---
title: Firmware Updates
parent: User Guide
nav_order: 13
last_updated: 2026-05-13
description: Update your radio firmware over Bluetooth — OTA process, version channels, pre-flight checks, and recovery.
aliases:
  - firmware
  - update
  - ota
  - flash
---

# Firmware Updates

Keep your Meshtastic radio up to date with the latest firmware for new features, bug fixes, and security improvements.

## Checking for Updates

1. Navigate to **Settings → Firmware Update** or tap the firmware notification if shown.
2. The app checks for available firmware versions.
3. 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:

1. Ensure your radio is connected via Bluetooth.
2. Navigate to the Firmware Update screen.
3. Select the desired firmware version.
4. Tap **Update** to begin the OTA process.
5. Wait for the update to complete — **do not disconnect** during the update.

![Firmware checking for updates](../../assets/screenshots/firmware_checking.png)

> ⚠️ **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.

![Firmware disclaimer](../../assets/screenshots/firmware_disclaimer.png)

### USB Flashing

For recovery or when OTA is unavailable:

- Use the [Meshtastic Web Flasher](https://flasher.meshtastic.org)
- Or the [Meshtastic CLI tool](https://meshtastic.org/docs/getting-started/flashing-firmware) on desktop

## Version Channels

| Canal  | Descripció                                  |
| ------ | ------------------------------------------- |
| Stable | Recommended for most users; tested releases |
| Alpha  | Preview releases; may contain bugs          |

## 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:

![Verifying update and waiting for the device to reconnect](../../assets/screenshots/firmware_verifying.png)

Once the update succeeds:

- The radio will reboot automatically
- Bluetooth connection will re-establish
- Verify your settings are intact
- Check the firmware version in **Settings → About**

![Firmware update success](../../assets/screenshots/firmware_success.png)

## 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

![Firmware update error](../../assets/screenshots/firmware_error.png)

### Device Won't Boot After Update

If your device fails to boot:

1. Try connecting via USB to a computer
2. Use the web flasher in recovery/DFU mode
3. Flash a known-good firmware version
4. 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](connections) — reconnecting after a firmware update
- [Flashing firmware guide](https://meshtastic.org/docs/getting-started/flashing-firmware) — full firmware flashing walkthrough on meshtastic.org
- [Supported devices](https://meshtastic.org/docs/hardware/devices) — check firmware compatibility by device
- [FAQ](https://meshtastic.org/docs/about/faq) — common questions on meshtastic.org

---

