# Greyline FT8 — Field-Ready Digital Ham Radio > Portable digital ham radio app for field operations on iOS. (iPhone/iPad app by JONATHAN MARK SCHULMAN.) - Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/greyline-ft8/id6773455172 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`) - Developer: [JONATHAN MARK SCHULMAN](https://appshunter.io/developer/6773455174) - Category: Utilities, Education - Price: $3.99 - Rating: 4.80/5 from 12 App Store ratings · 9 written reviews indexed - Age rating: 4+ - Requires: iOS 26.5 · 18 MB - Languages: American English - Released: 2026-06-11 - Data updated: 2026-09-01 - Monetization: paid - User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/greyline-ft8/id6773455172/reviews.md ## What is Greyline FT8? Greyline FT8 is a highly portable, capable amateur radio app designed specifically for field operation with an iOS device. I designed this app because I got very used to my full-stack FT8 solution: GridTracker, WSJT-X, PSK Reporter, WRL Desktop, several browser tabs, and more. But I didn't want the bulk and weight of a full Windows PC in the field. At the same time, while there are excellent and lightweight FT8 iOS solutions out there, they were lacking features I really wanted. Greyline is everything you need and nothing you don't. It automatically locates your grid square, performs callsign and calling station DXCC lookups (internet access required), and can even show you real-time spot data from PSK Reporter. Want to adjust your directional antenna? Now you've got the info you need to do it! Greyline also incorporates automated calling features. Gatherer mode calls CQ, responds to the first reply it gets, finishes the QSO and returns to calling CQ all without your input. On the other side of things, Hunter mode listens for CQ calls and pounces on them, finishing a QSO then returning to the live band to find the next. Or, take control of the conversation yourself with standard mode. That's the experience you're already used to from WSJT-X and other digital mode apps. Some other noteworthy features are: - Intelligent automatic free frequency selection - Dynamically adjusted audio delay for virtually drift-free message timing - PSK Reporter integrated Live Spots - Direct-to-QRZ, WRL and private Cloudlog logging and ADI export - Configurable waterfall settings - CQ addendums - CQ filtering for contesting and general courteous operation - Configurable retransmissions - Intelligent log recovery (didn't get that last 73 but want to log the contact anyway? Now you can!) - Log import and export - Antenna tuning - POTA Autospotting - One touch POTA activation and POTA.app-compatible ADIF export - Multiple POTA activation support - And so much more! Greyline uses audio VOX and not serial PTT. Most radios support this with simple cabling or an audio interface like a Digirig. For helpful tips on cabling and configuring popular radios, visit the Support URL below. Built by a ham, for hams, I'm very open to your feedback and hope Greyline can be your field companion. Want to share your own Field Notes (https://greylineft8.com/fieldnotes.html)? Email me at support@greylineft8.com! ## Key features - Field-ready digital ham radio - Automated callsign and DXCC lookups - Real-time PSK Reporter spot data - Automated CQ Gatherer and Hunter modes - Intelligent automatic frequency selection - Direct-to-QRZ logging and ADI export ## Chart rankings - #32 in Top Paid · Utilities (US App Store) ## Recent user reviews (9 of 9) All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/greyline-ft8/id6773455172/reviews.md ### 5/5 — OUTSTANDING!!! *2026-08-26* Started this program as a lightweight alternative to other FT8/FT4 programs. Using this App with the QMX and iPhone reduces weight astronomically, allowing for both POTA and SOTA. It functions extremely well, and the Hunter/Gatherer modes are a total hoot. This is so far, the best App for the aforementioned digital modes I’ve encountered so far. Kudos to Jon for creating this gem! **Developer response:** I’m so glad you’re enjoying! The iPhone is how I always imagined the app being used so it makes me really happy you’re getting out there with a pocket station. Not that I don’t love my iPads too. Keep hunting and hope to catch you down the log! 73 KB0RB ### 5/5 — Absolutely Fantastic App! *2026-08-08* Kudos to the developer, this is a POTA game changer having the ability to use my iPad for FT8 vs lugging a laptop around. Incredibly easy setup, I was up and running in minutes, no configurations, just a few settings and you’re on the air! Thanks for all your hard work on this. **Developer response:** Hey thanks for the note! Glad you’re enjoying and keep watching the updates for even more POTA goodness! ### 5/5 — Great customer service and app! *2026-08-07* Update: After my review, the developer messaged me and we discussed what was going on, and my issue has since been resolved. I also found another possible small bug, and he’s working to resolve it as well. He is truly dedicated to making this an awesome experience! A+++ I’ve been using iFTx for a while and it’s ehh at best. Bought this app the other day and at first I loved it. The features and UI are awesome and easy to use. Once I started actually using it, I realized I wasn’t hearing much and when I compared the signal reports to iFTx, Greyline was giving a much lower signal report vs the other app. Example, on Greyline, I was seeing one station coming in a -18 to -24, where with the other I was seeing the same station(within a minute or two) at -2 to -4. I would call CQ and no one would respond, but switched to iFTx and I’d get several people calling back. When I checked the map, I was being heard by close to 300 other stations, so I know it’s not an issue with getting out. I hope this can get resolved as I do honestly like the look and feel of this app better than anything on iOS. **Developer response:** Hi there and thanks for the report! I haven’t had anyone else mention this discrepancy between apps. I’ve tried myself on the same device with iFTX and Greyline and never observed it either. I did use the two side by side to refine some timing algorithm issues early in development so I definitely appreciate the science of your approach. Greyline applies the exact same logarithmic equation to compute SNR as any other application, so I need to do some digging to understand what could be a problem here. Nothing else was different between your setups? Please contact me on support@greylineft8.com and we can discuss further. ### 3/5 — Love the features, but decoding seems off. *2026-07-31* I’ve been using iFTx for a while and it’s ehh at best. Bought this app the other day and at first I loved it. The features and UI are awesome and easy to use. Once I started actually using it, I realized I wasn’t hearing much and when I compared the signal reports to iFTx, Greyline was giving a much lower signal report vs the other app. Example, on Greyline, I was seeing one station coming in a -18 to -24, where with the other I was seeing the same station(within a minute or two) at -2 to -4. I would call CQ and no one would respond, but switched to iFTx and I’d get several people calling back. When I checked the map, I was being heard by close to 300 other stations, so I know it’s not an issue with getting out. I hope this can get resolved as I do honestly like the look and feel of this app better than anything on iOS. **Developer response:** Hi there and thanks for the report! I haven’t had anyone else mention this discrepancy between apps. I’ve tried myself on the same device with iFTX and Greyline and never observed it either. I did use the two side by side to refine some timing algorithm issues early in development so I definitely appreciate the science of your approach. Greyline applies the exact same logarithmic equation to compute SNR as any other application, so I need to do some digging to understand what could be a problem here. Nothing else was different between your setups? Please contact me on support@greylineft8.com and we can discuss further. ### 4/5 — I like it but . . . *2026-07-31* Great performance, easy to use. Good graphics. Currently using it with my Yaesu FT-891 and my QRP_Labs QMX+. Please upgrade the app to allow me to use my Yaesu FT-991A. **Developer response:** Hi there! There shouldn’t be any reason you can’t use it with a 991A. Please let me know what problem you’re seeing at support@greylineft8.com and I’m sure we can figure it out. ### 5/5 — Easy FT8 on my IPad!! *2026-07-28* I love doing FT8 remote work on my IPad/iPhone but wasn't too happy with the current App options...but that problem is solved! This app is easy to use, a familiar look, and does a great job of uploading contacts! Another great feature is the help section...which lays out exactly what you need to connect your radio to make it work. Thanks for making this! **Developer response:** So glad you’re enjoying and especially appreciate the feedback on the help section. I put a lot of love into that because I know people often are confused about how this magic actually works with the equipment they already have. POTA on! ### 4/5 — Need tech support suggestions wrong entity comes though *2026-06-26* Developer responded, sent error screen shots! Looking forward to seeing these bugs fixed :)) ———— Hello!! I love the features but the entity comes up wrong on the grid. I am in Iowa and it shows as IL. Also getting IPAD sound disconnection errors **Developer response:** Hi there - I need more information to track this down. Please email at support@greylineft8.com and I’m sure we can figure out the issue. ### 4/5 — Need tech support suggestions wrong entity comes though *2026-06-22* Hello!! I love the features but the entity comes up wrong on the grid. I am in Iowa and it shows as IL. Also getting IPAD sound disconnection errors **Developer response:** Hi there - I need more information to track this down. Please email at support@greylineft8.com and I’m sure we can figure out the issue. ### 4/5 — Works well *2026-06-21* Tried on a pota activation with a FT-891. Worked well once I dialed down the levels on the radio. Would be nice to have input/output level control in app to avoid having to readjust in the radio for each app I use. Also, on my ipad mini, the decodes text font size is a bit small. Ability to increase font size would be a bonus. Will be using it again for sure. I recommend it as a great improvement over iFTx. Thanks! **Developer response:** Thanks for the note! Your input control is the volume buttons on your device - it automatically compensates for incoming volume as well as it can. Glad to hear it worked well for you on the 891! I will consider adjustable font sizes for the future but accounting for individual taste there can be tough with a carefully laid out UI. Did you try portrait mode on the iPad? It should default to a layout with more spacing if you do. Keep activating and 73 😁 ## Frequently asked questions about Greyline FT8 ### What is Greyline FT8? Greyline FT8 is a mobile application designed for amateur radio operators to use FT8 and other digital modes in the field. It aims to provide a comprehensive yet portable solution, integrating features typically found in desktop software. ### How much does Greyline FT8 cost? Greyline FT8 is a paid application, priced at $3.99. This one-time purchase grants access to all its features. ### What devices does Greyline FT8 support? Greyline FT8 is compatible with iOS devices, specifically iPhones and iPads. It is designed for portability and ease of use on these platforms. ### Does Greyline FT8 have ads? No, Greyline FT8 does not contain advertisements. As a paid application, it offers an ad-free experience for its users. ### How often is Greyline FT8 updated? The latest version of Greyline FT8 is 1.0.6, last updated on June 29, 2026. While specific update frequency isn't detailed, the developer is open to feedback, suggesting ongoing support. ### What is the age rating for Greyline FT8? Greyline FT8 has an age rating of 4+. This indicates it is suitable for users of all ages, with no content restrictions. ### How does Greyline FT8 handle logging? Greyline FT8 supports direct-to-QRZ logging and ADI export. It also features intelligent log recovery, allowing users to log contacts even if the final message was missed. ### What are the automated calling modes in Greyline FT8? Greyline FT8 offers 'Gatherer' mode, which calls CQ and responds to the first reply, and 'Hunter' mode, which listens for CQ calls and initiates contact. Standard mode allows for manual control. ## Version history (last 5 releases) ### 1.4.0 — 2026-08-29 “The one that finally integrates World Radio League” **NOTE** - The WRL logging API is a work in progress, and I will continue to improve the app as their API evolves! What we have here now takes full advantage of what the service currently supports. Stay tuned for more features! Be sure to check the release notes for prior versions to see what's new! I update the app regularly in response to feedback like yours. Read them at https://greylineft8.com/changelog.html Remember that Greyline now has a comprehensive user manual at https://greylineft8.com/userguide.html - you’ll also find a button in the Settings view to take you there Shoutouts: KR3BST - Frequent reminders about WRL integration Features: - Greyline now uploads your contacts to World Radio League (WRL), alongside QRZ and Cloudlog - POTA activations get their own logbooks in WRL (named for your callsign, the park and the date) - this can be turned off and your contacts can land in your default logbook instead - Log uploads now have robust retry and error messaging. As the logging system in Greyline gets more complex and supports more endpoints, clear errors are important - Contacts which failed to upload to a configured service show an X in that service's color in the Upload column instead of an empty (or filled) dot, so you can spot them while scrolling. Fixes: - Because we incorporated an X in the upload status column, the service indicator color for QRZ has been changed from green to teal, to avoid confusing “green X’s” That’s it, that’s all, folks! Thanks for bringing me on your activations - now get out there and POTA on. 73! ### 1.3.2 — 2026-08-27 “The one that’s clearer when a POTA ends” Be sure to check the release notes for prior versions to see what's new! I update the app regularly in response to feedback like yours. Read them at https://greylineft8.com/changelog.html Remember that Greyline now has a comprehensive user manual at https://greylineft8.com/userguide.html - you’ll also find a button in the Settings view to take you there Shoutouts: JK3JUK - Pointing out the specific language expected by POTA spots Fixes: - The message sent to the POTA cluster when ending an activation now starts with “QRT”, to comply with their best practices That’s it, that’s all, folks! Thanks for bringing me on your activations - now get out there and POTA on. 73! ### 1.3.1 — 2026-08-23 “The one with some bug fixes” Be sure to check the release notes for prior versions to see what's new! I update the app regularly in response to feedback like yours. Read them at https://greylineft8.com/changelog.html Remember that Greyline now has a comprehensive user manual at https://greylineft8.com/userguide.html - you’ll also find a button in the Settings view to take you there Shoutouts: ON4LDZ - Suggesting visual indicators to tell you why stations were skipped in automatic modes K7DFS - Confirming the very popular FT710 works perfectly with Greyline! Features: - You will now see visual indications on messages that were skipped in automatic modes. WAIT indicates the station was calling you but not responding, which carries a fixed 5 minute cooldown period. SKIPPED indicates a timeout in the Hunter mode, FILTERED indicates that you set a CQ filter which this station violated, and WORKED indicates the station would be a duplicate if you worked them. - When the app flips into an RR73 recovery mode while running Gatherer, the RR73 recovery will show up in the queue so you can decide whether to continue with it, reprioritize it, etc Fixes: - Occasionally, a picosecond-scale rounding issue would accumulate and cause message slots to be shown as 1s earlier than they should be (for example, :59 or :29 instead of :00 or :30). This was a cosmetic issue only and did not affect actual transmission slots, but it looked bad. So it’s fixed now! - Moving from an RR73 recovery to the next queued call in Gatherer mode would sometimes skip a TX slot, wasting 30 valuable seconds. Now it doesn’t - CQ filters were being improperly persisted when a station changed their addendum. Now the filters are applied to the most recent call rather than the first one heard in the session That’s it, that’s all, folks! Thanks for bringing me on your activations - now get out there and POTA on. 73! ### 1.3 — 2026-08-21 “The one that lets you get really odd” Be sure to check the release notes for prior versions to see what's new! I update the app regularly in response to feedback like yours. Read them at https://greylineft8.com/changelog.html Shoutouts: CT7DBJ - Suggesting (among other folks) the ability to pick even vs odd time slots for CQ calls JK1TBL - Pointing out that not all FT4/FT8 takes place on the default frequencies K7DFS - Requesting a tip jar link (aww, thanks) Features: - You can now pick whether to call CQ on even (:00, :30) or odd (:15, :45, and the half-second FT4 variants) time slots. Note that this only applies to CQ calls you initiate, whether from the manual or automatic modes. When you respond to another user’s call, you will always still use the opposite parity you heard them on. - Bands now have a custom frequency option - tap the pencil icon next to the displayed frequency above the waterfall to edit it. While this won’t change anything on your radio, it *will* change what frequency you report to PSKReporter, the POTA cluster, and gets written into your logs. Customized bands will have an orange indicator to remind you they’ve been changed from their default, and there is a new setting in the Settings page which allows you to automatically return edited frequencies to their default on each app launch - Added a new Buy me a Coffee link in the Settings menu. Totally optional, but I’ve been humbled by hearing folks tell me the app is underpriced for the value it provides. If you genuinely feel like you’re getting more than 4 bucks worth of value from it, feel free to send me a note and know that I appreciate you! That’s it, that’s all, folks! Thanks for bringing me on your activations - now get out there and POTA on. 73! ### 1.2 — 2026-08-17 “The one that makes logging even more awesome” Be sure to check the release notes for prior versions to see what's new! I update the app regularly in response to feedback like yours. Read them at https://greylineft8.com/changelog.html Shoutouts: ON4LDZ - Catching some odd behavior in how we assessed duplicate contacts N2YCH - Pointing out an inconsistency in when we consider a contact loggable K4RZO - Mentioning that editing filled text fields was annoying Features: - Introducing a comprehensive User Guide! https://greylineft8.com/userguide.html - you’ll also find a button in the Settings view to take you there - Validated the Yaesu FTdx10 as supported - Gatherer mode now logs upon sending RR73 rather than waiting for the 73, which is consistent with other FT8 applications available - We now flag duplicate log entries during a POTA activation. Logs that are duplicated during normal operation don’t get flagged, but to avoid accidentally submitting logs with dupes, you will see an orange DUP indicator on any duplicate entry in a POTA log - During a POTA activation, there is a new counter for “This Park” in the logging view. It will be red when you have 0-4 contacts, yellow for 5-9, and turn green once you hit the magic 10 mark. Only non duplicate entries count towards this counter, so you know once it’s green you’re good to go - Duplicates are now assessed not just based on callsign, but callsign, band, and mode. This is accounted for in the green rows in the band activity view, as well as both automatic modes. So if you’ve worked me KB0RB on 20m FT8 before, I won’t show up as green on 30m FT4 and the automatic modes will work me again - We now prompt you to resume a POTA activation already in progress if you quit the app and come back in. It happens, and you shouldn’t have to restart the activation if it does - New support for multiple POTA log exports - if you’re doing multiple activations in a day, your logs will be separated properly and you’ll have one touch access to each one at any point - Exporting a POTA log while an activation is still running now prompts you to end the activation in addition to exporting the log - Added an advanced algorithm to determine if we should retry and prioritize finishing out a QSO that got stuck in the RR73 phase. It stinks to get caught in the middle of an almost-done QSO and now Greyline will help, if it can - Tapping into any free text field with text in it auto-selects the text, to make it easier to replace Fixes: - iPhone control sheet now pops up as full height rather than half height. This is just a lot easier to use and feels less cramped - When the retransmission limit expired in Gatherer mode, we sometimes skipped a TX slot before returning to CQ. Now we go back to CQ as soon as possible, to keep that momentum up - The retransmission counter limit (number in parentheses after the “next TX” field) wasn’t being displayed in the collapsed view. Now it is - “Next TX” message was often updated too early, making it look as though you were sending a message that you weren’t yet sending. Now the behavior is much less confusing Whew. That’s a lot of stuff. That’s why this is a 1.2 and not just a patch release. Keep the feedback and suggestions coming! Thanks for bringing me along with you and 73! ## More apps by JONATHAN MARK SCHULMAN - [We Have Wine At Home!](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/we-have-wine-at-home/id6775716751) All apps by JONATHAN MARK SCHULMAN: https://appshunter.io/developer/6773455174 --- *Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-09-01.*