RAK4631 Over the Air Firmware Update (Bluetooth – iPhone, iPad & Android)
RAK4631 Firmware Update (Bluetooth – iPhone, iPad & Android)
You can update a RAK4631 over Bluetooth using a smartphone. The steps are slightly different for Apple and Android, but the overall process is the same.
This method has been successfully used outdoors to update a node mounted about 60 feet up a tower. Bluetooth range will be shorter indoors.
Before You Start
- The update takes several minutes (sometimes up to 10)
- Stay close to the device during the update
- Keep your phone awake (don’t let the screen lock)
- Make sure the Meshtastic app is closed
What You’ll Need
- A smartphone with Bluetooth
- A firmware file downloaded from the Meshtastic website or GitHub
(you’ll be looking for a file that ends with-ota.zip) - A DFU app (depends on your phone type)
iPhone / iPad (iOS)
- Install the nRF Device Firmware Update app from the App Store
- Download the firmware and unzip it
- Open the nRF DFU app
- Select the file that ends with
-ota.zip(for RAK4631) - Connect to your device
- Open Settings in the app:
- Turn on Packet Receipt Notification
- Set Number of Packets to 10 (try 5 if it fails)
- Tap Upload and wait for it to finish
Android
- Install nRF Connect (version 4.24.3)
(This older version is required and is available from Nordic Semiconductor’s GitHub) - Download the firmware and unzip it
- Open nRF Connect
- On the SCANNER tab, find your device and tap CONNECT
- Tap the DFU icon in the top-right corner
- Confirm “Distribution Packet (ZIP)”, then tap OK
- Select the file that ends with
-ota.zip - The update will start automatically — wait for it to finish
After the Update
- The device will restart on its own
- Once it comes back online, the update is complete
If Something Goes Wrong
- Keep calm — this is normal sometimes
- The device will switch to a recovery mode automatically
- Connect it to a computer with a USB cable
- Reinstall the firmware using flash.meshtastic.org
Helpful Tips
- Don’t let your phone lock or switch apps
- Stay close for the best Bluetooth connection
- If the update fails, retry with a lower packet setting (iOS) or use USB