BTECH Launches Firmware V0.44 for BF-F8HP PRO – Packed with Smart Enhancements and User-Friendly Fixes

Wednesday,  April 16, 2025

ARLINGTON, SD – BTECH continues its commitment to innovation and user experience with the launch of an exciting new firmware update, V0.44, for the widely acclaimed BF-F8HP PRO handheld radio. Designed with extensive user feedback and practical field use in mind, this upgrade introduces significant improvements, intuitive enhancements, and crucial fixes that ensure your radio operates at peak performance. No matter how you use the BF-F8HP PRO firmware V0.44 delivers enhanced usability and versatility. Below you’ll find a detailed rundown of what’s new and how it benefits you!

New Features:

Revolutionary Linked Zone Scanning

One of the biggest upgrades is Linked Zones scanning—a highly requested feature! Now you can scan multiple zones at once, broadening your monitoring capabilities significantly. Select your zones via Menu > Scan > Scan Zones and turn on Link Zones to easily manage complex scanning setups.

Dual Watch Gets More Intuitive

Firmware V0.44 makes Dual Watch mode easier to use by clearly showing which channel (A or B) you’re set to transmit on with a new antenna icon. Outdoor enthusiasts, in particular, will appreciate this clear visual indication, eliminating any guesswork in bright environments.

Streamlined Channel Programming

Gone are the days of saving channel names first, then revisiting to save additional settings. Firmware V0.44 simplifies this process dramatically—now, when programming a new channel directly from your keypad, all changes take effect immediately. It’s quicker, simpler, and less prone to mistakes.

Customizable Side Key Controls

To prevent accidental key presses, you now have the flexibility to disable side keys (SK1, SK2, PTT). This is great if you use a radio case, or if you’re configuring the radio for less experienced users. Easily adjust these settings from the Radio Function menu in CPS.

Firmware Improvements:

Accurate Power-On Display Timing

Ever noticed the power-on screen hanging around longer than it should? That issue is now history. Firmware V0.44 corrects the display timing, perfectly aligning the duration with your set preference, ensuring your radio boots exactly as expected every time.

Enhanced Elevation Reporting in Feet

For users preferring imperial units, elevation reporting now displays in feet when GPS Units are set to MPH—aligning with familiar measurements for quicker interpretation.

Aircraft Band Scan Preservation

If you’re scanning frequencies in the aircraft bands, you’ll be pleased to know that your selected scan range is now reliably preserved—even after restarting the radio. This ensures a seamless and uninterrupted monitoring experience.

Enhanced GPS Speed Reporting

Previously, you might have seen a confusing 1.24 MPH speed indication before a GPS lock was acquired. The new firmware eliminates this oddity, giving you more precise speed reporting. Remember, for optimal accuracy, keep a steady pace in one direction.

Clearer GPS Status Indicators

When switching between Radio IDs, GPS coordinates, or distance views, you’ll no longer experience the GPS indicator disappearing momentarily. This refinement makes checking your status straightforward and uninterrupted.

Improved GPS Display

You’ll now see how many satellites your BF-F8HP PRO is tracking directly on the GPS screen. This addition gives immediate insight into the accuracy of your position, elevation, and speed data.

The full firmware release notes are included in the V.44 download below

Experience the BF-F8HP PRO Advantage

Thinking of upgrading your gear? Now’s the perfect moment to explore the BF-F8HP PRO’s advanced capabilities—GPS integration, Linked Zone scanning, customizable keys, and improved reliability ensure your radio communications are ready for any challenge.

How to Update Your Firmware

To download the firmware update for the BF-F8HP PRO, visit the official BF-F8HP PRO product page and navigate to the Firmware Update, CPS, and Manual tab. Here, you’ll find the BF-F8HP PRO V.44 Firmware Update Bundle with the latest firmware file, CPS programming software, and user manual.

Step 1: Open CPS Software and Access Firmware Update Tool

1. Open the BTECH BF-F8HP PRO CPS software on your computer.
2. In the top menu bar, select Tools (T).
3. From the dropdown menu, choose Radio firmware update.

Step 2: Connect Your Radio and Enter Bootloader Mode

1. Use a PC03 programming cable to connect your BF-F8HP PRO radio to your computer.
2. Place the radio in bootloader mode:
   • Turn off the radio.
   • While holding down both side keys, turn the radio back on.
   • The radio screen will remain blank, and the green Rx LED will light up, indicating that it is in bootloader mode.

Step 3: Select Firmware File and COM Port

1. In the Bootloader window, click the … (browse) button to locate the firmware file.
   • A file selection window will appear. Navigate to the folder where you saved the firmware file (e.g., BTECH_V0.44_250409.kdhx), select it, and click Open.
2. Select the COM port that corresponds to your connected radio.

Step 4: Start the Firmware Update

1. With the correct firmware file and COM port selected, click the Manual download button to start the update process.
2. The firmware will be downloaded to the radio. Wait until the process completes.

Step 5: Verify Firmware Update

1. Once the update is complete, disconnect the radio from the computer.
2. Power on the radio, then check the firmware version:
   • Go to Menu > Radio Info to confirm that the firmware has been successfully updated to the new version.

Your BF-F8HP PRO is now updated with the latest firmware.

Your Feedback Shapes the Future

We thrive on your input. Let us know your thoughts on firmware V0.44, suggest improvements, or share your favorite features. Your voice helps us continuously enhance our radios!

Why Choose BTECH?

At BTECH, we’re dedicated to ongoing innovation and robust support for our products. Our firmware updates mean your BF-F8HP PRO stays ahead, packed with the latest radio technology. Thank you for being part of our growing BTECH community. Update now and see the difference Firmware V0.44 makes!

About BTECH

BTECH is a leader in two-way radio innovation for amateurs, professionals, and emergency services. We focus on solid performance, practical features, and a user-friendly experience. For more information, visit www.baofengtech.com or contact us at [email protected]

Thank you for being part of the BTECH community. Stay informed, stay connected, and enjoy everything Firmware V.44 has to offer.