How to Connect Your Ledger to a Mobile Phone? (iOS & Android)

Setting Up Your Ledger with a Mobile Device

1. Ensure your mobile phone is compatible with the Ledger Live app. For iOS devices, you need at least an iPhone 7 running iOS 15 or higher. Android users must have a device supporting NFC and running Android 8.0 or later. Check the official Ledger website for an updated list of supported models to avoid connectivity issues.

2. Download the Ledger Live application from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Avoid third-party sources to prevent malware installation. The app acts as the interface between your hardware wallet and blockchain networks, enabling secure management of cryptocurrencies.

3. Power on your Ledger device and follow the on-screen instructions to set it up if it’s new. Record the 24-word recovery phrase on paper—never digitally—and confirm it within the device. This step is critical for asset recovery in case the device is lost or damaged.

Connecting via Bluetooth or USB

1. On Android, enable both Bluetooth and NFC in your phone settings. Open Ledger Live and select 'Connect your device.' Choose 'Allow' when prompted for permissions. The app will search for nearby Ledger devices using Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE).

2. For iOS, connection relies on QR codes due to Apple’s restrictions on direct Bluetooth communication with external hardware wallets. In Ledger Live, tap 'Connect Device,' then use your iPhone’s camera to scan the QR code displayed on your Ledger screen after navigating to the Bluetooth app.

3. Once paired, verify the connection by checking the Bluetooth icon on your Ledger. A solid blue light indicates successful pairing. If blinking, reinitiate the process ensuring the Ledger Live app has necessary location and Bluetooth access rights.

4. Always confirm the 6-digit pairing code shown on both your phone and Ledger matches before proceeding. Discrepancies may indicate a man-in-the-middle attack. Never skip this verification step regardless of how many times you've connected before.

Managing Cryptocurrencies on Mobile

1. After establishing a secure link, install cryptocurrency apps directly onto your Ledger through Ledger Live. Navigate to the 'Manager' section, connect your device, and browse available coins like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Solana. Each requires individual installation.

2. Access your assets by selecting the desired currency in the app. Send transactions by entering recipient addresses, amounts, and fees. Confirm every transaction on your Ledger’s physical buttons to enforce two-factor authentication.

3. Never enter your recovery phrase into any mobile application, even if prompted by a seemingly legitimate interface. Phishing attempts often mimic official designs. The only safe place to input the seed phrase is on the Ledger device itself during initial setup or recovery.

4. Regularly update both Ledger Live and firmware. Updates patch security vulnerabilities and add support for new tokens. Enable automatic updates where possible but always review release notes for changes affecting functionality.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use multiple Ledger devices with one Ledger Live account?

Yes, you can switch between different Ledger devices within the same Ledger Live profile. Each device operates independently with its own private keys and recovery phrases. When switching, ensure you physically verify account balances on the device being used.

Why does my Android phone fail to detect the Ledger?

This issue commonly arises from disabled location services, which Android requires for BLE scanning. Turn on GPS and grant location permission to Ledger Live. Restarting both the phone and Ledger device often resolves detection failures.

Is it safe to approve transactions on my phone instead of the Ledger?

No, transaction approval must occur on the Ledger’s screen using its physical buttons. Approving on the phone bypasses hardware-level protection and exposes funds to potential theft. The mobile app should only initiate actions; final validation happens on-device.