Overview
Ledger Live Mobile brings the core functionality of Ledger’s desktop app into a pocket-sized experience: portfolio tracking, receiving and sending assets, staking certain coins, and connecting to curated third-party integrations — all while preserving the hardware wallet’s security model. The app is a companion: private keys remain on your Ledger device (Nano X, Nano S Plus, etc.), and Ledger Live Mobile communicates with the device via USB-C or Bluetooth (depending on model). That separation—an intuitive mobile interface with hardware-backed signing—lets you act quickly without sacrificing custody security.
Why use Ledger Live on mobile?
Mobile access is about convenience and speed. With Ledger Live Mobile you can check balances, accept payments, confirm small transactions, monitor staking rewards, and receive notifications about portfolio changes while away from your desktop. For many users, mobile is ideal for routine checks and light operations; for higher-risk actions (firmware updates, major transfers, complex DeFi operations) the desktop remains preferable. Ledger Live Mobile is useful when paired with strong habits: keep device firmware updated, verify everything on your Ledger screen, and use mobile only on trusted networks.
Download & install
Install Ledger Live Mobile from official app stores: the Apple App Store for iOS devices and Google Play for Android. Search for "Ledger Live" and confirm the publisher is the official vendor. Avoid installing from third-party APK sites or links found in untrusted forums. The mobile app is free and installs like any other app — but always check reviews and the developer name to verify authenticity.
Permissions & privacy
The app may request Bluetooth, local network, and USB permissions depending on your device and connection method. Permissions are necessary for communication with your Ledger hardware; grant only those required and avoid giving extra permissions that aren’t needed for normal operation.
Pairing and connecting your Ledger
Ledger Live Mobile supports two main connection types: wired (USB-C) and wireless (Bluetooth). Wired connections are more straightforward and require an OTG adapter on some phones. Bluetooth pairing is only available on compatible Ledger models (e.g., Nano X); it requires pairing the device in Ledger Live Mobile and confirming a pairing code on the hardware device. Always confirm the pairing code on your Ledger device to ensure you’re connecting to your device and not a malicious dongle.
First-time pairing
Open Ledger Live Mobile, select "Connect device," then follow the step-by-step prompts. The app will ask you to open the appropriate app (e.g., Bitcoin, Ethereum) on your Ledger device and to confirm connections. For Bluetooth, grant the app permission to pair and verify the on-device code. If anything looks suspicious—unexpected codes, unfamiliar prompts—abort and restart the process.
Core workflows: receive, send, and manage
Receiving funds
To receive, open Ledger Live Mobile, choose the account (Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.), tap Receive, and let the app display an address. Crucially, always verify that the address shown in the mobile app matches the address displayed on your Ledger device screen before sharing it with a sender. This on-device verification prevents malware or a compromised phone from substituting addresses.
Sending funds
When sending, create a transaction in the app, enter the destination address and amount, then review fees. The app prepares the unsigned transaction and sends it to the Ledger device for signing. You must confirm the entire transaction on the device screen. The signed transaction is then broadcast by the mobile app. This flow ensures private keys never leave the hardware device and that physical confirmation is required for every transfer.
Managing accounts
Ledger Live Mobile supports adding multiple accounts, renaming them for convenience, and viewing transaction history. You can hide or remove accounts from the app's view without affecting the underlying funds (accounts remain recoverable from your recovery phrase). For cross-device use, accounts you add on mobile will also appear in Ledger Live Desktop when the same seed/device is connected.
Staking & rewards on mobile
Ledger Live Mobile supports native staking for selected proof-of-stake networks. Native staking lets you delegate or stake directly in the app while the Ledger device handles signature approvals. Staking usually involves chain-specific rules: unbonding periods, slashing risks, and validator fees. Before staking, read the chain’s details and consider starting with a small amount to learn the timeline. Rewards are visible in the app, and claiming or undelegating requires on-device confirmations.
Curated integrations & DeFi access
Ledger Live Mobile exposes a Discover section that lists vetted third-party services: simple swaps, liquidity providers, and other DeFi integrations. These integrations are convenient, but they connect you to external smart contracts; ledger helps by ensuring signatures occur on-device, but application-level risks remain. When using integrations, read service terms, check audits, and begin with small test amounts. For advanced dApp interactions, many users prefer linking a hardware-backed Web3 wallet on desktop where interfaces are richer.
Security best practices for mobile
Mobile security is an extension of hardware security. Follow these recommendations every time you use Ledger Live Mobile:
- Download Ledger Live only from official app stores and keep it updated.
- Keep your Ledger device firmware current; apply updates via trusted Wi-Fi or desktop when possible.
- Always verify addresses and transaction details on your Ledger device screen before approving.
- Never type or store your 24-word recovery phrase on your phone. No legitimate process requires entering your seed into mobile apps.
- Use device-level protections: strong phone passcode, biometric unlock, and encrypted backups where appropriate.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi for large transfers; prefer private networks or mobile data for critical operations.
If your recovery phrase is exposed: Immediately create a new seed on a new device and transfer funds. Never reuse an exposed seed.
Troubleshooting common mobile issues
Bluetooth pairing problems
If pairing fails, toggle Bluetooth off/on on your phone, restart Ledger Live Mobile, and retry. Make sure no other nearby device is already paired to the Ledger. If issues persist, restart the Ledger device and re-attempt pairing while watching the on-device prompts.
Device not recognized over USB
Use a verified OTG cable or adapter and ensure USB permissions are granted. On Android, you may need to allow the app to access USB devices. Try a different cable and restart both phone and Ledger device if necessary.
Unexpected transaction prompts
If Ledger Live Mobile prompts you to sign an unexpected transaction, do not confirm it on the device. Investigate the source, revoke approvals if possible, and consider moving funds to a new wallet if you suspect compromise.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use Ledger Live Mobile without a Ledger device?
Ledger Live Mobile provides limited read-only features when no device is connected, but sending or signing transactions requires the hardware wallet to be connected and unlocked.
Is Bluetooth safe?
Bluetooth is convenient and generally safe when using Ledger Live because the device requires confirmation for pairing and every signature. However, treat Bluetooth like any wireless channel: confirm pairing codes, keep firmware updated, and avoid pairing in untrusted environments.
Can I stake from the mobile app?
Yes, Ledger Live Mobile supports staking for selected assets. The Ledger device will ask you to review and approve staking transactions on-device.
Conclusion & recommended workflow
Ledger Live Mobile is a powerful companion that enables secure, mobile-first crypto management without surrendering custody. For everyday tasks—balance checks, small transfers, staking monitoring, and quick swaps—mobile is fast and reliable. For firmware updates, major asset migrations, or complex DeFi interactions, pair mobile use with desktop or prefer the desktop app for richer tooling. Always verify on-device, protect your recovery phrase offline, and use trusted integrations. Following these habits will let you enjoy the convenience of mobile while maintaining the highest standards of security.