My BitBox02 only shows "Bootloader" on the screen

Seeing "Bootloader" on your BitBox02 screen, especially when you first unbox it, is actually a normal part of the initial setup process. Here’s why and what to do:

Why does my BitBox02 say "Bootloader"?

Your BitBox02 is shipped without pre-installed firmware. This is a deliberate security measure designed to ensure that the very latest and most secure official firmware is installed directly by you during the setup. The "Bootloader" mode is the state your device is in before this firmware is loaded.

The BitBox02 combines a secure chip with fully open-source firmware. This dual-chip architecture enhances physical security while maintaining transparency, as anyone can audit the firmware code. You can learn more about this security approach in our blog post: Best of both worlds: using a secure chip with open source firmware 

During the setup, the BitBoxApp is designed to detect your BitBox02 in bootloader mode and will then guide you through installing the current official firmware.

What to do if your BitBox02 stays in "Bootloader" mode

1. Normal Setup Flow & Firmware Installation:
   1. When you connect your new BitBox02 to your computer and open the BitBoxApp, it should automatically recognize the device and prompt you to install the firmware. Simply follow the on-screen instructions in the app.
   2. Advanced: Verifying Firmware: For an additional layer of security, you can independently verify that the firmware you are installing is genuine and has not been tampered with. This is an optional step for advanced users. Learn how in our guide: How to independently verify the BitBox02 firmware 
2. BitBoxApp Doesn't Recognize the Device:
   1. If the BitBoxApp doesn't see your BitBox02 at all (and therefore doesn't ask you to install firmware), there might be a USB connection issue. Please refer to our dedicated troubleshooting guide for connection problems: My BitBox02 is not recognized (USB connection issues) 
3. Issues During Firmware Installation:
   1. If you encounter an error or the process gets stuck while the firmware is being installed, please try the following steps:
      1. Unplug the BitBox02 from your computer.
      2. Completely close the BitBoxApp. Ensure it's not just minimized but fully quit.
      3. Re-open the BitBoxApp.
      4. Plug your BitBox02 back into the computer.
      5. The BitBoxApp should now prompt you to try the firmware installation again. Follow the instructions.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully install the firmware and proceed with setting up your BitBox02. If the issue persists after trying these solutions, please contact our support team for further assistance.