General Description
 
The BL-1 offers a unique way to program your FM handheld without the need of a computer. The module connects to approximately 50 handhelds using the Bluetooth connection from an Android or iOS device and an app for your device.
 
 
In the Package
 
Included is the following:
-  BL-1  Bluetooth Programmer
-  USB charging cable
-  Basic instruction sheet

It weighs in at 1.75 oz  (50g)
Size is  1.75" x 2.0"  (4.5 x 5.1 cm)
 
 
Form Factor
 
The BL-1 is a self contained device using a standard K1 that plugs directly into the radio with no wires attached. It does come with a USB cable which is used strictly for charging the module.
  Insertion Note
 
The main difference between the V1 and V2 is the case design. On the original BL-1, the K1 side cover on some handhelds can push against the BL-1. Although this won't damage the programmer, it may put a little extra pressure on the radio's programming jack. If this occurs, you may need to press the cover back with your thumb to relieve the pressure.
 
The V2 case shown here is above the K1 cover, relieving the pressure. It also uses a USB-C cable for charging as opposed to the original USB Mini.
 

V1.0                 V2.0

Software
 
Unlike most software, there is no computer required as the BL-1 is 'app' driven.
The Odmaster app is available for download for either an Android or iOS device. I was able to successfully program mine with my Android tablet, iPad and iPhone.
   
The list of compatible models is continuously growing.
Odmaster now covers over 15 different vendors. The list keeps growing.
Included models are now: Baofeng, Quansheng, Talkpad, TID, TIDRADIO, Tenway, Radioddity, Retevis, Ansoko, Anysecu, Rugged, Intek, Techside, WLN, Zastone, Luiton, Pxton Arcshell...

The new compatibility list can be found at the Odmaster website.
 
The format for programming is straight forward. Channel, TX/RX frequency and CTCSS tones. The function tab allows you to set squelch levels, scan modes, etc.
 

click to enlarge

 
When the programming is complete, you have the ability to save the image for next time.
 
Data Base *
 
The latest version of the BL1 software now includes access to a Repeater Database. By selecting a location, a list of repeaters for that area will be generated. You are able to select the desired repeater and the channel to be loaded.
 
 
App Notes
 
The app is safe and fully complies with the rules of Google Play and the Apple Store or it would not be published for download. It does require that you turn on location as it needs to connect to your devices Bluetooth.
 
This is a dual function app that also has a 'social' function built in. This allows POC operation (PTT Over Cellular) if desired. Information such as birthday, etc. are not required and you can decline the permission request for the POC option.
 
I've been using my BL-1 for several months with an iPad, iPhone, Android tablet and Win10 PC with no issues.
 
 
Online Programming Support
 
The BL-1 module is programmed via Bluetooth to an iOS/Android device using an app named "Odmaster". This app requires a user name and password.
 
The image files created using this app are stored offline. The advantage is that you can have multiple iOS/Android devices and multiple BL-1 all able to access these image files.
 
This data can also be accessed via the Odmaster Website.
This gives the added flexibility to create and modify your data images using a laptop or PC. Here are a few sample website images.
 

click on images to enlarge

 
Pros
 
-  Bluetooth. No programming cable or drivers required.
-  Both iOS and Android.
-  Web based programming via Odmaster
-  Small size. Great for Field programming
-  Automatic repeater selection from repeater database
 
Observations
 
-  Over 50 different models covered at this time.
-  New models are continually being added.
 
 
In Summary
 
The BL-1 is still fairly new so there might be a few small bugs in some of the beta radios being added. The advantage is that you don't need to upgrade the BL-1. All updates are automatically added to the app. This was not meant to replace any existing PC software, but rather a Bluetooth programming alternative.
 
No programming cable is required and it's a lot quicker than using the keypad to search through the menu options. It works especially well for handhelds without a screen. (BF888s, TD777s, etc).
 
The list of supported radios is continually growing as the app is further developed. I can see Bluetooth programming becoming more of a standard programming option in the future.
 
 
 
Update: December 2021
 
The BL-1 v2 shown below has a reverse case design, blue indicator and Type C USB charge port. Both use the same apps.
   
 
 

Note: This equipment was received for the purpose of a fair and unbiased review. All findings are factual based on the equipment I received. Any issues found have been reported both here and back to the seller or manufacturer.

Amazon:   TIDRADIO  BL-1      V1                                     V2 Bluetooth Programmer