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Documentation Index

Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.myzendo.com/llms.txt

Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

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Intro

Nearby Device Pairing lets you add a new device to your Zendo by scanning a QR code and pair over your local network. There’s no link to share, no email to send, and no credentials to type. It’s ideal for wall-mounted tablets and other permanent devices where sharing a link isn’t practical, and for setting up multiple devices in batch - just scan the QR code on each device.

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How it works

Two devices are involved:
  • New device - the device being added to your Zendo.
  • Active device - a device already set up on your Zendo that will pair the new one.
The active device scans a QR code displayed on the new device. Both devices authenticate each other over your local network, and an invitation is sent securely - all without leaving the room.

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On the new device

  1. Open the Zendo app.
  2. On the welcome screen, press and hold the Zendo logo to enter pairing mode.
  3. Grant location permission if prompted (required to detect your Wi-Fi network).
  4. A QR code and a 6-character verification code appear. The screen stays awake while waiting.
  5. Keep this screen open until pairing is complete.

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On the active device

  1. Tap (Settings)
  2. Tap “People & Invitations”
  3. Tap “Setup Nearby Device”
  4. Grant location and camera permissions if prompted.
  5. Scan the QR code shown on the new device.
  6. A confirmation screen shows the new device’s name, type, and verification code. Verify the code matches what’s displayed on the new device, then tap Continue.
  7. The invite flow opens - choose who to invite. The invitation is created automatically. You can customise the floorplan for each device using Family Sharing (Access Control).
  8. Tap Done.

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Back on the new device

The device activates automatically. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete setup.

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Requirements

  • Both devices must be on the same Wi-Fi network.
  • The network must allow devices to communicate with each other (client isolation must be off, multicast must be allowed). Connections across VLANs may not work.
  • Both devices need internet access to complete onboarding.

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Security

The pairing process uses mutual authentication and encryption:
  • The QR code contains a one-time passcode used by both devices to authenticate each other. It is never sent over the network.
  • All communication after the initial handshake is encrypted.
  • Each session uses unique encryption keys (forward secrecy).
  • An eavesdropper on the network cannot recover the passcode or decrypt the session.
The QR code is only valid for a single pairing session. Once used or dismissed, a new code must be generated. Keep the QR code private - anyone who can see it can use it to pair with the device.
Nearby Device Pairing follows a similar approach to the Matter smart home standard, using SPAKE2+ for secure device commissioning.

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Troubleshooting

  • Can’t connect - make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network. The QR code screen shows the network name so you can verify.
  • Connection drops - check that your router doesn’t isolate Wi-Fi clients from each other.
  • No internet - both devices need internet access to complete onboarding. Make sure they are connected to a Wi-Fi network with internet access.