R36S Mise à jour : Comment mettre à jour votre console rétro en toute simplicité ?

R36S Update: How to easily update your retro console?

Have you fallen for the R36S console and want to get the most out of it? Good news: a simple update can change everything.
To update your R36S , simply download the latest version of ArkOS or RetroArch, copy it to your SD card, and then follow a few configuration steps.
In less than 15 minutes, you can enjoy a faster console, compatible with even more games, and equipped with new features.

This article explains why it's useful , which versions to choose , and how to update without errors . If you want to get the most out of your retro handheld console, this is where it starts.

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🔧 Performance Improvement

New firmware versions optimize emulation speed, reduce slowdowns, and improve overall smoothness. Menus are more responsive, loading times are shorter, and the console runs cooler. An update often provides a real performance boost.

🎮 Improved compatibility with ROMs

Are some ROMs failing to launch or crashing? This could be due to an outdated version of RetroArch or the emulator you're using. Updates ensure better compatibility with the latest dumps and patches. As a result, you can play more games with fewer bugs .

🧠 New emulators and fixes

Each update may include:

  • new emulation cores (e.g., improved Dreamcast compatibility, Nintendo DS enhancements, etc.)
  • audio/video fixes
  • functional additions (quick save, filters, controller shortcuts…)

This is the best way to keep your R36S up-to-date and in top condition.

Which version should I use to update the R36S? (ArkOS, RetroArch, etc.)

Recommended versions

To fully enjoy your R36S portable console , two systems are currently considered the most reliable and complete:

  • ArkOS : the most popular system on the R36S. Lightweight, fast, and regularly updated, it's optimized for multi-console emulation (PS1, SNES, GBA, MAME, etc.). It's ideal if you want a clean interface, high stability, and good compatibility with external controllers.
  • RetroArch : This emulation interface is often integrated into ArkOS, but it can also be used independently. It's very powerful and allows for precise configuration of each virtual console. Ideal for users who want to fully customize their experience.

If you're a beginner, ArkOS is the simplest and most stable solution . If you're an advanced user, you can add RetroArch to take advantage of advanced options.

Where to download safely

⚠️ Warning: Many websites offer modified or outdated versions. To avoid bugs or corrupted files, here are the official and reliable sources:

Before installing anything, remember to back up your current SD card . This will allow you to revert to the previous version in case of any mistakes.

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Steps to update the R36S

Updating your R36S might seem technical, but by following these simple steps, you'll ensure your console is up-to-date, runs more smoothly, and is compatible with even more games. Here's the step-by-step guide:

📥 Download the necessary files

First, identify the version of your current system (ArkOS or other). Then go to the official website of the desired system:

Download the disk image (.img) or update files corresponding to your R36S model.

💾 Format and prepare the SD card

  1. Insert the microSD card into your computer.
  2. Back up all your personal files (ROMs, save files, etc.).
  3. Use a tool like Balena Etcher or SD Card Formatter to properly format the card.
  4. If you are installing a new image, flash it directly with Balena Etcher.

💡 Tip: Use a high-quality microSD card (class 10 minimum) for optimal performance.

🔄 Copy system files

If you are updating without reflashing an image, simply copy the update files to the correct directory (often an “update” folder at the root of the SD card).
Afterwards :

  • Eject the card cleanly.
  • Put it back in your R36S.
  • Start the console.

The update will be automatically detected and applied.

🚀 Restarting and checking for updates

Once the update is complete, restart your R36S handheld console .
Go to system settings to check the version number and test a few games to confirm that everything is working properly.

Back up your games and save files before updating the R36S

Before updating your R36S console , it is essential to back up your games and progress files. Improper handling or an error during the process could result in data loss. Here's how to avoid any risk:

How to avoid losses

  1. Connect the R36S SD card to your computer via a suitable reader.
  2. Copy the entire contents of the card ( roms , saves , emulators folders, etc.) into a dedicated folder on your computer.
  3. Check that all your ROMs and game saves have been copied correctly.
  4. Keep this copy until the update is complete and everything is working.

💾 Save files are often found in folders like saves , states or inside subfolders specific to each emulator.

Tip: Use two SD cards

For even more security (and convenience):

  • Purchase a second microSD card , identical to or superior to the first.
  • Clone the full image of your current card using a tool like Win32DiskImager (Windows) or ApplePi Baker (Mac).
  • Keep the original intact and use the copy to perform the update.

🔁 In case of a problem, you can then put the original card back in and get your R36S back exactly as it was before.

Common problems and solutions

While updating your R36S console is usually straightforward, problems can sometimes arise. Here are the most common errors and how to fix them quickly:

Console locked after the update?

  • Symptoms : the R36S no longer starts, screen is frozen or stuck on the logo.
  • Solutions :
    • Verify that all system files have been copied to the root of the SD card.
    • Try reinserting the SD card or using another test card.
    • If in doubt, redo the update with a clean version of ArkOS.

Black screen at startup?

  • Symptoms : the console turns on, but nothing is displayed.
  • Solutions :
    • Make sure that the boot.scr file is present in the root directory.
    • Plug the console into mains power: a low battery can prevent proper startup.
    • Test an external display if available (rare, but useful for diagnosis).

Problem with an emulator?

  • Symptoms : games that won't launch, slowdowns, visual bugs.
  • Solutions :
    • Update the RetroArch cores from the system menu.
    • Check the compatibility of your ROM (format, version, region).
    • Use a tested ROM known to work on R36S.

🎯 In 90% of cases, simply copying the correct files is enough to solve the problem.

Where can I find help for my R36S?

If you encounter a problem that you cannot solve, please note that there is an active community around the R36S console:

Useful Forums & Communities:

  • Reddit : r/SBCGaming or r/RetroHandhelds for guides, tips and user feedback.
  • Discord : several ArkOS and R36S servers offer responsive community support.
  • Specialized websites :
    • Retro Game Corps (complete tutorials in English)
    • French-language blogs by enthusiasts (to be found via Google or YouTube).

💬 The advantage of these communities? You will find tutorials, tested updates, and often personalized answers to your problem.

Updating your R36S handheld console isn't just about performance; it's about unlocking its full potential. Whether it's improving compatibility with your favorite games, discovering new emulators, or fixing annoying bugs, an up-to-date R36S guarantees a smooth, modern gaming experience... that's still 100% retro.


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