# Kaleido HiBean BLE Firmware
# SnowBear Firmware Installation
Kaleido currently uses Classic Bluetooth to talk to HiBean a dated standard that, importantly, isn't supported on iOS at all. This project is a workaround that finally brings Kaleido connectivity to iPhones and iPads. It also pairs nicely with Bear's bridge for connecting devices over BLE Serial, which sidesteps the long-standing issues Classic Bluetooth SPP has on macOS, especially on Apple Silicon. Brought to you by Bear of the Skywalker community, with support from Will\_Z at HiBean.
[](https://skywiki.coffee/uploads/images/gallery/2026-05/hD8image.png)
### **Requirements**
**This is still in Beta and code is still being worked on. Please report any issues you have to our Community Discord.**
1. [**ESP32-S3**:](https://www.amazon.com/Waveshare-Development-ESP32-S3FH4R2-Dual-Core-Processor/dp/B0CHYHGYRH/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=r9sWT&content-id=amzn1.sym.255b3518-6e7f-495c-8611-30a58648072e%3Aamzn1.symc.a68f4ca3-28dc-4388-a2cf-24672c480d8f&pf_rd_p=255b3518-6e7f-495c-8611-30a58648072e&pf_rd_r=5B6XB3S76AN41GG53BPF&pd_rd_wg=jrSyV&pd_rd_r=0c2acad7-cc3f-40c5-8e89-116521cb0165&ref_=pd_hp_d_atf_ci_mcx_mr_ca_hp_atf_d)
Ensure you have the ESP32-S3 board and a USB cable.
[](https://skywiki.coffee/uploads/images/gallery/2025-01/9Edimage.png)
2. [Power Data Y Cable](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07VVX257H?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1)
3. 5v USB Power Source
[](https://skywiki.coffee/uploads/images/gallery/2026-05/GQ9image.png)
1. **Binary File Link**:
[SnowBear](https://github.com/galangl/SkywalkerRoasterLab/blob/main/HiBean/BLE_host_v1.2z_Kaleido_SnowBear.bin)
2. **Browser**: Use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge (supports Web Serial) [ESPHome](https://web.esphome.io/)
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### **Steps**
#### **1. Download the Binary File**
1. Open the GitHub link: TBA
2. Click on the download raw file icon to download 
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#### **2. Open ESPHome Web**
1. Go to [ESPHome Web](https://web.esphome.io/)
in your Chrome or Edge browser.
2. Make sure your ESP32-S3 is connected to your computer using a USB cable.
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#### **3. Connect the ESP32-S3**
1. On the ESPHome Web page, click the **Connect** button.
2. A pop-up will appear with available devices. Select the port for your ESP32-S3 and click **Connect**.
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#### **4. Install the Binary File**
1. Once connected, click **Install**.
2. Choose **File** when prompted
3. In the file selection dialog, locate and select the BLE\_host\_v1.2z\_Kaleido\_SnowBear.bin bin file you downloaded earlier.
4. Click **Install** to start the flashing process.
5. 
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#### **5. Flash the Firmware**
- ESPHome Web will erase the existing firmware and flash the BLE\_host\_v1.2z\_Kaleido\_SnowBear.bin binary.
- The flashing process may take a few minutes. Wait for it to complete.
- After successful installation, a success message will appear.
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### **Direct Link to Binary File**
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### **Troubleshooting**
- **Device Not Recognized**: Ensure your USB cable supports data transfer.
- **Flashing Errors**
- **Hold BOOT and press RESET (recommended method):**
1. Hold down the **BOOT** button.
2. While holding BOOT, press and release the **RESET** button.
3. Continue holding BOOT for a second, then release it.
1. 1. **Unplug and replug while holding the BOOT button:**
1. Disconnect the ESP32-S3 from power (USB).
2. Press and hold the **BOOT** button.
3. While holding BOOT, plug the USB back in.
4. Once connected, release the BOOT button.
- Let me know if you encounter issues or need further help!
BIG Thank you to Bear of the Skywalker Community Discord and Will\_Z for getting this option to work.