Why integrate with Ledger Live?
Ledger Live (also known as Ledger Wallet in documentation updates) is the official desktop and mobile companion to Ledger hardware wallets. Integrating with Ledger Live gives your dApp, wallet, or blockchain immediate access to a secure, user-trusted distribution channel and a large user base that prioritizes custody and secure signing flows.
Integration types: quick overview
There are three common integration pathways:
- Blockchain / Account Support: Add native account support so users can hold balances, submit transactions, and view history inside Ledger Live.
- Live Apps (Discover): Embed web-native dApps into the Discover/Live Apps section so your application runs inside Ledger Live's secure container.
- Service Integrations: Payment, swap, or custodial services that interact with Ledger's APIs and services kit to offer in-app operations.
What you need before starting
Before you build, ensure you have a clear product definition (what accounts/tx types you’ll support), test hardware for signing flows, and a developer account with Ledger if the integration requires submission or review. Ledger’s Developer Portal contains in-depth guides, API references and SDKs to help you pick the correct path. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
Live Apps: architecture & Wallet API
Live Apps are built to run inside Ledger Live using the Ledger Services Kit and Wallet API client. This model creates a secure bridge between your web app and the user’s Ledger signer. You’ll use the Wallet API Client (published and documented on the Developer Portal) to perform actions such as requesting signatures, reading accounts, and opening secure dialogs. For EVM dApps, Ledger also describes a dAppBrowser based path and additional signing flows. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
Pro tip: target the Wallet API first for deep integration; it provides the tightest UX inside Ledger Live and simplifies security considerations around signing and account management.
Developer workflow & building locally
Ledger offers tutorials for running Ledger Live from source, local development tips, and instructions for linking local packages so you can test Wallet API interactions without repeatedly publishing to npm. This streamlines iteration and debugging during early integration. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
App submission & review
When your integration reaches a releasable state, Ledger’s submission process outlines deliverables: documentation, install instructions, setup, supported assets, and security considerations. Some integration types (e.g. adding blockchain account support) require agreements and a formal onboarding with the Ledger team — don’t start large-scale dev work before you’ve confirmed acceptance criteria. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
Security considerations
Ledger enforces strict signing, transaction confirmation and manifest rules to maintain a consistent security posture for Ledger Live users. Respect clear signing UX patterns (showing amounts, recipients) and avoid unexpected prompts. Test on real devices often — simulators are useful early, but hardware tests are mandatory for final verification.
Best practices for integration success
1. Start with documentation
Read the “Ledger Live integrations” and “Discover / Live Apps” sections on the Developer Portal to identify the correct path and necessary forms. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
2. Provide clear user flows
Create simple UX flows for onboarding, signing, and error handling. Ledger users expect explicit confirmation steps. Provide clear instructions for installing Ledger device apps (if needed) and installing any protocol-specific software.
3. Use the official SDKs & clients
Re-use Ledger’s Wallet API Client and related SDKs when possible. They abstract low-level communication and reduce maintenance overhead. Official repo references and code examples are available on Ledger’s GitHub and the Developer Portal. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
4. Automate tests & CI
Add automated tests for serialization, transaction format, and signature verification. Consider running integration tests that use mocked devices and a restricted set of real testnets.
10 Official Ledger links (quick access)
These are the primary official resources you’ll want bookmarked while integrating:
Common pitfalls & troubleshooting
Many integrators hit the same issues: mismatched transaction serialization, UI/UX divergence from Ledger expectations, missing manifest fields, and forgotten consent flows. Use the Developer Portal checklists and test on both Desktop and Mobile Ledger Live builds. If you need deeper help, the portal also outlines how to contact Ledger’s integration team for onboarding steps.
Deployment checklist (short)
- Confirm signing/tx flows on real Ledger hardware.
- Complete documentation and deliverables as specified.
- Submit required forms/agreements for blockchain account support (if applicable).
- Test install flows in a fresh Ledger Live install (no dev flags).
- Plan for updates — Ledger Live updates may require small integration changes over time.
Final thoughts
Integrating with Ledger Live is powerful — it provides access to users who care deeply about custody and security. The Developer Portal, Wallet API, and related docs are the single best starting point for success. Prioritize secure signing UX, follow official SDKs, and work with Ledger’s review process early to avoid late surprises. Good integrations are iterative: start small (basic account + signing), test thoroughly, then expand Live App features.