DocumentationHow to Set Up the B-hyve App
How to use the B-hyve app: download it, create an account, pair your device and set up zones. Steps depend on your controller or hose timer model.
To use the B-hyve app, download the free B-hyve app on your iPhone or Android phone, create an account, then pair your controller or timer. Pairing steps differ by model, so follow the manual for your exact model.
Which app should I download?
Download the app named B-hyve from Orbit Irrigation.
Do not download B-hyve Pro unless you are a landscape professional. It is a separate app, and its Google Play listing directs homeowners to the regular B-hyve app. OrbitAssist is also a different app. It is a network troubleshooting tool, not the main watering app.
Minimum phone software versions change over time. At the time of the research for this site, the Apple listing required iOS 15.1 or later. Check the live store page for the current requirement.
What are the basic setup steps?
- Install the B-hyve app and create an account.
- Turn on Bluetooth on your phone. The app uses it to find nearby devices.
- Add your device in the app and follow its on-screen pairing prompts.
- Connect the device to Wi-Fi, or to a hub if your timer uses one.
- Set up your zones.
- Create a watering program or turn on smart watering.
Orbit's manuals and video walkthroughs cover each model. The Orbit manuals page groups manuals by model number.
Does my device need a hub?
It depends on the device.
| Device | Connection |
|---|---|
| 57925 indoor controller | Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz |
| B-hyve XR (57985, 57995) | Built-in Wi-Fi, 2.4 and 5 GHz |
| Gen 1 hose timers (21005) | Gen 1 hub for Wi-Fi functions |
| Gen 2 and XD hose timers | Bluetooth alone, or a Gen 2 hub for Wi-Fi functions |
Compatible hose timers can be set up and run over Bluetooth without Wi-Fi. A hub is needed for remote access, notifications, watering history and WeatherSense. Gen 1 and Gen 2 hubs are not interchangeable. See Which B-hyve hub works with my timer?.
What do I need to set up smart watering?
For each zone, the app asks about things like soil type, sun exposure, vegetation, slope and watering restrictions. Orbit uses these with local weather data to calculate watering. See What is B-hyve smart watering?.
What problems do owners run into?
Reviews of the app on the App Store mention a few recurring issues, paraphrased here:
- A hub added in the app does not always add the valve or timer with it.
- Connecting a device to a phone can take some effort the first time.
- Some owners had trouble removing a device from their account and re-adding it.
If setup stalls on Wi-Fi, read B-hyve not connecting to Wi-Fi. Orbit's guidance also checks whether the device connected before, whether your network or password changed, and whether Bluetooth is on.
Can I share my device with someone else?
Yes, for supported devices. The other person signs in with their own B-hyve account. Orbit states that sharing is not available for flood sensors.
Related
Who Makes B-hyve? Orbit, Hydro-Rain and Husqvarna Explained
Who makes B-hyve? Orbit makes it. Orbit Irrigation became part of Husqvarna Group's Gardena Division; Hydro-Rain relates to the B-hyve Pro line.
B-hyve App vs B-hyve Pro
B-hyve vs B-hyve Pro app: B-hyve is the free homeowner app for Orbit devices; B-hyve Pro is a separate app for irrigation professionals.