Firmware Updates
The tbd 16 has two ways to update firmware: the built-in WebUI updater (preferred) and the web flasher (recovery). Always try the WebUI updater first — it can update everything on the device over your local network.
1. The WebUI System Updater (preferred)
Open the WebUI and click System Updater in the footer of any page — or access it from the Configuration overlay (cog icon) on most screens.
The updater handles four components, each with its own collapsible section:
| Component | What it updates |
|---|---|
| WebUI | The browser interface you’re looking at |
| P4 Firmware | Audio DSP firmware (ESP32-P4) |
| Pico Firmware | Hardware UI / sequencer firmware (RP2350) |
| Factory Data | Default kits, presets, and factory content |
What you’ll see
- Version summary cards at the top show each component’s current version and status (checking → up-to-date / outdated / offline).
- An Update All banner appears when multiple components have updates available, with a step tracker that walks you through them.
- Each component section has:
- A progress bar and activity log for the running update
- An online check for new versions on the selected update channel
- A manual upload panel (drag-drop a
.zipor.binor click to browse)
- Factory Data additionally supports backup / restore workflows.
Update channel
In the header, choose the update channel:
- Stable — recommended for everyday use
- Staging — early access to new features (may be unstable)
2. If the WebUI updater fails
If the WebUI itself won’t load or the built-in updater cannot complete — for example after an interrupted WebUI update — use the web flasher to reflash from scratch over USB.
The web flasher is the only place to flash the firmware if the in-device updater is unavailable.
The web flasher runs in your browser (Chrome or Edge). It uses WebUSB to connect to the tbd 16 and write a full firmware image. Follow the steps on that page.
Choosing which updater to use
| Situation | Use |
|---|---|
| Normal updates | WebUI System Updater (Stable channel) |
| Early-access testing | WebUI System Updater (Staging channel) |
| WebUI won’t load | Web flasher |
| Recovering a bricked device | Web flasher |
| Initial bring-up / factory reset | Web flasher |
Tips
- Back up first. Before any firmware update, back up your Factory Data from the updater and export your kits and presets from the File Manager and Preset / Macro Manager.
- Power. Keep the tbd 16 powered during the entire update — a cut mid-flash can corrupt the partition.
- Network stability. For online updates, use a stable WiFi connection.
See also: TBD platform → Flash & Updates for the platform-level flash reference.