How to use Ledger Nano X with the MetaMask mobile app? (USB/Bluetooth)

Connecting Ledger Nano X to MetaMask Mobile

1. Ensure the Ledger Nano X firmware is updated to version 2.0 or higher using Ledger Live desktop application before attempting mobile pairing.

2. Install the Ethereum app on the Ledger device via Ledger Live, making sure it is open and ready on the device screen during connection.

3. Enable Bluetooth on the Ledger Nano X by navigating to Settings > Connectivity > Bluetooth and toggling it ON.

4. Open the MetaMask mobile app on an Android or iOS device supporting Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and verify location permissions are granted for Bluetooth discovery.

5. Tap “Import Wallet” > “Hardware Wallet” > “Ledger”, then select “Continue with Bluetooth” when prompted.

Bluetooth Pairing Process

1. MetaMask scans for nearby Ledger devices; the Nano X must be unlocked and display the Ethereum app interface.

2. A six-digit pairing code appears both on the Ledger screen and in the MetaMask app — confirm matching values before proceeding.

3. Tap “Pair” in MetaMask; the Ledger device requires physical confirmation by pressing both side buttons simultaneously.

4. Once paired, the Ledger Nano X shows “Connected” and MetaMask displays “Hardware wallet connected successfully.”

5. No USB cable is required at this stage — all signing operations occur over encrypted BLE channels compliant with FIDO U2F standards.

Transaction Signing Workflow

1. Within MetaMask Mobile, select an account associated with the Ledger Nano X and initiate a transaction such as sending ETH or approving a token contract.

2. The app transmits unsigned transaction data wirelessly to the Ledger device, which validates network parameters and recipient address integrity offline.

3. The Nano X displays transaction details including gas fee, destination, and value — users must manually approve each field using button navigation.

4. After confirming on-device, the Ledger signs the payload using its secure element and returns the signature to MetaMask without exposing private keys.

5. MetaMask broadcasts the signed transaction to the Ethereum network only after receiving valid cryptographic proof from the hardware.

USB Connection Alternative

1. Plug the Ledger Nano X into a compatible Android device using a certified USB-C to USB-C cable — iOS does not support USB HID for Ledger in MetaMask Mobile.

2. Grant USB permission when prompted by the Android system; the Ledger must remain unlocked and have Ethereum app open.

3. In MetaMask Mobile, choose “Connect via USB” instead of Bluetooth and follow on-screen instructions to detect the device.

4. Unlike Bluetooth, USB mode disables automatic reconnection — users must repeat detection steps each time the app restarts or the device disconnects.

5. Transaction signing remains identical: all cryptographic operations execute inside the Secure Element, and no private key ever leaves the chip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use MetaMask Mobile with Ledger Nano X on iOS via Bluetooth?Yes, iOS 14.5+ supports BLE HID profiles required for Ledger Nano X, provided the MetaMask app version is 7.0.0 or newer.

Q: Why does MetaMask show “No accounts found” after connecting?This occurs if the Ethereum app is not open on the Ledger, or if the derivation path in MetaMask does not match the one used by Ledger’s Ethereum app (default is m/44'/60'/0'/0).

Q: Is it safe to approve transactions when the Ledger screen shows “Processing…”?Yes — “Processing…” indicates the device is verifying signature parameters internally; no external party can interfere once the transaction is loaded onto the secure chip.

Q: Can I access multiple Ethereum networks like Arbitrum or Optimism with Ledger through MetaMask Mobile?Yes — after connecting, switch networks inside MetaMask Mobile; the Ledger signs accordingly as long as the selected network uses EIP-155 chain ID and supports Ethereum-compatible signatures.