AirGap is a self-custody cryptocurrency wallet solution developed by the Swiss company Papers, designed to provide maximum security through air-gapped offline key storage. The platform uses a two-device approach: the AirGap Vault on a dedicated offline device for secure key storage, and the AirGap Wallet on an everyday phone for transaction management.
Key Features
- Air-gapped offline key storage on a dedicated device
- QR-code-based transaction signing (no cables, no network connection)
- Supports Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cosmos, Polkadot, Tezos, ICP, Optimism, Kusama, and more
- MetaMask integration for offline signing
- Fully open source (GitHub)
- Social recovery for seed phrases
- BIP39 passphrase and BIP85 child entropy support
- Coin flip and dice roll entropy collection
- SegWit support for Bitcoin
- Staking for Tezos, Cosmos, Polkadot, and Kusama (up to 7.2% APR)
- Isolated Modules API for extending blockchain support
- AirGap Knox for system-level connectivity lockdown
- Recovery plates for engraving seed phrases on steel
How It Works
AirGap uses a two-device security model. The AirGap Vault app is installed on a dedicated smartphone that is completely offline (air-gapped) with no network connection — this device stores private keys in a secure enclave. The AirGap Wallet app is installed on the user's everyday phone for transaction preparation and broadcasting. To sign a transaction, the Wallet generates a QR code, which is scanned by the offline Vault. The Vault signs the transaction with the stored private key and generates a signed QR code, which is then scanned back by the Wallet and broadcast to the network. This air-gapped approach ensures private keys never touch an internet-connected device.
Best Suited For
Security-conscious crypto users who want maximum protection for their private keys through air-gapped offline storage, particularly those holding significant crypto assets who prioritize self-custody and security over convenience.
