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Meshtastic-Android/docs/en/user/firmware.md
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---
title: Firmware Updates
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
| Channel | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| 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 a successful update:
- 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
---