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title, parent, nav_order, last_updated, description, aliases
| title | parent | nav_order | last_updated | description | aliases | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Firmware Updates | User Guide | 13 | 2026-07-07 | Update your radio firmware over Bluetooth or USB — OTA process, version channels, pre-flight checks, and recovery. |
|
Firmware Updates
Keep your Meshtastic radio up to date with the latest firmware for new features, bug fixes, and security improvements.
Checking for Updates
- Open the connected radio's configuration and, under Advanced, tap Firmware Update. The entry appears only for OTA-capable devices.
- The app checks for available firmware versions.
- Available updates show the version number and changelog summary.
Update Methods
OTA (Over-The-Air) via Bluetooth
The most common update method for Android users:
- Ensure your radio is connected via Bluetooth.
- Navigate to the Firmware Update screen.
- Select the desired firmware version.
- Tap Update to begin the OTA process.
- Wait for the update to complete — do not disconnect during the update.
⚠️ Warning: Interrupting a firmware update can brick your device. Ensure your radio has sufficient battery (>50% recommended) and maintain Bluetooth proximity during the entire process.
In-App USB Update
When your radio is connected over USB/serial (rather than Bluetooth), the Firmware Update screen offers USB File Transfer. The app reboots the device into DFU mode, then prompts you to save the .uf2 file to the device's DFU drive using the system file picker. This option appears only on a USB/serial connection — it is not available over Bluetooth.
ℹ️ nRF bootloader note: Some devices (e.g. RAK WisBlock RAK4631) need their bootloader flashed with the vendor's serial DFU tool (such as
adafruit-nrfutil) — copying the.uf2alone won't update the bootloader. The app surfaces a hint when this applies.
Other Flashing Options
For recovery or when neither OTA nor in-app USB is available:
- Use the Meshtastic Web Flasher
- Or the Meshtastic CLI tool on desktop
Version Channels
| Channel | Description |
|---|---|
| Stable | Recommended for most users; tested releases |
| Alpha | Preview releases; may contain bugs |
| Local File | Flash a firmware file you select yourself, instead of a downloaded release |
Pre-Update Checklist
Before updating:
- Battery > 50%
- Stable Bluetooth connection
- Note your current settings (they may reset on major version changes)
- Check the release notes for breaking changes
Post-Update
After the firmware is written, the app verifies the update and waits for the device to come back online:
Once the update succeeds:
- The radio will reboot automatically
- Bluetooth connection will re-establish
- Verify your settings are intact
- Confirm the new version under Currently Installed on the Firmware Update screen — it's also shown on the node's detail page and the Connections screen
Troubleshooting
Update Stuck
If the update appears frozen:
- Wait at least 5 minutes before intervening
- If truly stuck, power-cycle the radio
- Attempt the update again
Device Won't Boot After Update
If your device fails to boot:
- Try connecting via USB to a computer
- Use the web flasher in recovery/DFU mode
- Flash a known-good firmware version
- Check the Meshtastic Discord for device-specific recovery steps
Compatibility Warnings
The app may show warnings when:
- Connected radio firmware is below minimum supported version
- Major version mismatch between app and firmware
- Deprecated features need migration
⚠️ Important: Always update the Meshtastic app before or alongside firmware updates to ensure compatibility.
Related Topics
- Connections — reconnecting after a firmware update
- Flashing firmware guide — full firmware flashing walkthrough on meshtastic.org
- Supported devices — check firmware compatibility by device
- FAQ — common questions on meshtastic.org