode from android
  • Next, select “Clear device data (recommended)” from the drop-down. Hit “Start.” The tool will automatically detect the brand of your phone as OnePlus. Hit “Start” again.

    unlock broken screen android tenorshare 4ukey for android
  • Hit “Yes” to confirm unlocking your OnePlus 12R phone. The tool will remove the lock. Once the screen lock is removed, the tool will request to enter Recovery Mode and reset the phone. Hit “Next” to confirm. The tool will complete the screen removal and resetting process.

    how to unlock android phone with broken screen tenorshare 4ukey for android

2.3 Qualcomm QFIL (Complex)

What Is Qualcomm QFIL?

Qualcomm Flash Image Loader (QFIL) is a Windows tool from Qualcomm used to flash stock firmware on Android phones with Qualcomm chipsets, including the OnePlus 12R. It's part of the QPST suite and functions in EDL (Emergency Download) mode, letting you flash even if the phone won't boot.

The tool offers installing or restoring firmware, unbricking devices, backing up and restoring QCN data (important for IMEI and network settings), and showing real-time logs during flashing. QFIL also supports different firmware formats, including Flat Build and Meta Build.

Free Download Qualcomm QFIL

Here's how to download and use Qualcomm QFIL for free:

  • Download QFIL from Qualcomm's portal or XDA. It's part of the QPST suite.
  • Next, install Qualcomm USB drivers. Download the correct firmware (programmer file + rawprogram.xml + patch.xml).
  • Charge your OnePlus 12R phone to at least 60%. Backup data (flashing erases everything).
  • Next, power off your phone. Then, press and hold the "Vol Up" and "Vol Down" buttons to place the phone into EDL Mode.
  • Plug your OnePlus 12R phone into your PC and wait for the connected prompt.
  • Run QFIL.exe as admin. Then, select Flat Build or Meta Build (based on firmware).
  • QFIL Flat Build Selection
  • For example, load Flat Build. For this, pick "Browse." Then, select the programmer file (e.g., prog_emmc_firehose_xxxx.mbn).
  • QFIL Programmer File
    QFIL Browse Programmer
    qualcomm qfil open exe
  • Tap "Load XML" to load the rawprogram.xml and patch.xml files.
  • qualcomm qfil load xml
    qualcomm qfil open xml file
    qualcomm qfil open path
  • Click "Download." Wait 5--15 mins. After "Download Succeed," unplug the phone and reboot it.
qualcomm qfil download com
qualcomm qfil download success

2.4 OPlus Flash Tool (Restricted)

What Is OPlus Flash Tool?

The OPlus Flash Tool is a Windows program used to flash firmware, fix software problems, and perform advanced operations on Oppo, Realme, and OnePlus devices. It supports MediaTek, Qualcomm, and Spreadtrum/Unisoc chipsets. The tool can unbrick devices stuck in boot loops, remove screen locks, bypass FRP, and upgrade or downgrade Android versions.

It also supports installing custom ROMs. While it has a user-friendly interface, some technical knowledge is recommended. Also, using it requires a licensed Auth ID and password, which must be purchased.

Free Download OPlus Flash Tool

Here's how to download and use the Oplus Flash Tool for your OnePlus 12R phone:

  • Official versions of Olplus Flash Tool are rare. But you can download from trusted sources like MobilereDX or BypassFRPFiles, which provide v5.9.11.0 as of 2024.
  • Disable antivirus before installation (may detect false positives).
  • Extract ZIP and install dependencies if included: PDAnet.exe (USB drivers) and CodeMeterRuntime.exe (license).
  • Install the OnePlus/USB drivers on the PC. Download the correct firmware for your device.
  • OPlus Flash Tool Login
  • Have a valid Auth ID and password. Then, run OPlus_Flash.exe as administrator. Log in with the Auth ID (or use Meow Auth Tool for bypass).
  • oplus flash Software Package Management
  • Tap "Import." Next, choose " Software Package Management" to import the OnePlus 12R firmware.
  • oplus flash Import Firmware
    oplus flash Firmware Selection
  • Next, power off your phone. Then, press and hold the "Vol Up" and "Vol Down" buttons to place the phone into EDL Mode.
  • Plug your OnePlus 12R phone into your PC and wait for the connected prompt.
  • Once your phone is detected by OPlus, click "Flash." Then, wait 5--10 minutes.
  • After flashing, disconnect and reboot your phone.
OPlus Flash Complete

Part 3. Bonus Tips For Using MSM Tools Safely

For using the MSM Tools safely, there are some tips you must follow. Here they are:

3.1 Prepare the Right Drivers

Connection issues are the most frequent reason the MSM Tool fails, usually because the correct Qualcomm USB drivers aren't installed. To avoid problems:

  • First, uninstall any old or generic Android drivers using a tool like USBDeview.
  • Then, install the latest OnePlus USB drivers from the official site or trusted forums like XDA.
  • On Windows 10/11, you may need to temporarily disable driver signature enforcement to install the Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008 drivers.
  • Test the connection by putting your phone in EDL mode and checking Device Manager. If it shows "Qualcomm HS-USB QDLoader 9008," the drivers are installed correctly.

3.2 Backup Your Data

The MSM Tool wipes all data on your device, restoring it to factory settings. Anything not backed up, such as photos, videos, messages, apps, or files, will be lost. To stay safe:

  • Sync your photos and contacts with Google.
  • Manually copy important files to a PC, or use OnePlus' backup feature or third-party apps to create a full backup.
  • Remember, you'll need a functional phone to restore the backup after flashing.

3.3 Ensure Stable Power

    Flashing is a critical process that writes crucial system data, and losing power mid-process can brick your phone. To prevent this:

  • Charge your phone to at least 60–80%, and use a stable USB port (avoid hubs or front-panel ports).
  • Furthermore, don’t disturb the phone, cable, or PC while flashing.

3.4 Use Verified Firmware

    Using firmware for the wrong model or region can cause serious problems, like losing network, Wi-Fi, IMEI, or even hard-bricking the phone. To avoid this:

  • Always check your exact model number in Settings > About Phone and download the MSM Tool and firmware only for that model.
  • Only get files from trusted sources like XDA-Developers and avoid unknown websites.

3.5 Double-Check Before Flashing

This final check is your safety net. Taking a moment here can save hours of trouble. Here’s what you should double-check before flashing:

  • Make sure the correct COM port is selected in the MSM Tool and that it shows “Connected.”
  • Double-check you’ve loaded the right “.OPS file” for your OnePlus 12R phone.
  • If you’re using a guide, re-read the last steps before clicking “Start.”
  • Also, close unnecessary programs on your PC to keep the process stable and avoid conflicts.

Part 4. FAQs on MSM Tools OnePlus 12R

Q1. Will MSM Tools erase my data?

Yes. MSM Tools usually wipe your phone completely and restore it to factory settings. Thus, always back up your files before flashing.

Q2. How long does it take to use MSM Tools?

The flashing process normally takes 5–15 minutes with MSM Tools. But setup and driver installation may take a bit longer, depending on your PC.

Q3. Can MSM tools fix a bricked OnePlus 12R?

Yes. If your phone is stuck in a boot loop or won’t turn on properly, MSM Tools can often restore it by flashing the correct firmware.

Conclusion

MSM Tools for the OnePlus 12R are useful for fixing bricked phones, switching between OxygenOS and ColorOS, or restoring stock firmware when recovery or fastboot won’t function. Options like MSM Download Tool, QFIL, and OPlus Flash Tool can get the job done, but they’re technical and risky.

If you want a safer and easier option, Tenorshare 4uKey for Android is a great alternative. It doesn’t need flashing or rooting, and is compatible with many Android brands and chipsets (not just OnePlus and Qualcomm). The tool can also remove many lock types, and doesn’t require technical steps.

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