Bluetooth Device Connection
The Meshtastic app connects to your radio over Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). You can manage multiple radios and switch between them without re-pairing.
Connecting a Radio
- Power on your Meshtastic radio.
- Open the app and tap the Connect tab.
- The app scans for nearby devices automatically when you are not connected.
- Tap your device name in the list to connect.
The app remembers your preferred device and reconnects automatically when the radio is in range.
Disconnecting a Radio
Swipe left on a connected radio in the Connect view and tap Disconnect. The radio continues operating on the mesh — it just stops syncing with the app.
Live Activity
Long press a connected radio row to start a Live Activity (iOS 16.2+). The Live Activity shows mesh status on your Lock Screen and in Dynamic Island.
Managing Multiple Radios
You can pair multiple radios but only one is active at a time. Switch between them by tapping a different device in the Connect view.
BLE Signal Strength
The app displays the Bluetooth signal strength of nearby devices during scanning:
Connection Status Icons
| Icon | Meaning |
|---|---|
 | Connected via BLE |
 | Reconnecting / retrying |
 | Connected via TCP/IP |
 | Connected via serial (macOS) |
Troubleshooting
Radio not appearing in the list
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled in iOS Settings → Bluetooth.
- Move within 10 metres of the radio.
- Restart the radio.
Connection drops repeatedly
- Check battery level on the radio.
- Try forgetting the device in iOS Settings → Bluetooth and reconnecting.
App asks for Bluetooth permission
- Grant permission in iOS Settings → Privacy & Security → Bluetooth → Meshtastic.
Tip — Connected Radio Swipe left to disconnect. Long press to start the Live Activity.