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This documentation was last updated on 15 November 2025, and applies to app version 15.11.2025.

Note: The LoRa APRS App application has not yet begun full versioning. This will commence with the stable v1.0.0 release.

LoRa APRS App is a mobile application for amateur radio operators, designed with a strong focus on messaging and network monitoring. Built by hams, for hams, this app prioritizes solid, reliable communication without the bloat. It does not send its own position beacons, acting as a dedicated interface for your LoRa APRS TNC but also works for AFSK VHF APRS.

A key design principle is true off-grid capability. The application does not require an internet connection and does not need access to your device’s location services (GPS) to function. The only requirement is a connection to your TNC, allowing you to operate completely independent of cellular or internet infrastructure.

If you’re looking for a “set and forget” client that runs in the background, auto-connects to your devices, and just works for messaging, this is the app for you.

Download & Installation

The app is currently in active development. You can download the latest version from the official download portal.

• Platform: Android (Beta)

• Platform: iOS (Coming Soon)

• ➡️ Download Latest Version at app.lora-aprs.pl/download

How to Start

Getting your LoRa APRS App running is easy. Follow these steps in order:

1. Installation: First, download and install the app from the link above.
2. Configuration: Connect the app to your LoRa APRS device. The app supports Bluetooth (BLE & Classic) and TCP/IP (WiFi). Your device must support the KISS TNC protocol. Once connected, configure your station’s parameters, such as your callsign and other preferences in the app settings.
3. Explore Features: After setup, explore the app’s features, like the messaging interface, station lists, and map view.

Key Features

• Pure Messaging Focus: No position beacons, no unnecessary features. Just solid, reliable APRS messaging.
• Set & Forget: Runs in the background and automatically reconnects to your TNC.
• Flexible Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth (BLE & Classic) and TCP/IP over Wi-Fi for connecting to your devices.
• KISS TNC Protocol: Designed to work with any device that supports the standard KISS TNC protocol.
• Smart Station Lists: Automatically filters for active, message-capable stations. Old stations are auto-cleaned from the list.
• Rich Station Data: View detailed telemetry graphs, weather data, and raw packet info for any station.
• Network Map: A visual map of all stations you are hearing to understand your local network coverage.

Design Philosophy: A Messaging-First Client

While many APRS apps focus on tracking, this project takes a different approach. The core philosophy is simple: a reliable messaging client that stays out of your way is more valuable than an app that tries to do everything.

• Not a Tracker: This app is not an APRS tracker. It will not send your phone’s location. It is a client terminal for an external TNC.
• Clean & Simple: The goal is to provide a clean, reliable interface for sending and receiving messages and monitoring the network. Operations are clear and easy to understand.
• Smart Integration: The app is designed to work perfectly with SQ2CPA LoRa APRS firmware (flasher.sq2cpa.pl), but it remains compatible with other standard KISS TNC devices.
• Background Reliability: The app is built to run reliably in the background, ensuring you are always connected to the LoRa APRS network and ready to receive messages.
• True Off-Grid Operation: The app requires no internet connection and no device location (GPS) access to function. Its only requirement is a connection to your TNC, ensuring full capability in any off-grid scenario.