How To Link Your ZOLEO Device to the ZOLEO App

This article walks you through how to link your ZOLEO device to the ZOLEO App, depending on your app version. Once connected, the device enables global messaging using satellite, cellular, or Wi-Fi — so you can stay in touch even when you’re off the grid.

Why Linking Matters:

When your ZOLEO device is linked to the ZOLEO App:

• The dedicated ZOLEO email address and ZOLEO SMS number will become available for use - this is known as Follow-Me SMS and Email Messaging.
• Messages sent to the ZOLEO email address and SMS number will always be delivered to the ZOLEO App — even if your ZOLEO device is powered off.

• App features like SOS and Weather become available after successful linking.

Note: Bluetooth connectivity for your ZOLEO device is exclusively managed through the ZOLEO App.

If you plan on sharing your device, go to Settings > Disconnect From ZOLEO Device in the ZOLEO app before handing off your ZOLEO. This ensures the next user can follow the correct steps to link the device.

Before Linking Your Device:

1. To connect the ZOLEO device to your ZOLEO App, Bluetooth will need to be enabled (turned on) on your phone.
2. You need to ensure that Bluetooth permissions have been enabled for the ZOLEO App:
   • • iOS: Go to Settings, select ZOLEO, and ensure Bluetooth is enabled.
     • Android: Go to Settings, select Apps, select ZOLEO, select Permissions, and ensure Nearby devices is "Allowed".
3. Check your app version:
   1. 1. Open the ZOLEO App.
      2. Tap Settings. 
      3. Select About the App and see your current app version.
      4. Follow the steps below based on the version you are using. 

Note: We recommend always updating your ZOLEO App to its latest version to enjoy all our features and improvements.

Version 6.7 or Higher: 

1. Open the ZOLEO App and complete any onboarding or enrollment screens.
2. On the Chats screen, tap the Connect tab (in the center of the bottom menu) or expand the Connection Status Bar at the bottom of the screen.
   
3. Grant Permission and Enable Bluetooth.
   • • If prompted with a “Bluetooth permission required” message, go into your Phone Settings > ZOLEO App > Toggle on Bluetooth.
     • If Bluetooth is turned off, you’ll see a message that says “Your Bluetooth is off.”
     • Follow the instructions to turn Bluetooth on from your device’s Settings or Control Center.
          
4. Power On Your ZOLEO Device
   • • You’ll be asked to “Power on your ZOLEO device to connect.”
     • Once powered on, the LED on your device should blink green.
     • Tap Scan for nearby device(s).
       
5. Select Your Device From the List
   • • Your ZOLEO’s IMEI number will appear under Available devices.
     • This number can be found on the back of your device.
     • Tap the green Connect button next to your device’s IMEI.
       
6. Wait for the Connection to Complete
   • • The app will send a Follow-Me request to the server.
     • If using satellite, ensure your ZOLEO is face up and has a clear view of the sky for best results.
     • A loading spinner will indicate progress.
       
7. Success Message
   • • You’ll see a confirmation message: “Follow-Me SMS & Email successfully enabled.”
     • The app navigation will now update to show Weather and SOS tabs in addition to Chats and Settings.
       

Version 6.6 or Lower:

1. Open the ZOLEO app on your smartphone or tablet.
2. Power on your ZOLEO device. The power LED will blink green once the device is on.
3. Ensure you have network connectivity to a Wi-Fi or cellular network.
   • • If you don't have access to Wi-Fi or cellular networks, you can also link your ZOLEO device to the ZOLEO app over satellite. Ensure you have a line of sight to the sky. For best success, take the device to a clear outdoor area.
4. In the bottom menu, tap on the ZOLEO icon (in the center).
5. Tap on your ZOLEO IMEI from the list of available devices. This number can be found on the back of your device, and it begins at 30.
6. The ZOLEO app will now begin to connect to your device and send a message to the ZOLEO server to enable Follow-Me SMS & Email Messaging. This is so that messages sent to your ZOLEO email address and ZOLEO SMS number are always delivered to your app. 
   • • If performing this process over satellite, wait a couple of minutes for the process to complete.
7. Once successfully connected and Follow-Me SMS & Email messaging has been enabled, a confirmation prompt will appear, and you will now see the other app menu icons appear, such as SOS and Weather.