Your extended public key can be used to set up watch-only wallets or connect to financial software. The BitBoxApp allows you to securely view the keys for your different accounts.
If you're not sure what an extended public key is, we recommend reading our introductory guide first: What is an extended public key?
Step-by-step guide
- Open the BitBoxApp on your computer.
- In the left-hand sidebar, click on the account you need the extended public key for (e.g., "TEST").
- In the main view for that account, click the "Account info" button, located in the top-right corner.
- A new screen will pop up showing the "Account information". Here you will see your extended public key displayed in both a QR code format and as plain text that you can copy.
- This screen also shows other important details, such as the derivation path ("Keypath") and the script type, which defines the address format.
Switching between key formats
On the "Account information" screen, you will see your extended public key. The BitBoxApp displays the Native Segwit (zpub) key by default. You can switch to see older formats by clicking the link under "Currently displaying...". This will allow you to view the Segwit (ypub) format if a service requires it.
What about the Taproot extended public key?
For security reasons, the BitBoxApp does not display the Taproot extended public key. This is to protect you from accidental misuse, as raw formats for this newest script type are not yet widely supported by other services. If you are an advanced user and need to view this key, you can connect your BitBox02 to third-party wallet software that supports the "output descriptor" format.
Verifying your extended public key
For an extra layer of security, you can verify the extended public key on your BitBox02. This confirms that the key shown in the app correctly matches the one generated by your device. To do this, connect and unlock your BitBox02 and click the "Verify on device" button. You will then be prompted to confirm the extended public key on your BitBox02's screen.
For a deeper explanation of these formats, see our guide: Understanding Bitcoin extended public key formats
FAQ Section:
Can I see my extended public key without my BitBox02 connected?
Yes, if you have enabled the "Remember wallet" feature in the BitBoxApp settings, you can view your account information, including the extended public key, without the device. However, you will need the BitBox02 to verify it on the device.
Where is the "Account info" button?
After selecting an account from the left sidebar, the "Account info" button appears in the main window, at the top right, next to the "Guide" button.
Why can't I find an extended public key for my Ethereum account?
This concept is primarily used by Bitcoin and similar cryptocurrencies to generate new addresses. Account-based coins like Ethereum use a single, persistent address and do not function in the same way.
The service I use needs an "xpub" but the BitBoxApp shows a "zpub". What do I do?
"zpub" is just the format for a modern Bitcoin account type (Native Segwit). Some older services might need it in a different format. You can use known conversion tools to change the format safely: Convert your extended public key format