The BitBoxApp allows you to monitor your cryptocurrency balances and transactions without connecting your BitBox02 hardware wallet.
This is possible using the Remember Wallet feature — BitBox’s implementation of a watch-only wallet.
With a watch-only wallet you can:
- check balances
- monitor incoming transactions
- review transaction history
- view or export extended public keys (xpub)
Because private keys always remain securely stored inside the BitBox02, spending funds always requires the hardware wallet to be connected and unlocked. This feature therefore provides view-only access.
Watch-only wallet vs full hardware wallet access
| Feature | Watch-only wallet (Remember Wallet) | BitBox02 connected |
|---|---|---|
| View balances | ✓ | ✓ |
| View transaction history | ✓ | ✓ |
| Receive transactions | ✓ | ✓ |
| Send transactions | ✗ | ✓ |
| Verify receiving address on device | ✗ | ✓ |
| Access private keys | ✗ | ✓ |
The watch-only wallet simply allows you to monitor your funds, while the BitBox02 remains required for spending and verification.
Before you begin
Before enabling the Remember Wallet feature, make sure the following requirements are met.
- The BitBoxApp is installed and updated to the latest version
- Your BitBox02 is set up and firmware is up to date
- If you use a passphrase, have it ready—you’ll need to enter it to access the corresponding wallet.
The BitBox02 must be connected once to enable the Remember Wallet feature for a wallet.
How to enable the Remember Wallet feature
- Open the BitBoxApp on your computer or mobile device.
- Connect your BitBox02.
- Unlock your wallet using your device password.
- If you use a passphrase, enter it as well.
- In the BitBoxApp sidebar, open Settings.
- Select Manage accounts.
- Enable the Remember wallet toggle.
Once enabled, the BitBoxApp can display your balances and transaction history even when the BitBox02 is disconnected.
Using the feature with multiple BitBox02 wallets
The BitBoxApp can remember multiple wallets at the same time.
For example, you might use:
- different BitBox02 devices
- multiple passphrase wallets
- different account setups
When a BitBox02 is connected and unlocked, the BitBoxApp indicates which wallet is currently active.
A green indicator icon in the sidebar shows which wallet is currently unlocked.
Privacy considerations
The BitBoxApp itself does not require a password to open.
If someone has access to your computer or phone, they may be able to see your balances and transaction history.
Only enable the Remember Wallet feature on trusted devices that are properly secured.
This feature is disabled by default to protect your financial privacy.
Advanced: Watch-only wallets in other Bitcoin wallets
Watch-only wallets are a standard concept in Bitcoin.
They allow you to monitor a wallet using its extended public key (xpub) without exposing private keys.
You can also create watch-only wallets in other Bitcoin wallet software:
If you want to understand how public keys make this possible, see:
Frequently asked questions
Is the Remember Wallet feature safe?
Yes.
The BitBoxApp only stores public wallet information.
Your private keys always remain inside the BitBox02, which means:
- nobody can spend your funds
- transactions still require device confirmation
The feature only allows view-only access.
Can I send crypto while the BitBox02 is disconnected?
No.
To send transactions you must:
- Connect your BitBox02
- Unlock the device
- Confirm the transaction on the device screen
This ensures that transactions cannot be created without physical access to your hardware wallet.
How can I see which remembered wallet I unlocked?
If multiple wallets are remembered:
- Connect your BitBox02
- Unlock the wallet
The BitBoxApp will highlight the active wallet in the sidebar with a green icon.