Quick summary
Ledger Live is the official companion app for Ledger hardware wallets. On mobile, Ledger Live connects to your Ledger device via Bluetooth (for supported devices) or works independently for portfolio viewing. Use Ledger Live to manage accounts, send and receive assets, stake supported tokens, and update device firmware.
Before you begin — prerequisites
- A compatible Ledger device (e.g., Ledger Nano X for Bluetooth; Nano S Plus for USB/on-the-go with OTG adapter).
- Latest Ledger Live app from the App Store or Google Play.
- Recovery phrase stored safely offline (never enter it into your phone).
- Bluetooth enabled (if using Nano X) and phone OS up-to-date.
Step-by-step: Install & pair Ledger Live on mobile
1. Download the app
Install Ledger Live from the official store. Avoid third-party links.
2. Launch & create profile
Open the app, create a new profile (name + optional passcode). The profile stores settings and preferences locally on your device.
3. Choose connection method
Select Bluetooth if you have Ledger Nano X; otherwise choose USB or manual account import for viewing only. For Bluetooth pairing, enable Bluetooth on both devices and follow on-screen prompts.
4. Add an account
Follow the account creation flow to add Bitcoin, Ethereum, or other supported assets. Ledger Live reads public addresses from your Ledger device — confirm on-device when asked.
Pro tip: For the first setup, do a test transaction with a small amount to confirm sending and receiving work as expected.
Using Ledger Live: core features
- Portfolio: View balances across accounts and track performance trends.
- Send & Receive: Create transactions, verify details on your Ledger device, and broadcast securely.
- Swap/Buy: Use integrated partners to swap or buy crypto from within the app (availability varies by region).
- Staking: Stake supported assets directly via Ledger Live to earn rewards while keeping keys secure.
- Manager: Install or remove apps on your Ledger device and update firmware.
How to send crypto (mobile flow)
- Open Ledger Live and tap Send.
- Choose the account and enter recipient address + amount.
- Review network fees and advanced options (nonce/gas if needed).
- Tap Continue — Ledger Live prepares the transaction and prompts your Ledger device to confirm.
- On your Ledger device, verify recipient address, amount, and fee. Approve to sign the transaction.
- Back in Ledger Live, the signed transaction is broadcast to the network and you’ll see the pending transaction in the app.
Always verify the address on your device screen — this protects against address substitution attacks.
Receiving crypto to Ledger Live
To receive funds, open Receive, select an account, and display the receive address on your Ledger device. Confirm the address matches the one shown in Ledger Live before sharing it with the sender.
Managing apps & firmware
Use the Manager tab in Ledger Live to install coin-specific apps on your device. Keep firmware up-to-date to stay protected — Ledger will notify you in the app when updates are available. Always follow on-screen guidance and verify update fingerprints on the device.
Security best practices for mobile Ledger Live
- Never input your recovery phrase into Ledger Live or any app. The recovery phrase is only for device restore on a trusted hardware wallet.
- Enable a strong phone lock (PIN/biometrics) and use app-level passcode for Ledger Live if available.
- Keep Ledger Live updated from official app stores to receive security fixes and new features.
- Verify QR codes and addresses visually on your Ledger device — not just the phone screen.
- Consider a separate device (air-gapped) for high-value operations and use the mobile app for monitoring and low-risk operations.
Troubleshooting common issues
- Bluetooth pairing fails: Toggle Bluetooth, restart both devices, and forget previously paired entries in the phone Bluetooth settings.
- App can't find device: Ensure Ledger Live's Bluetooth permissions are granted and that the Ledger device is unlocked and showing the Ledger Live or Manager app icon.
- Unable to install apps: Free up space by removing unused apps from the device via the Manager tab — this does not delete accounts.
- Transactions stuck: Check network explorers for transaction status. For low-fee transactions, you may need a replace-by-fee (RBF) or cancellation strategy depending on the chain.
Accessibility & UX tips
Ledger Live on mobile includes scalable text and high-contrast modes in the system settings. Use the light theme for clean presentations and the modern blue gradient for trust-focused branding. The vibrant purple works well for marketing materials and visual contrast in presentations.
Integrations and advanced workflows
Ledger Live supports integrations with partners for swapping and buying crypto, and can connect to DeFi through integrations like WalletConnect for specific flows. For advanced users, consider using the mobile app in tandem with desktop Ledger Live for complex operations like exporting accounts, multisig setups, or air-gapped signing with companion tools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use Ledger Live mobile without a Ledger device?
A: Yes — Ledger Live mobile can be used in a ‘view-only’ mode by importing public addresses or connecting accounts for portfolio tracking. However, sending funds or signing transactions requires a Ledger hardware wallet.
Q2: Is Bluetooth secure for Ledger Live?
A: Ledger uses encrypted Bluetooth communications and requires on-device confirmation for sensitive actions. While Bluetooth adds convenience, treat it with the same caution as any wireless link — keep firmware updated and avoid pairing in untrusted environments.
Q3: What happens if I lose my phone?
A: Losing your phone does not expose your crypto if your Ledger device and recovery phrase remain secure. Reinstall Ledger Live on a new phone and re-pair with your Ledger device. Always ensure phone lock is enabled and Ledger Live passcode set.
Q4: Can I stake tokens via Ledger Live mobile?
A: Yes — Ledger Live supports staking for selected assets directly in the mobile app. Check supported coins and regional availability in the app's staking section.
Q5: How do I update firmware using mobile Ledger Live?
A: When an update is available, Ledger Live will prompt you. Follow the on-screen steps: connect/pair the device, start the update, and confirm on the device. Do not disconnect the device during the firmware update.
Closing notes
Ledger Live on mobile combines the portability of a phone with the security of a Ledger hardware wallet. Use the app for everyday monitoring and low-risk tasks, while reserving high-value transactions and device-sensitive operations for carefully controlled environments. Regular backups, firmware updates, and cautious verification are the pillars of long-term crypto safety.