AirTurn
Next-generation firmware platform, iOS/macOS companion apps, and developer framework for Bluetooth page-turning pedals and remotes.
Services Provided
Technologies
Overview
AirTurn pedals and handheld remotes allow musicians to turn pages in sheet music apps, advance presentation slides, control media playback, improve accessibility, or perform complex custom actions—all hands-free via Bluetooth.
NRB Tech has been AirTurn’s development partner for over a decade, responsible for firmware across their entire product line, iOS and macOS companion applications, and the framework that third-party iOS developers use to add AirTurn support to their apps.
Next-Generation Firmware Platform
In 2025, we completed a major migration of AirTurn’s firmware to a modern, field-updatable architecture based on the nRF Connect SDK and Zephyr RTOS. This transition enables faster feature deployment and ensures long-term security and stability for all connected pedals.
Key outcomes:
- Field Updates — New features and fixes can be deployed via Over-the-Air updates, extending product lifespan
- Improved user experience — The new firmware includes user friendly multi-colour LED animations, and a sophisticated and flexible user configuration system.
- GoPro Camera Integration — Direct Bluetooth LE control for GoPro cameras, allowing performers to start/stop recordings and monitor camera status from their pedals
- Hall Effect Sensor Calibration — Dynamic calibration system for analog buttons with hardware-level drift correction, ensuring consistent feel regardless of temperature or wear
- Future-Proof Platform — Built on nRF Connect SDK and Zephyr RTOS for long-term stability and security
AirTurn Studio App
The companion iOS/macOS application delivers a seamless user experience from first pairing through ongoing use:
- One-Tap Pairing — Users pair devices as easily as AirPods, using Apple’s AccessorySetupKit
- Painless Firmware Updates — Updates happen in-app with progress tracking and automatic rollback if anything goes wrong
- Cross-Platform Consistency — Same experience across iPhone, iPad, and Mac with native SwiftUI design
Android Media Service
Android users get the same seamless media control experience—intelligent Play/Pause and track control that works even when the app is in the background.
Developer Ecosystem
A third-party developer framework enables iOS app developers to add native AirTurn support, expanding the ecosystem of compatible apps and increasing product value for end users.
Technical Foundation
The platform includes infrastructure that supports long-term reliability and maintainability:
- Protocol Buffers — Standardised communication ensures firmware changes automatically work with iOS and Android apps
- Automated Testing — Hundreds of BLE communication scenarios validated before every release
- Manufacturing Integration — Devices ship ready to use with provisioning data injected during production