Meshtastic has published v2.8.1.8e6a88d as an alpha firmware build following the revoked 2.8.0 releases. This is still marked prerelease upstream, but it is notable for operators because the release notes call out preset, signing, MQTT, and telemetry behavior that can affect live meshes.

Published: 2026-10-01T17:19:05Z
Release: Meshtastic Firmware 2.8.1.8e6a88d Alpha
GitHub release: v2.8.1.8e6a88d

Notable changes

  • New US nodes now default to LongTurbo instead of LongFast during first-time region selection; LongTurbo and LongFast cannot hear each other.
  • The release notes state that 2.8.0 was revoked because of a packet-signing problem, and 2.8.1 signatures are not compatible with the revoked 2.8.0 firmware.
  • Operators upgrading from 2.7.x should read the full upstream notes before changing fixed or gateway nodes, especially where MQTT, remote administration, or mixed firmware fleets are in use.

Oklahoma operator cautions

  • Oklahoma meshes that standardized on LongFast should verify the modem preset after flashing, especially on new nodes or freshly erased devices.
  • Do not mix revoked 2.8.0 firmware into an operational mesh; move any test nodes to 2.8.1 or back to the current trusted 2.7.x build.
  • Treat this as prerelease firmware: test on spare hardware before touching rooftop, gateway, solar, or unattended infrastructure nodes.

Official downloads

Use the official Meshtastic flasher or the release assets above, and keep a backup of node configuration before flashing.