Posted by Baofeng on 7th Sep 2025
How to Program Your Baofeng Radio with Bluetooth: The Official OLA App Guide
Tired of wrestling with programming cables and drivers? The latest generation of Baofeng radios offers a powerful new capability: wireless programming directly from your smartphone.
This is made possible in two ways: with specific models that have Bluetooth built-in, or by using the Baofeng Bluetooth Programming Adapter with a wide range of other popular radios.
This guide will walk you through the simple process of using the official Baofeng International App, "OLA Radio," to connect to your walkie-talkie. Manage channels, program frequencies, and adjust settings with incredible ease—no cables required.
This method is perfect for making quick changes in the field, managing multiple radios with the same configuration, or simply enjoying a cleaner, cable-free setup. Let's get started!
Is Your Baofeng Radio Compatible?
1. Radios with Built-in Bluetooth (Direct Connection)
This model can connect directly to your smartphone without any additional hardware.
UV-5R Mini
2. Radios Requiring a Bluetooth Adapter
IMPORTANT: The following models require the official Baofeng Bluetooth Programming Adapter (sold separately) to enable a wireless connection with the OLA app. The adapter plugs into the radio's accessory port.
UV-5RH
UV-55RX
DM-32UV
UV-5R HAM
RD-55 PRO
T20D
V12D
AT-2
1901 D
BF-888S
UV-55R
H-888S
(Note: This list is always expanding. Check the app for the latest compatible models.)
What You'll Need to Get Started
- A compatible Baofeng radio (from one of the lists above).
- The Baofeng Bluetooth Programming Adapter (if your model is in the second list).
- An Android or Apple IOS smartphone.
- Download the Official Baofeng OLA App
First, install the OLA Radio application on your smartphone. You can scan the appropriate QR code below or search for it manually in your app store.
Download the Official Baofeng OLA App
For iPhone/iOS: Scan the QR code on the left or search for "OLA Radio" on the Apple App Store.
For Android: Scan the QR code on the right or search for "OLA Radio" on the Google Play Store.
Step-by-Step: Programming Your Radio Wirelessly
Step 1: Prepare Your Radio for Connection
The preparation step depends on whether your radio has built-in Bluetooth or uses the adapter. Follow the instructions that match your model.
For Radios with Built-in Bluetooth (e.g., UV-5R Mini)
You must manually enable the wireless programming mode through the radio's menu.
- Turn on your Baofeng walkie-talkie.
- Press the MENU button to enter the main menu.
- Navigate through the options until you find "Wireless Cps". (CPS stands for Customer Programming Software).
- Select this option and change the setting from OFF to ON.
- Press MENU to confirm and then EXIT to return to the main screen.
For Radios Requiring a Bluetooth Adapter
The process is much simpler—there are no menu settings to change. The adapter handles everything automatically.
- With the radio turned off, firmly plug the Baofeng Bluetooth Programming Adapter into the accessory port.
- Turn on your radio.
That's it! The adapter automatically puts the radio into programming mode.
Once you've completed the correct step for your radio, it is ready to be paired with the OLA app.
Step 2: Connect Your Radio in the OLA App
Now, let's establish the connection on your smartphone.
Open the OLA Radio app on your phone.
- On the "Devices" screen, tap the '"Add Device" in the bottom side.
- The app will begin scanning for nearby Bluetooth devices. Your radio or Bluetooth adapter should appear in the list.
- Tap on your device in the list and then tap the "Connect Device" button.
- The app will prompt you to select your specific radio model from a list. Scroll and choose the correct one (e.g., "BF-888S"). Or tap the "Auto Detect" button.
- Tap "Confirm" to finalize the link for identfication sccess.
- You will be returned to the "Devices" list, where your radio will now be shown as connected.
Step 3: Read, Edit, and Write Frequencies
With your radio connected, you can manage its entire configuration.
Read from Radio: Tap on your connected device in the app and select "Read and Write". The app will begin downloading the current settings from your radio. Your radio's screen will display a "Program..." message. When finished, the app will show "Loaded Successfully."
Modify Parameters: You can now access and change all radio settings.
Channel Settings: Tap any channel to edit its Receive (Rx) and Transmit (Tx) frequencies, CTCSS/DCS tones, power level, bandwidth, and name. Use "Bulk Settings" to apply changes to all channels at once.
Freq Mode (VFO) Settings: Adjust the parameters for the A and B bands for when you are not in channel mode.
Function Settings: Configure your radio's core features, including Squelch (SQL), VOX, Roger Beep, Keyboard Lock, Backlight Time, and more.
Write to Radio: After making your changes, tap the "Write to Device" button at the bottom. Confirm the action. The app will upload the new configuration to your radio, which will again display the "Program..." message. You'll see a "Frequency Written Successfully" confirmation when done.
Pro-Tip: Save and Share Programming Plans
One of the most powerful features of the OLA app is the ability to save your entire radio setup as a "plan."
After configuring your channels and settings, tap "Save Plan". Give the plan a descriptive name (e.g., "Camping Trip," "Event Staff," "GMRS Setup").
This is incredibly useful for:
- Backing up your preferred settings.
- Quickly programming multiple radios with the exact same configuration.
- Sharing your plan with friends or team members so you can all operate on the same frequencies.
You've now successfully programmed your Baofeng radio without a single cable. Enjoy the freedom and convenience of wireless control
The Freedom of Cable-Free Programming with Official Baofeng Bluetooth adapter
Baofeng UV-5RH (The Powerful All-Rounder)
Selling Points:
✅ High Power Output (10W): Its key feature. The 10 watts of power provides significantly longer range and better signal penetration through buildings and terrain compared to lower-power radios.
✅ Dual-Band Versatility (VHF/UHF): It can transmit and receive on both VHF and UHF bands, making it highly flexible. This is essential for amateur radio operators who use repeaters on both bands.
✅ Excellent Battery Life: The large 2500mAh battery, combined with tri-power settings (High/Medium/Low), allows the user to conserve power when full output isn't needed, extending operational time significantly.
✅ Full-Featured Operation: Unlike the BF-888s, it has a screen and keypad for direct frequency entry (VFO mode), allowing for on-the-fly programming and access to its 128 memory channels.
✅ Packed with Extras: Includes a built-in FM broadcast radio receiver for entertainment and a flashlight for utility.
🎯 Use Cases:
Amateur Radio (Ham): This is the quintessential entry-level radio for licensed ham operators. Its features, power, and price make it perfect for hitting local repeaters and simplex communication.
Emergency Preparedness (Prepping): A favorite in the prepper community due to its power, versatility, ability to monitor emergency frequencies, and independence from cellular networks.
Outdoor Adventures: Excellent for serious hikers, 4x4 off-roading groups, and airsoft/paintball teams who need reliable, long-range communication in remote areas.
Scanning Hobbyists: Can be used to listen to a wide range of unencrypted analog frequencies, such as weather channels, public events, and marine bands (for listening only).
Baofeng DM-32 (The Digital Gateway)
Selling Points:
✅ Dual Mode (Digital + Analog): It can communicate with both new digital DMR radios and older analog radios (like the UV-5RH and BF-888s). This provides a seamless migration path for teams upgrading their equipment.
✅ DMR Tier II / Dual Time Slot: This professional-grade feature allows for two separate, simultaneous conversations on a single frequency. It essentially doubles your channel capacity, which is a huge benefit for busy business operations or active ham radio repeaters.
✅ Large Channel and Contact Capacity: With 1024 channels and a large contact list, it can be programmed for highly complex operational environments with many different user groups.
✅ Professional Compatibility: It is compatible with MOTOTRBO Tier I & II systems and uses the popular Kenwood K1 accessory plug, making it easy to integrate with existing professional gear.
🎯 Use Cases:
Businesses Needing Clarity and Efficiency: Construction sites, logistics hubs, large hotels, and security teams where clear, private, and efficient communication is critical. The dual time slot feature is a major asset here.
Amateur Radio Operators (Digital Voice): The perfect radio for hams wanting to get onto the worldwide DMR networks via local repeaters or personal hotspots.
Advanced Hobbyists: For users who have mastered analog and want to explore the advanced features and superior performance of digital radio.
Mixed Radio Environments: An ideal "command" radio for a leader who needs to communicate with both an older analog-equipped team and a new digital-equipped team simultaneously.
Baofeng BF-888s (The Simple Workhorse)
Selling Points:
✅ Extreme Affordability: This is its number one selling point. It is incredibly inexpensive, making it feasible to buy in bulk for teams or for casual use where loss or damage is a risk.
✅ Utter Simplicity: With no screen and just a channel knob and a volume/power knob, it's virtually impossible to operate incorrectly. Ideal for non-technical users, volunteers, or staff with minimal training.
✅ Compact and Lightweight: Very easy to carry on a belt or in a pocket without being cumbersome.
✅ PC Programmable: While simple to use, a business or group can pre-program all 16 channels with specific frequencies and settings (e.g., for a UK Simple Business Lite license or PMR446), then hand them out to users who cannot change the settings.
✅ Durable for the Price: It has a reputation for being a surprisingly tough little radio that can handle drops and basic wear and tear.
🎯 Use Cases:
Small Businesses: Ideal for coordinating staff in small areas like retail stores, restaurants, warehouses, or workshops.
Event Management: Perfect for stewards, parking attendants, and volunteers at local fairs, concerts, or sporting events.
Family & Recreational Use: Great for keeping in touch on camping trips, in theme parks, on cruises, or during group hikes where mobile signal is poor.
Starter Radio: A low-risk entry point for anyone curious about radios without wanting to invest in complex or expensive equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
This is the most common issue. Try these steps in order:
Check the Radio: Make sure your radio is turned on and the "Wireless Cps" setting in the menu is set to ON.
Check the Adapter: If you're using the Bluetooth adapter, ensure it is plugged firmly into the radio's accessory port. You should see a light on the adapter.
Check Your Phone: Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your smartphone.
Restart Everything: Turn the radio off and on again. Close and reopen the OLA app.
Stay Close: Ensure your phone is within a few feet of the radio when you are trying to connect.
For the best reliability and guaranteed compatibility, you must use the official Baofeng Bluetooth Programming Adapter (Exclude UV-5R Mini). Generic Bluetooth audio adapters or dongles will not work, as they do not have the specific chipset and firmware required to communicate programming data with the radio.
Absolutely, and it's highly recommended! The best practice is to connect your radio for the first time, perform a "Read from Radio" operation, and then immediately use the "Save Plan" feature to back up the original factory configuration. Give it a name like "My UV-5RH Factory Backup" so you can always restore it later.
Yes, the OLA Radio app itself is free to download and use from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. The only potential cost is if your radio model requires the separate purchase of the Baofeng Bluetooth Programming Adapter.
Yes. Using the OLA app for wireless programming does not change or disable the radio's ability to be programmed with a traditional cable and software like CHIRP. You can use whichever method is most convenient for you at any given time.
When you edit a channel in the app, you are typically assigning a frequency that you have already saved in your radio's memory or VFO. To add a brand new frequency, you would generally enter it in the "Freq Mode (VFO) Settings" first, and then assign that VFO frequency to the desired channel number in the "Channel Settings" menu.