Support
Get help with BTScanner, or find answers to common questions below.
Getting Started
Why can't BTScanner find any devices?
Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your Mac via System Settings → Bluetooth. You'll also need to grant BTScanner Bluetooth permission the first time — if you accidentally denied it, go to System Settings → Privacy & Security → Bluetooth, find BTScanner, and enable it.
The app beachballs or shows "Bluetooth Unavailable" on launch.
This is usually a permissions issue on macOS. Go to System Settings → Privacy & Security → Bluetooth, remove BTScanner from the list, then relaunch — macOS will prompt you to grant permission again. If you installed a new build, you may need to re-approve it each time.
Scanning
Why don't some devices show a name, manufacturer, or type?
This information comes from what each device chooses to broadcast. Many devices advertise only a signal with no additional details — BTScanner displays what's available and notes when data isn't broadcast.
Does BTScanner connect to or pair with devices?
No. BTScanner only listens to public Bluetooth advertisement broadcasts. It never connects, pairs, or exchanges data with any device it detects.
Pinned Devices
How do I pin a device?
Right-click any device in the list and choose "Pin Device", or select a device and use the ••• menu in the detail panel. Pinned devices appear at the top of the list. Pinning requires the Unlock All Features purchase.
What happens to pinned devices when they go out of range?
Pinned devices remain visible in the list when out of range, shown greyed out with their last known signal strength and info. You can still view their details, read notes, and unpin them while they're offline.
Notes
Where are my notes stored?
Notes are saved locally on your Mac only, keyed to each device's unique identifier. They are never uploaded or synced anywhere, and will be removed if you uninstall the app. Notes require the Unlock All Features purchase.
Unlock All Features
What does "Unlock All Features" include?
The one-time purchase unlocks: Search & Filter, Pin Devices (up to 10), Persistent Notes, Full UUID display, and Share. Core scanning, manufacturer detection, signal strength, and Copy are always free.
How do I restore a previous purchase?
Open the Info panel (ⓘ button in the toolbar) and tap "Restore Previous Purchase", or use the Restore button in the Unlock All Features paywall. Make sure you're signed in with the same Apple ID used for the original purchase.
Is BTScanner related to BTScan for iPhone?
Both apps are made by 7thChord Projects and share a similar purpose, but they are separate apps with separate purchases. BTScanner is built specifically for Mac with a macOS-native interface and additional features like pinning and search.
Privacy
Does BTScanner track my location?
No. BTScanner does not access or use your location at all. It only uses Bluetooth to detect nearby device broadcasts.
Is my data shared with anyone?
No. BTScanner does not collect, transmit, or share any data. See our Privacy Policy for full details.
Still need help?
If you couldn't find an answer above, reach out directly and we'll get back to you.
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