Flipper Zero Launches Proprietary Mobile App Store ‘Flipper Apps’

Flipper Zero, the multifunction pocket tool widely popular among hacking enthusiasts and security researchers, has just rolled out its proprietary mobile app store, "Flipper Apps."

This new feature lets users directly install third-party apps on their Flipper Zero devices, vastly improving convenience and expanding the device's functionality without the need for computers or USB cables.

The Flipper Zero device is renowned for its versatile hardware, including RFID emulation, NFC, Sub-Ghz antenna, Bluetooth, radio communication, digital access key cloning, and more - all housed in a device that's smaller, albeit bulkier, than a typical smartphone.

The device's ability to interact with garage doors, television sets, Tesla charging ports and various other systems has provoked debate about its potential for misuse. However, many attest to its value as a powerful tool for education and security research when used responsibly.

"Over 350,000 customers use Flipper Zero to interact with wireless devices, such as IoT sensors, TVs, and ACs, and access control systems like garage doors, boom barriers, remote keyless systems, and RFID card systems," the company stated in a press release. "With the launch of Flipper Apps, users can extend their devices' functionality with custom applications. A host of specific purpose apps from third-party developers are already available for download."

Previously, Flipper Zero users had to find apps on their own, often from code repositories like GitHub or closed channels like Discord, and load them manually onto a microSD card for use with the device. The introduction of the Flipper Apps store streamlines this process, letting users browse a gallery of curated apps and install them at the touch of a button.

Built into the latest Android and iOS apps for Flipper Zero, Flipper Apps offers apps, games, NFC apps, universal remotes, fuzzers, temperature sensor readers, authenticators and GPIO apps.

Flipper Zero, though, has faced criticism and legal challenges due to concerns about its potential misuse. In Brazil, the device has been banned outright, while online marketplace giant Amazon has classified it as a "card skimming device," prohibiting its sale on the platform.

Despite this controversy, the launch of Flipper Apps marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Flipper Zero platform, promising to expand its capabilities and provide a more user-friendly experience for its extensive user base.