How to use Coinbase Wallet on my mobile phone?

Download Coinbase Wallet, create a new wallet, secure your 12-word recovery phrase, and use your public address to send, receive, and swap crypto or connect to dApps securely.

Aug 06, 2025 at 09:57 am

Setting Up Coinbase Wallet on Your Mobile Device

To begin using Coinbase Wallet on your mobile phone, download the official app from the App Store (for iOS) or Google Play Store (for Android). Search for "Coinbase Wallet" and ensure you select the correct application developed by Coinbase, Inc. Install the app and open it once the installation completes. Upon launching, tap on "Create a new wallet" to initiate the setup process. You will be prompted to create a strong password—this password protects access to your wallet on the device. Choose a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols that is unique and not used elsewhere.

The next step involves securing your recovery phrase, a set of 12 words that act as a backup to restore your wallet if you lose access to your phone. The app will display the phrase on the screen. Carefully write it down on paper and store it in a secure, offline location. Never save it digitally or share it with anyone. After writing it down, you will be asked to verify the phrase by selecting the words in the correct order. Once confirmed, your wallet is officially created. At this stage, your public wallet address is generated, which you can use to receive cryptocurrencies.

Understanding the Interface and Core Features

The main screen of the Coinbase Wallet app displays your asset balance, recent transactions, and quick access buttons for sending, receiving, and swapping tokens. The top section shows your total balance in your preferred fiat currency (e.g., USD), with a toggle to view balances in specific cryptocurrencies. Below that, you’ll see a list of supported assets such as ETH, DAI, USDC, and various ERC-20 tokens. Tap any asset to view its transaction history and detailed information.

The "Browser" tab at the bottom allows direct interaction with decentralized applications (dApps). This built-in Web3 browser connects your wallet to blockchain-based platforms such as decentralized exchanges (DEXs), NFT marketplaces, and yield farming protocols. When you visit a dApp, the wallet will prompt you to connect your wallet—this grants the dApp read access to your public address but does not allow it to move funds without explicit approval.

Another key feature is the "Collectibles" tab, where all your NFTs are displayed. If you’ve purchased or received non-fungible tokens, they will appear here with their images and metadata. This section supports NFTs from Ethereum, Polygon, and other compatible blockchains.

Sending Cryptocurrency Using Coinbase Wallet

To send cryptocurrency, tap the "Send" button on the home screen. You’ll be prompted to select the asset you wish to transfer. After selecting the token, enter the recipient’s public wallet address. You can paste it from your clipboard or scan a QR code using the camera icon. Ensure the address is correct—transactions on the blockchain are irreversible.

Next, input the amount you want to send. The app will display the estimated network fee (gas fee) required for the transaction. You can adjust the fee level—low, medium, or high—depending on how quickly you want the transaction confirmed. Higher fees result in faster processing. Review all details carefully, including the recipient address and amount, then tap "Continue". You’ll need to authenticate using your device’s biometric security (fingerprint or face ID) or your wallet password. After authentication, the transaction is broadcast to the network and appears in your transaction history.

Receiving Cryptocurrency and Managing Addresses

To receive funds, tap the "Receive" button. The app will display your public wallet address as both text and a QR code. Share this address with the sender through any communication channel. You can copy the address to your clipboard or allow the sender to scan the QR code directly from your screen.

Each asset has the same wallet address, but you must ensure the sender uses the correct network. For example, sending USDC on the Ethereum network to an address expecting USDC on Solana will result in permanent loss of funds. Always confirm the network with the sender before initiating any transfer. The app displays network information below the QR code to help avoid mistakes.

You can also generate a custom label for incoming transactions. This helps you identify who sent the funds, especially if you manage multiple financial relationships. Labels are stored locally and do not appear on the blockchain.

Swapping Tokens Within the Wallet

Coinbase Wallet allows direct token swaps without leaving the app. Navigate to the "Swap" section from the home screen. Select the token you wish to exchange and the token you want to receive. Enter the amount, and the app will show you available liquidity and the estimated output after fees.

The swap feature aggregates quotes from multiple decentralized exchanges to offer competitive rates. Before confirming, review the exchange rate, service fee, and slippage tolerance. Slippage is the difference between the expected price and the actual execution price, often due to market volatility. You can adjust the slippage setting in the app’s preferences if needed.

Once satisfied, tap "Swap" and authenticate with your biometrics or password. The transaction will be processed on the blockchain, and the new tokens will appear in your wallet once confirmed. Swap history is accessible under the transaction details for each asset.

Connecting to Decentralized Applications (dApps)

To interact with a dApp, go to the "Browser" tab and navigate to the website (e.g., Uniswap, OpenSea, Aave). When the site requests a wallet connection, a prompt will appear in the Coinbase Wallet app. Tap "Connect" to authorize the link. Your public address will be shared, but private keys remain secure on your device.

When executing actions like minting NFTs, providing liquidity, or approving token spending, the app will request your approval. Each transaction requires gas fees paid in the native token of the network (e.g., ETH for Ethereum). Always review the details of the contract interaction before confirming. The wallet displays the function being called and the associated cost.

You can disconnect from any dApp at any time through the app’s connection manager. This revokes the dApp’s ability to interact with your wallet, enhancing security after use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I recover my Coinbase Wallet if I lose my phone?

Yes. As long as you have your 12-word recovery phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new device. Install the Coinbase Wallet app, select "Restore wallet", and enter your recovery phrase exactly as written. Your funds and transaction history will reappear.

Is Coinbase Wallet the same as my Coinbase.com account?

No. Coinbase Wallet is a self-custody wallet where you control your private keys. Coinbase.com is a centralized exchange that holds your assets. They are separate systems, though you can transfer funds between them using wallet addresses.

What should I do if I enter the wrong network when sending funds?

If you send cryptocurrency to the correct address but on the wrong network (e.g., sending ETH to a BSC address), the funds may be lost permanently. Always double-check the network. Some wallets support cross-chain recovery tools, but there is no guarantee.

Can I use Coinbase Wallet without a Coinbase.com account?

Yes. Coinbase Wallet operates independently. You do not need an account with the Coinbase exchange to use the wallet app. It functions as a standalone Web3 wallet for storing, sending, and interacting with blockchain assets.