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Join a Group

To join an existing group, you need an invite code from a group admin.

There are two code formats, the app detects the type automatically:

  • FLS-…, an online group (syncs over the internet)
  • FLT-…, a Radio group (works offline over radio mesh). Radio codes encode the full group config, name, channel, color, icon, directly in the string

Join by entering a code​

  1. On the home screen, tap the + button
  2. Select Join a group
  3. Type or paste the invite code
  4. Tap Join

For online groups you'll be added as a Member immediately and taken to the map. For Radio groups, the group config is decoded from the code and the group is set up locally on your device.

Join by scanning a QR code​

  1. On the home screen, tap + → Join a group
  2. Tap the QR icon next to the code input
  3. Point your camera at the group's QR code
  4. The app joins automatically, no typing required

QR codes work for both online and Radio groups.

If someone shared a direct invite link, tap it on your device. Flaresat opens and takes you straight to the join screen. If you're not signed in yet, you'll be prompted to sign in first, then the join completes automatically.

On web, if Flaresat isn't installed, the page shows options to open the app, download it, or continue in the browser.

What happens after you join​

online group:

  • The group appears on your home screen
  • You see the map, all pins, routes, areas, and chat history
  • Your role is Member by default, you can create map items, chat, and share your location, but not manage group settings

Radio group:

  • The group appears on your home screen under RADIO
  • Group data syncs over the mesh once you connect a radio device
  • All members have equal access, there are no role restrictions in Radio groups
Joining a Radio group on web

If you join a Radio group using the Flaresat web app, the group is stored in your browser only, it will not appear on your phone app. To use a Radio group on your phone, join by entering the code (or scanning the QR) in the iOS or Android app.

Invite code tips​

  • Codes are case-insensitive
  • If you enter an invalid or expired code, the app tells you what went wrong
  • Entering a code for a group you're already in shows an error, navigate to it from the home screen instead