How to sync my Coinbase Wallet mobile app and browser extension?

Understanding Coinbase Wallet Synchronization

Coinbase Wallet allows users to manage digital assets across multiple platforms, including mobile applications and browser extensions. Syncing these two interfaces ensures consistent access to tokens, decentralized applications (dApps), and transaction history. The process relies on cryptographic key alignment rather than centralized account linking.

Steps to Connect Mobile App with Browser Extension

1. Install the Coinbase Wallet browser extension from the official website compatible with Chrome, Brave, or other supported browsers.
2. Open the Coinbase Wallet mobile app and navigate to the settings menu located in the top-right corner of the interface.
3. Select 'Connect a Wallet' or 'Link to Browser' depending on your app version.
4. Use the in-app QR code scanner within the browser extension to scan the QR code displayed on the mobile device.
5. Confirm the connection request on both devices to establish an encrypted bridge between them.

Data Security During Syncing Process

1. The synchronization does not transmit private keys over the internet; instead, it uses secure peer-to-peer protocols for session establishment.
2. All signing operations remain on the mobile device, ensuring that sensitive credentials never leave the user’s control.
3. Each transaction initiated through the browser must be manually approved via the mobile application for added security.
4. Users should verify the authenticity of the QR code before scanning to prevent man-in-the-middle attacks.
5. It is recommended to disable remote desktop tools or screen sharing when performing wallet connections.

Maintaining Continuous Access Across Devices

1. Ensure both the mobile app and browser extension are updated to the latest available versions to avoid compatibility issues.
2. If disconnected, repeat the QR code pairing process—there is no automatic reconnection after prolonged idle periods.
3. Bookmark frequently used dApps within the browser extension for faster access once linked.
4. Monitor active sessions under the 'Connected Sites' section and disconnect unused or suspicious websites.
5. Never share recovery phrases or approve transactions prompted by unfamiliar dApp connections.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use the same wallet address on both the mobile app and browser extension?Yes, once synced, both interfaces will display the same public wallet address and balance since they derive from the same seed phrase.

What happens if I lose my phone after syncing?As long as you have your 12-word recovery phrase stored securely, you can restore access by reinstalling the app on a new device and reconnecting the browser extension.

Is it safe to interact with DeFi platforms using the connected browser extension?Security depends on user behavior. While the setup itself is encrypted, interacting with untrusted decentralized finance protocols may expose funds to smart contract risks.

Why doesn’t my balance appear immediately after syncing?Delays can occur due to network congestion or caching. Refresh the browser extension page or toggle the network setting to prompt a balance update.