This article explains which operating systems and device types are compatible with the BitBoxApp and the BitBox02 hardware wallet.
You will also learn about limitations on certain platforms, including iOS restrictions and Android-based systems.
Download the BitBoxApp safely
Download the BitBoxApp only from the official source:
→ https://bitbox.swiss/app/
The website automatically provides the correct version for your operating system.
Never download the BitBoxApp from third-party websites.
These may provide outdated or modified versions that compromise your security.
Supported desktop operating systems
The BitBoxApp supports the following 64-bit desktop operating systems:
| Operating System | Minimum Version |
| Windows | 10 |
| macOS | 12 |
| Debian | 11.6 |
| Ubuntu | 22.04 |
| Fedora | 36 |
| openSUSE | Rolling release |
The BitBoxApp supports 64-bit systems only.
32-bit systems are not supported and cannot run the app.
Supported mobile operating systems
You can use the BitBoxApp on supported mobile platforms as outlined below.
| Platform | Supported devices | Minimum OS version | Requirements / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android | Android smartphones and tablets | Android 9 | Requires USB OTG support |
| iOS | iPhone and iPad | iOS 16 | Only supported with BitBox02 Nova |
iOS compatibility and limitations
Due to Apple’s USB-C and system restrictions, the BitBox02 standard edition cannot communicate with iOS devices.
The BitBox02 Nova uses a custom Bluetooth communication protocol (“Whisper”), which enables secure communication with iOS devices.
Summary:
- BitBox02 Nova → works with iOS
- BitBox02 standard edition → not supported on iOS
Version compatibility between BitBoxApp and firmware
Firmware updates are distributed through the BitBoxApp.
Important rule:
- Update the BitBoxApp
- Then update the firmware
Older app versions may not support newer firmware.
Android-based operating systems (GrapheneOS, /e/OS, Volla OS)
The BitBoxApp may also work on Android-based operating systems such as:
- GrapheneOS
- /e/OS
- Volla OS
If the system is based on Android 9 or higher, the app may function correctly.
These systems are not officially tested.
Compatibility is not guaranteed and usage is at your own risk.
Using the BitBoxApp on Google-free Android devices
Many Android-based systems do not include the Google Play Store.
Users often rely on alternative stores such as Aurora Store.
We do not verify or distribute apps through third-party stores.
Even if they mirror Google Play, we cannot guarantee that the apps are safe or unmodified.
Recommended installation method
-
Download the APK from the official website:
→ https://bitbox.swiss/app/ - Install the APK manually
- (Optional) Test the app using testnet mode
Test compatibility before purchasing
You can install the BitBoxApp as an APK and use it in testnet mode to check whether the app basically works on your device.
However, this only tests the app itself, not the connection to the BitBox02.
The connection to the BitBox02 is established via USB (e.g. using USB OTG).
If your device does not fully support this USB communication, a connection cannot be established.
Even if the app works in testnet mode, this does not mean that your device is compatible with the BitBox02.
Actual compatibility strongly depends on your device’s USB implementation, which can vary depending on the manufacturer, operating system, and configuration.
Android WebView troubleshooting
The BitBoxApp relies on Android System WebView to display certain content.
If it is outdated or missing, parts of the app may not load correctly.
Check here:
Settings → Apps → Android System WebView
Ensure it is updated via the Google Play Store.
If WebView is missing (e.g., some Huawei devices)
- Install Google WebView Canary
- Enable Developer options
- Open WebView implementation
- Select Google WebView Canary
Only apply this workaround if WebView is missing or outdated.
Unsupported or not recommended environments
The following environments are not supported or may lead to unreliable behavior.
Chromebooks
Although some Chromebooks can run Linux operating systems, they typically do not provide the required USB device communication for the BitBox02.
Learn more about Linux on Chromebooks
Raspberry Pi OS
Despite being Linux-based, the system architecture and USB communication do not meet the requirements for reliable BitBox02 operation.
Windows on ARM
While the BitBoxApp may run via emulation, this setup can result in:
- Slow performance
- Unresponsive behavior
- Long loading times
For best results, use a supported x86-64 system (Windows, macOS, Linux).
FAQ
Can I use the BitBoxApp on iOS with any BitBox02?
No.
Only the BitBox02 Nova supports iOS.
Can I use alternative Android app stores?
You can, but it is not recommended.
Only APKs from the official website are considered safe.
Can I test compatibility before buying?
Yes.
Install the APK and test testnet mode.
However, this does not guarantee device compatibility.
Why does the BitBoxApp not load correctly on Android?
Most commonly due to an outdated or missing Android System WebView.
Can I use a Chromebook or Raspberry Pi?
No.
These environments are not supported.
Where can I find the latest versions?
Use:
- Official BitBoxApp download page
- Official BitBoxApp GitHub releases
- Official BitBox02 firmware releases
To ensure authenticity and security, always download software from official sources!