If your BitBox02 touch sensors feel unresponsive, inaccurate, or behave unexpectedly, this is usually not a hardware defect. In most cases, the issue is related to how capacitive touch sensors work, how the display layout is shown, or how the device adapts to its environment.

This guide explains why this happens and walks you through simple steps to restore normal behavior.

ℹ️ Good to know
BitBox02 uses capacitive touch sensors. Their sensitivity can temporarily change depending on posture, nearby objects, or how the device was handled when plugged in.

 

How the BitBox02 touch sensors work

Your BitBox02 has touch sensors on both sides of the device. These sensors detect changes in electrical conductivity when you touch them.

You can use three gestures:

  • Tap – Select a character or menu item
  • Slide (swipe) – Slide one finger to move through lists or addresses
  • Hold – Touch both sides at the same time to confirm critical actions, such as signing a transaction

Because the sensors rely on conductivity, external factors can occasionally affect how precisely touches are detected.


Display orientation and keyboard layouts (important)

When entering your device password, passphrase, or other text, the BitBox02 display shows two keyboard layouts at the same time:

  • Upper part of the display → shows the next keyboard layout
  • Lower part of the display → shows the currently active layout (this is what you are typing)

If you touch the upper part of the display, the keyboard layout switches. The previously shown “next” layout becomes the active one.

Example:
You may see ABC in large letters on the upper part, while symbols are shown on the lower part. If you touch the upper part, the active layout switches to letters, and a new layout appears on top.

💡 Tip
If characters appear different from what you expect, check the lower part of the display. That always shows the layout you are currently using.

 

This behavior is intentional and often mistaken for a touch sensor issue.


Solution

Follow the steps below in order. In most cases, the issue is resolved after calibration.

Prerequisites

Before troubleshooting, make sure your software is up to date:

  1. Install the latest BitBoxApp from
  2. Check whether a firmware update is available and install it if needed.
     

Sensor calibration

Your BitBox02 calibrates its sensors automatically, but you can help ensure optimal accuracy.

Step 1: Automatic calibration

  1. Plug in your BitBox02.
  2. Do not touch the device for 10 seconds.

This allows the sensors to adjust automatically.

Step 2: Manual calibration

If the issue persists:

  1. Keep the BitBox02 plugged in.
  2. Using one finger, slowly slide along the entire length of each touch-sensitive side.
  3. Apply steady, light pressure from top to bottom on both sides.

This helps the device recognize the full sensor surface.

Sensor calibration does not affect your wallet, funds, settings, or backups.

 

Avoid environmental interference

Because the sensors rely on conductivity, certain conditions can interfere with them.

For best results:

  • Do not place the BitBox02 on metal surfaces (e.g. steel desks)
  • Avoid resting the device on your lap
  • Touch only one sensor area at a time, unless confirming with a hold gesture

If you are using a smartphone:
Thick phone cases, magnetic covers, or wallets attached to the phone can interfere with USB-C connections and electrical grounding.

If your BitBox02 is connected to a phone, remove the phone case and reconnect the device before testing the touch sensors again.

 

Additional tips

If the issue continues, try the following:

  • Make sure your hands are clean and dry
  • Restart your computer or phone and repeat the calibration steps
  • Try a different USB-C cable or USB port
  • Connect the BitBox02 directly, without adapters or hubs
  • Test the device with a different host (for example, an Android phone)

Still having trouble?

If none of the steps above resolve the issue, our support team is happy to help.
To speed up the process, please include the following information in your request:

  • Your computer or phone model and operating system
  • BitBox02 firmware version and BitBoxApp version
  • How the BitBox02 is connected (direct USB-C, adapter, cable used)
  • Which troubleshooting steps you already tried
  • Clear photos or a short video showing the behavior

You can contact us via the official support portal.


Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Is my BitBox02 defective if the touch sensors do not respond?

In most cases, no. Touch sensor behavior is usually affected by calibration or environmental factors and can be resolved using the steps above.

Can sensor calibration damage my device or wallet?

No. Calibration only adjusts touch sensitivity and does not change or erase any data.

Why does the keyboard layout change while I am typing?

The upper part of the display always shows the next layout. Touching it switches layouts. The lower part shows the active layout.

Does this issue affect transaction security?

No. Touch sensor behavior does not affect the security of your wallet or transactions.

Do I need to recalibrate regularly?

No, only if behavior changes