App Not Connecting
Ryze Tello Drone
Severity:What Does This Error Mean?
Tello app not connecting means your phone is not joined to the Tello's Wi-Fi hotspot, or the app cannot find the drone on the network. Connect your phone's Wi-Fi to the 'TELLO-XXXXXX' network first, then open the app.
Affected Models
- Ryze Tello
- Ryze Tello EDU
Common Causes
- Phone not connected to the Tello's Wi-Fi hotspot
- Phone auto-switched back to home Wi-Fi or mobile data
- Tello Wi-Fi password changed via the app previously
- Tello app needs an update
- Phone firewall app blocking the Tello's local IP
How to Fix It
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Power on the Tello and wait for the LED to flash yellow.
A yellow flashing LED means the Tello is broadcasting its Wi-Fi hotspot and is ready to pair. If the LED is solid yellow, it is charging. Solid or flashing other colours indicate a different state.
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Connect your phone Wi-Fi to the Tello's network.
Open your phone's Wi-Fi settings. Connect to the network named 'TELLO-XXXXXX' (the X's are unique to your drone). Default password: none (open network) on most Tello units.
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Disable mobile data while using the Tello app.
Android phones often switch to mobile data when the connected Wi-Fi has no internet. Disable mobile data before opening the Tello app to prevent this. iPhone users: tap 'Keep using this network without internet' if prompted.
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Force-close the Tello app and reopen it.
Swipe the Tello app away from recent apps. Then confirm your phone is on the Tello Wi-Fi and reopen the app. The app connects automatically once the phone is on the right network.
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Reset the Tello Wi-Fi password if it was changed.
If the Tello password was changed and forgotten: hold the power button for 5 seconds until the LED turns off and on. This factory resets the Tello — the Wi-Fi returns to the default open network.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Ryze Tello app work on Android and iPhone?
Yes. The Tello app is available for both iOS (App Store) and Android (Google Play). It also works with third-party apps like DroneBlocks for education and coding use.
Can I fly the Tello without the app?
The Tello can be controlled with a Bluetooth game controller paired via the Tello app, but the app is required for initial setup and most flights. The Tello EDU can be programmed via Python/Scratch SDK without the app once set up.