OpenSDR Radio Host (RTL-SDR)

OpenSDR Radio Host turns a compatible USB RTL-SDR receiver into a local Android listening setup, with audio playback, a live spectrum and scrolling waterfall.

Use it as a standalone receiver. No app account is required and there are no ads.

RECEIVE AND EXPLORE

- Tune frequencies directly or with adjustable frequency steps.

- Choose AM, AM Sync, LSB, USB, NFM or WFM demodulation.

- Return to recent frequencies with their modulation and squelch settings.

- Inspect a live FFT spectrum and waterfall with manual floor and contrast.

- Adjust receiver settings and use low-CPU AM profiles.

- Keep receiver audio playing with the screen locked and stop it from the notification.

- View device, USB and audio diagnostics; share a report only when you choose.

HARDWARE REQUIRED

You need a compatible RTL-SDR USB receiver, antenna, Android device with USB-host support and an appropriate OTG connection. Grant Android USB permission when prompted. Hardware is not included, and the receiver must have sufficient power.

Frequency coverage depends on the receiver. Selecting a modulation does not extend the receiver's tuning range. Other SDR families, including SDRplay and HackRF, are not currently supported. This is local USB radio reception, not an internet radio service. Android 7.0 or newer is required.

OPEN SOURCE

The public OpenSDR package contains the Host, receiver core, shared IPC contract and build documentation. The project-owned Host and core are GNU GPL version 2 or later; the shared Radio API uses MIT for independent open-source or proprietary clients. Third-party components keep their own licenses, including GPL-covered RTL-SDR code and LGPL-covered libusb. See the project website for licenses and the source release corresponding to the distributed app. Self-built hosts require compatible signing to work with official clients.

Source: https://github.com/rafal-dot/opensdr-app/

RESPONSIBLE HOBBY USE

OpenSDR is a general-purpose radio receiver for hobby listening and experimentation. It is not a safety-critical, navigation or operational decision-making system. Check local laws before receiving, recording or sharing any radio communications or signals. These activities may be permitted, restricted or prohibited depending on your location, the radio service and your authorisation. The ability to receive a signal does not imply legal permission to listen to, record or share it.