BitBox02 Latest Upgrade: Launch of BitBox02 Nova and Security Protocol Innovations

Bitcoin self-custody has emerged as a key focus for users in recent years. In response, BitBox02 has built a reputation for its engineering, open-source firmware, and EAL6+ certified security standards. In 2025, BitBox unveils a major upgrade—the BitBox02 Nova—offering a more flexible and modern user experience while maintaining robust asset security.

BitBox02 Launches: Introducing Nova

Source: https://bitbox.swiss/bitbox02/nova/

In June 2025, Shift Crypto officially releases BitBox02 Nova, a major evolution from the original BitBox02. Nova’s main feature is its native support for iOS devices—a long-standing request from many users.

Nova’s Core Innovation: Whisper Bluetooth Architecture

To enable seamless connectivity with iPhone and iPad, Nova introduces Whisper, a new Bluetooth protocol. Unlike traditional Bluetooth, Whisper is strictly separated from the main wallet firmware—physically and logically. The Bluetooth module runs on its own microcontroller, and all data is encrypted by the main chip before transmission. Incoming data must also be encrypted and verified. This design streamlines connections and minimizes attack surfaces. Users can disable Bluetooth at any time for added flexibility.

Native iOS Support: No More Compatibility Compromises

Previously, BitBox02 users needed USB-C adapters or software workarounds to use iPhones. Nova eliminates these barriers, providing native iOS compatibility. This upgrade offers significant benefits for dedicated Apple device users.

Security Features: EAL6+ Certified Secure Chip & Open-Source Firmware

While Nova innovates on connectivity, it upholds rigorous security standards. Nova utilizes an EAL6+ certified secure element—one of the highest levels in hardware security—offering robust protection against physical attacks. BitBox maintains a 100% open-source approach. The firmware, BitBoxApp, and components are fully auditable. Users can verify the code to ensure there are no backdoors or hidden vulnerabilities. BitBox02’s architecture also includes a dual-chip design (general MCU plus secure element), encrypted USB channels, device authenticity checks, bootloader downgrade protection, and an anti-klepto signing protocol to prevent private key exposure during signing.

BitBox02 and Pocket Bitcoin: Deep Integration

Beyond hardware, BitBox02 is expanding its service ecosystem. In partnership with Pocket Bitcoin—a Swiss Bitcoin brokerage—users can buy and sell Bitcoin directly in BitBoxApp. When selling Bitcoin, Nova (or BitBox02) identifies Pocket Bitcoin as the transaction initiator and displays the user’s IBAN to confirm the destination account. Both platforms also use the SLIP-24 (Payment Request) protocol to verify that the receiving Bitcoin address is issued by Pocket, preventing man-in-the-middle attacks. This integration boosts transaction security and user confidence while lowering entry barriers.

Community and Industry Reception

The community and media have given strong attention to BitBox02 Nova. Industry professionals view this hardware wallet as a major step forward, combining high security standards with advanced, convenient connectivity.

Why Choose BitBox02 Nova? Intended Audience

• iOS Users: Ideal for those who use iPhone or iPad as their main device—Nova offers native Bluetooth support.
• Security-Focused Bitcoin Holders: Nova provides top-tier security, open-source code, and anti-klepto protocol.
• Users Seeking Seamless Bitcoin Trading: BitBoxApp’s integration with Pocket lets users trade while maintaining private key control.
• Technical Users and Advanced Users: Audit firmware code, verify device authenticity, and leverage advanced security features.

Summary & Outlook

BitBox02 Nova is a major milestone for BitBox in the hardware wallet arena. It delivers native iOS support and isolated Bluetooth connectivity. With expanded integration with Pocket Bitcoin, users benefit from safer Bitcoin management and trading. BitBox plans to introduce additional features based on the Nova architecture. These include firmware upgrades, new protocols, and broader asset support.

If you want a secure, modern, and versatile Bitcoin hardware wallet, BitBox02 Nova is a strong option for users seeking security and versatility.