A step-by-step guide to enabling ADB and installing compatible third-party apps on your BYD or Denza vehicle.
What is ADB Enablement?
ADB (Android Debug Bridge) enablement gives you access to install compatible third-party apps on your BYD's infotainment system — sentry mode, dashcam recording, wireless CarPlay for Chinese phones, and more.
BYD's ordinary consumer settings do not expose the ADB switches. On compatible software, they appear later inside the vehicle's factory menu after its QR step is completed.
Step 1: Check Compatibility
Compatibility depends on the vehicle's current infotainment UI—not solely on its DiLink hardware generation or software build number. Vehicles with 5.0 UI or newer are generally supported; this is often described online as "DiLink 5+." BYD can upgrade the UI generation through an OTA update without changing the hardware, so some vehicles with older DiLink hardware may still be compatible.
The definitive check: dial *#91532547#* on the infotainment. If the QR menu opens, the vehicle is generally eligible for the service. If nothing happens, the current UI does not expose the required QR process.
Chinese-spec vehicles: if the QR page only offers "Scan with WeCom"—without a VDS option or blue selection button—a working China-routed VPN must already be installed and active on the vehicle's infotainment for the scheduled QR step.
Step 2: Access the QR Code Page
This is where most people get stuck. Here's how to access the hidden QR code page:
- Open the Bluetooth phone dialer on your infotainment screen (NOT the regular phone app — use the one in the Bluetooth settings)
- Enter the secret code: *#91532547#*
- Should automatically redirect — if not, check the code was entered correctly
- The vehicle's QR menu should open
- A temporary QR code appears on screen
Important: Generate the QR code only at the scheduled time while both sides are online. The screen may label it "expired" after about 60 seconds, but the same code may still be processed within its roughly five-minute window. Do not refresh unless BAOLAB asks you to—refreshing creates a different QR code.
Step 3: Complete the Scheduled QR Step
BAOLAB provides remote assistance while you complete the vehicle's existing QR process. The standard live session is typically completed in about five minutes once both sides are online. The service does not root the vehicle, flash firmware, or modify the firmware.
View pricing and book the ADB Enablement Service →
First: turn on these two switches
The QR step opens the factory menu. Keep the vehicle parked and enable both options on the infotainment screen:
- wireless adb switch
- enable debugging mode after USB connection
Labels may vary with vehicle software. If your menu looks different, stop and send BAOLAB a photo rather than changing unrelated factory settings.
Then: choose how to install apps
Once you have a working connection, follow the ADB Rescue guide.
Step 4: Install Apps via USB
Once ADB is enabled, connect a computer or Android device to the correct vehicle USB data port and use standard Android ADB tools:
- Download the APK files you want to install (see our App Library)
- Install Android Platform Tools on the computer or use a suitable ADB app on Android
- Connect with a USB data cable and accept any connection prompt shown by the infotainment
- Check the connection: run
adb devices - Install the APK: run
adb install app.apk, replacing the filename with the APK you downloaded
App compatibility is separate from vehicle compatibility. Match the APK to the vehicle's Android version and install only software you trust.
Step 5: Install Apps Wirelessly (Advanced)
For wireless installation, you'll need to enable wireless ADB:
- Connect your car to WiFi (home WiFi or mobile hotspot)
- Enable wireless ADB in the factory mode settings
- Open terminal/command prompt on your computer (no admin privileges needed)
- Use ADB commands:
adb connect [car-ip-address]:5555
adb install app.apkHow it works: adb connect links your computer to the car over WiFi. adb install sends the APK file from your computer to the car and installs it directly. The APK needs to be on your computer — no need to copy it to the car first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will this void my warranty?
A: Enabling ADB and installing third-party applications may affect warranty decisions, servicing, and support outcomes. We recommend asking your dealer. BAOLAB is an independent aftermarket business and is not affiliated with or endorsed by BYD or Denza.
Q: Can I disable ADB later?
A: The ADB switches can be turned off from the factory menu while that menu remains available. A system reboot, OTA update, or factory reset may also remove ADB access.
Q: How long will ADB stay enabled?
A: Persistence varies by vehicle and software release. BAOLAB verified that ADB remained enabled on our own Denza B8 through updates 2512 → 2603 → 2607, but that result is not a guarantee for every vehicle. Install BYD ADB Rescue promptly; BAOLAB customers also receive six months of free re-activation under the service terms.
Q: Will enabling ADB stop OTA updates?
A: We have not observed ADB enablement stopping OTA delivery on our Denza B8. However, an OTA update may change or remove ADB access, so persistence cannot be guaranteed.
Q: Is the enablement process safe?
A: The service uses the vehicle's existing QR and factory-menu flow and does not root the system, flash firmware, or modify firmware. Third-party apps are separate software and carry their own compatibility and security risks.
Q: Are third-party APKs guaranteed?
A: No. BAOLAB does not develop most listed apps and cannot guarantee every APK, update, or vehicle combination. Use trusted sources, check the Android version, and keep backups of important data.
Need Help?
After purchase, reply to your BAOLAB scheduling or support email if you need help. The amount of app-installation assistance included depends on the service tier purchased.
Ready to get started? Get the ADB Enablement Service → ($149 AUD, 6-month free re-activation included)