Merge branch 'dev'

README.md

@@ -1,7 +1,64 @@
 ## Meshcore + Fork = Meck 
 This fork was created specifically to focus on enabling BLE companion firmware for the LilyGo T-Deck Pro. Created with the assistance of Claude AI using Meshcore v1.11 code. 
 
-⭐ ***Please note as of 28 Jan 2026, the T-Deck Pro repeater & usb firmware has not been finalised nor confirmed as functioning.*** ⭐
+⭐ ***Please note as of 1 Feb 2026, the T-Deck Pro repeater & usb firmware has not been finalised nor confirmed as functioning.*** ⭐
+
+## T-Deck Pro Keyboard Controls
+
+The T-Deck Pro BLE companion firmware includes full keyboard support for standalone messaging without a phone.
+
+### Navigation (Home Screen)
+
+| Key | Action |
+|-----|--------|
+| W / A | Previous page |
+| S / D | Next page |
+| Enter | Select / Confirm |
+| M | Open channel messages |
+| Q | Back to home screen |
+
+### Channel Message Screen
+
+| Key | Action |
+|-----|--------|
+| W / S | Scroll messages up/down |
+| A / D | Switch between channels |
+| C | Compose new message |
+| Q | Back to home screen |
+
+### Compose Mode
+
+| Key | Action |
+|-----|--------|
+| A / D | Switch destination channel (when message is empty) |
+| Enter | Send message |
+| Backspace | Delete last character |
+| Shift + Backspace | Cancel and exit compose mode |
+
+### Symbol Entry (Sym Key)
+
+Press the **Sym** key then the letter key to enter numbers and symbols:
+
+| Key | Sym+ | | Key | Sym+ | | Key | Sym+ |
+|-----|------|-|-----|------|-|-----|------|
+| Q | # | | A | * | | Z | 7 |
+| W | 1 | | S | 4 | | X | 8 |
+| E | 2 | | D | 5 | | C | 9 |
+| R | 3 | | F | 6 | | V | ? |
+| T | ( | | G | / | | B | ! |
+| Y | ) | | H | : | | N | , |
+| U | _ | | J | ; | | M | . |
+| I | - | | K | ' | | Mic | 0 |
+| O | + | | L | " | | $ | (dedicated) |
+| P | @ | | | | | | |
+
+### Other Keys
+
+| Key | Action |
+|-----|--------|
+| Shift | Uppercase next letter |
+| Alt | Same as Sym (for numbers/symbols) |
+| Space | Space character / Next in navigation |
 
 ## About MeshCore
 
@@ -18,10 +75,10 @@ MeshCore provides the ability to create wireless mesh networks, similar to Mesht
   * Devices can forward messages across multiple nodes, extending range beyond a single radio's reach.
   * Supports up to a configurable number of hops to balance network efficiency and prevent excessive traffic.
   * Nodes use fixed roles where "Companion" nodes are not repeating messages at all to prevent adverse routing paths from being used.
-* Supports LoRa Radios – Works with Heltec, RAK Wireless, and other LoRa-based hardware.
-* Decentralized & Resilient – No central server or internet required; the network is self-healing.
-* Low Power Consumption – Ideal for battery-powered or solar-powered devices.
-* Simple to Deploy – Pre-built example applications make it easy to get started.
+* Supports LoRa Radios — Works with Heltec, RAK Wireless, and other LoRa-based hardware.
+* Decentralized & Resilient — No central server or internet required; the network is self-healing.
+* Low Power Consumption — Ideal for battery-powered or solar-powered devices.
+* Simple to Deploy — Pre-built example applications make it easy to get started.
 
 ## What Can You Use MeshCore For?
 
@@ -47,19 +104,19 @@ For developers;
 
 ## MeshCore Flasher
 
-We have prebuilt firmware ready to flash on supported devices.
+Download a copy of the Meck firmware bin from https://github.com/pelgraine/Meck/releases, then:
 
 - Launch https://flasher.meshcore.co.uk
-- Select a supported device
-- Flash one of the firmware types:
-  - Companion, Repeater or Room Server
+- Select Custom Firmware
+- Select the .bin file you just downloaded, and click Open or press Enter.
+- Click Flash, then select your device in the popup window (eg. USB JTAG/serial debug unit cu.usbmodem101 as an example), then click Connect.
 - Once flashing is complete, you can connect with one of the MeshCore clients below.
 
 ## MeshCore Clients
 
 **Companion Firmware**
 
-The companion firmware can be connected to via BLE, USB or WiFi depending on the firmware type you flashed.
+The companion firmware can be connected to via BLE. USB is planned for a future update.
 
 - Web: https://app.meshcore.nz
 - Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.liamcottle.meshcore.android
@@ -89,14 +146,14 @@ Here are some general principals you should try to adhere to:
 
 There are a number of fairly major features in the pipeline, with no particular time-frames attached yet. In partly chronological order:
 - [X] Companion radio: BLE
+- [X] Text entry for Public channel messages Companion BLE firmware
+- [X] View and compose all channel messages Companion BLE firmware
+- [ ] Standalone DM functionality for Companion BLE firmware
 - [ ] Companion radio: USB
 - [ ] Simple Repeater firmware for the T-Deck Pro
 - [ ] Get pin 45 with the screen backlight functioning for the T-Deck Pro v1.1
 - [ ] Canned messages function for Companion BLE firmware
-- [ ] Text entry for Companion BLE firmware
 
 ## 📞 Get Support
 
-- Join [MeshCore Discord](https://discord.gg/BMwCtwHj5V) to chat with the developers and get help from the community.
-
-
+- Join [MeshCore Discord](https://discord.gg/BMwCtwHj5V) to chat with the developers and get help from the community.

examples/companion_radio/MyMesh.cpp

@@ -541,6 +541,46 @@ void MyMesh::onChannelMessageRecv(const mesh::GroupChannel &channel, mesh::Packe
 #endif
 }
 
+void MyMesh::queueSentChannelMessage(uint8_t channel_idx, uint32_t timestamp, const char* sender, const char* text) {
+  // Format message the same way as onChannelMessageRecv for BLE app sync
+  // This allows sent messages from device keyboard to appear in the app
+  int i = 0;
+  if (app_target_ver >= 3) {
+    out_frame[i++] = RESP_CODE_CHANNEL_MSG_RECV_V3;
+    out_frame[i++] = 0;  // SNR not applicable for sent messages
+    out_frame[i++] = 0;  // reserved1
+    out_frame[i++] = 0;  // reserved2
+  } else {
+    out_frame[i++] = RESP_CODE_CHANNEL_MSG_RECV;
+  }
+
+  out_frame[i++] = channel_idx;
+  out_frame[i++] = 0;  // path_len = 0 indicates local/sent message
+
+  out_frame[i++] = TXT_TYPE_PLAIN;
+  memcpy(&out_frame[i], &timestamp, 4);
+  i += 4;
+  
+  // Format as "sender: text" like the app expects
+  char formatted[MAX_FRAME_SIZE];
+  snprintf(formatted, sizeof(formatted), "%s: %s", sender, text);
+  int tlen = strlen(formatted);
+  if (i + tlen > MAX_FRAME_SIZE) {
+    tlen = MAX_FRAME_SIZE - i;
+  }
+  memcpy(&out_frame[i], formatted, tlen);
+  i += tlen;
+  
+  addToOfflineQueue(out_frame, i);
+
+  // If app is connected, send push notification
+  if (_serial->isConnected()) {
+    uint8_t frame[1];
+    frame[0] = PUSH_CODE_MSG_WAITING;
+    _serial->writeFrame(frame, 1);
+  }
+}
+
 uint8_t MyMesh::onContactRequest(const ContactInfo &contact, uint32_t sender_timestamp, const uint8_t *data,
                                  uint8_t len, uint8_t *reply) {
   if (data[0] == REQ_TYPE_GET_TELEMETRY_DATA) {
@@ -1979,4 +2019,4 @@ bool MyMesh::advert() {
   } else {
     return false;
   }
-}
+}

examples/companion_radio/MyMesh.h

@@ -8,11 +8,11 @@
 #define FIRMWARE_VER_CODE 8
 
 #ifndef FIRMWARE_BUILD_DATE
-#define FIRMWARE_BUILD_DATE "29 Jan 2026"
+#define FIRMWARE_BUILD_DATE "4 Feb 2026"
 #endif
 
 #ifndef FIRMWARE_VERSION
-#define FIRMWARE_VERSION "Meck v0.4"
+#define FIRMWARE_VERSION "Meck v0.6.2"
 #endif
 
 #if defined(NRF52_PLATFORM) || defined(STM32_PLATFORM)
@@ -101,6 +101,9 @@ public:
   void enterCLIRescue();
 
   int  getRecentlyHeard(AdvertPath dest[], int max_num);
+  
+  // Queue a sent channel message for BLE app sync
+  void queueSentChannelMessage(uint8_t channel_idx, uint32_t timestamp, const char* sender, const char* text);
 
 protected:
   float getAirtimeBudgetFactor() const override;
@@ -230,4 +233,4 @@ private:
   AdvertPath advert_paths[ADVERT_PATH_TABLE_SIZE]; // circular table
 };
 
-extern MyMesh the_mesh;
+extern MyMesh the_mesh;

examples/companion_radio/main.cpp

@@ -4,6 +4,26 @@
 #include "variant.h"   // Board-specific defines (HAS_GPS, etc.)
 #include "target.h"    // For sensors, board, etc.
 
+// T-Deck Pro Keyboard support
+#if defined(LilyGo_TDeck_Pro)
+  #include "TCA8418Keyboard.h"
+  TCA8418Keyboard keyboard(I2C_ADDR_KEYBOARD, &Wire);
+  
+  // Compose mode state
+  static bool composeMode = false;
+  static char composeBuffer[138];  // 137 chars max + null terminator
+  static int composePos = 0;
+  static uint8_t composeChannelIdx = 0;  // Which channel to send to
+  static unsigned long lastComposeRefresh = 0;
+  static bool composeNeedsRefresh = false;
+  #define COMPOSE_REFRESH_INTERVAL 600  // ms between e-ink refreshes while typing (refresh takes ~650ms)
+  
+  void initKeyboard();
+  void handleKeyboardInput();
+  void drawComposeScreen();
+  void sendComposedMessage();
+#endif
+
 // Believe it or not, this std C function is busted on some platforms!
 static uint32_t _atoi(const char* sp) {
   uint32_t n = 0;
@@ -303,6 +323,11 @@ void setup() {
   MESH_DEBUG_PRINTLN("setup() - ui_task.begin() done");
 #endif
 
+  // Initialize T-Deck Pro keyboard
+  #if defined(LilyGo_TDeck_Pro)
+    initKeyboard();
+  #endif
+
   // Enable GPS by default on T-Deck Pro
   #if HAS_GPS
     // Set GPS enabled in both sensor manager and node prefs
@@ -319,7 +344,334 @@ void loop() {
   the_mesh.loop();
   sensors.loop();
 #ifdef DISPLAY_CLASS
+  // Skip UITask rendering when in compose mode to prevent flickering
+  #if defined(LilyGo_TDeck_Pro)
+  if (!composeMode) {
+    ui_task.loop();
+  } else {
+    // Handle debounced compose screen refresh
+    if (composeNeedsRefresh && (millis() - lastComposeRefresh) >= COMPOSE_REFRESH_INTERVAL) {
+      drawComposeScreen();
+      lastComposeRefresh = millis();
+      composeNeedsRefresh = false;
+    }
+  }
+  #else
   ui_task.loop();
+  #endif
 #endif
   rtc_clock.tick();
-}
+
+  // Handle T-Deck Pro keyboard input
+  #if defined(LilyGo_TDeck_Pro)
+    handleKeyboardInput();
+  #endif
+}
+
+// ============================================================================
+// T-DECK PRO KEYBOARD FUNCTIONS
+// ============================================================================
+
+#if defined(LilyGo_TDeck_Pro)
+
+void initKeyboard() {
+  // Keyboard uses the same I2C bus as other peripherals (already initialized)
+  if (keyboard.begin()) {
+    MESH_DEBUG_PRINTLN("setup() - Keyboard initialized");
+    composeBuffer[0] = '\0';
+    composePos = 0;
+    composeMode = false;
+    composeNeedsRefresh = false;
+    lastComposeRefresh = 0;
+  } else {
+    MESH_DEBUG_PRINTLN("setup() - Keyboard initialization failed!");
+  }
+}
+
+void handleKeyboardInput() {
+  if (!keyboard.isReady()) return;
+  
+  char key = keyboard.readKey();
+  if (key == 0) return;
+  
+  Serial.printf("handleKeyboardInput: key='%c' (0x%02X) composeMode=%d\n", 
+                key >= 32 ? key : '?', key, composeMode);
+  
+  if (composeMode) {
+    // In compose mode - handle text input
+    if (key == '\r') {
+      // Enter - send the message
+      Serial.println("Compose: Enter pressed, sending...");
+      if (composePos > 0) {
+        sendComposedMessage();
+      }
+      composeMode = false;
+      composeBuffer[0] = '\0';
+      composePos = 0;
+      ui_task.gotoHomeScreen();
+      return;
+    }
+    
+    if (key == '\b') {
+      // Backspace - check if shift was recently pressed for cancel combo
+      if (keyboard.wasShiftRecentlyPressed(500)) {
+        // Shift+Backspace = Cancel (works anytime)
+        Serial.println("Compose: Shift+Backspace, cancelling...");
+        composeMode = false;
+        composeBuffer[0] = '\0';
+        composePos = 0;
+        ui_task.gotoHomeScreen();
+        return;
+      }
+      // Regular backspace - delete last character
+      if (composePos > 0) {
+        composePos--;
+        composeBuffer[composePos] = '\0';
+        Serial.printf("Compose: Backspace, pos now %d\n", composePos);
+        composeNeedsRefresh = true;  // Use debounced refresh
+      }
+      return;
+    }
+    
+    // A/D keys switch channels (only when buffer is empty or as special function)
+    if ((key == 'a' || key == 'A') && composePos == 0) {
+      // Previous channel
+      if (composeChannelIdx > 0) {
+        composeChannelIdx--;
+      } else {
+        // Wrap to last valid channel
+        for (uint8_t i = MAX_GROUP_CHANNELS - 1; i > 0; i--) {
+          ChannelDetails ch;
+          if (the_mesh.getChannel(i, ch) && ch.name[0] != '\0') {
+            composeChannelIdx = i;
+            break;
+          }
+        }
+      }
+      Serial.printf("Compose: Channel switched to %d\n", composeChannelIdx);
+      drawComposeScreen();
+      return;
+    }
+    
+    if ((key == 'd' || key == 'D') && composePos == 0) {
+      // Next channel
+      ChannelDetails ch;
+      uint8_t nextIdx = composeChannelIdx + 1;
+      if (the_mesh.getChannel(nextIdx, ch) && ch.name[0] != '\0') {
+        composeChannelIdx = nextIdx;
+      } else {
+        composeChannelIdx = 0;  // Wrap to first channel
+      }
+      Serial.printf("Compose: Channel switched to %d\n", composeChannelIdx);
+      drawComposeScreen();
+      return;
+    }
+    
+    // Regular character input
+    if (key >= 32 && key < 127 && composePos < 137) {
+      composeBuffer[composePos++] = key;
+      composeBuffer[composePos] = '\0';
+      Serial.printf("Compose: Added '%c', pos now %d\n", key, composePos);
+      composeNeedsRefresh = true;  // Use debounced refresh
+    }
+    return;
+  }
+  
+  // Normal mode - not composing
+  switch (key) {
+    case 'c':
+    case 'C':
+      // Enter compose mode
+      composeMode = true;
+      composeBuffer[0] = '\0';
+      composePos = 0;
+      // If on channel screen, sync compose channel with viewed channel
+      if (ui_task.isOnChannelScreen()) {
+        composeChannelIdx = ui_task.getChannelScreenViewIdx();
+      }
+      Serial.printf("Entering compose mode, channel %d\n", composeChannelIdx);
+      drawComposeScreen();
+      break;
+    
+    case 'm':
+    case 'M':
+      // Go to channel message screen
+      Serial.println("Opening channel messages");
+      ui_task.gotoChannelScreen();
+      break;
+    
+    case 'w':
+    case 'W':
+      // Navigate up/previous (scroll on channel screen)
+      if (ui_task.isOnChannelScreen()) {
+        ui_task.injectKey('w');  // Pass directly for channel switching
+      } else {
+        Serial.println("Nav: Previous");
+        ui_task.injectKey(0xF2);  // KEY_PREV
+      }
+      break;
+    
+    case 's':
+    case 'S':
+      // Navigate down/next (scroll on channel screen)
+      if (ui_task.isOnChannelScreen()) {
+        ui_task.injectKey('s');  // Pass directly for channel switching
+      } else {
+        Serial.println("Nav: Next");
+        ui_task.injectKey(0xF1);  // KEY_NEXT
+      }
+      break;
+      
+    case 'a':
+    case 'A':
+      // Navigate left or switch channel (on channel screen)
+      if (ui_task.isOnChannelScreen()) {
+        ui_task.injectKey('a');  // Pass directly for channel switching
+      } else {
+        Serial.println("Nav: Previous");
+        ui_task.injectKey(0xF2);  // KEY_PREV
+      }
+      break;
+      
+    case 'd':
+    case 'D':
+      // Navigate right or switch channel (on channel screen)
+      if (ui_task.isOnChannelScreen()) {
+        ui_task.injectKey('d');  // Pass directly for channel switching
+      } else {
+        Serial.println("Nav: Next");
+        ui_task.injectKey(0xF1);  // KEY_NEXT
+      }
+      break;
+      
+    case '\r':
+      // Select/Enter
+      Serial.println("Nav: Enter/Select");
+      ui_task.injectKey(13);  // KEY_ENTER
+      break;
+      
+    case 'q':
+    case 'Q':
+    case '\b':
+      // Go back to home screen
+      Serial.println("Nav: Back to home");
+      ui_task.gotoHomeScreen();
+      break;
+      
+    case ' ':
+      // Space - also acts as next/select
+      Serial.println("Nav: Space (Next)");
+      ui_task.injectKey(0xF1);  // KEY_NEXT
+      break;
+      
+    default:
+      Serial.printf("Unhandled key in normal mode: '%c' (0x%02X)\n", key, key);
+      break;
+  }
+}
+
+void drawComposeScreen() {
+  #ifdef DISPLAY_CLASS
+  display.startFrame();
+  display.setTextSize(1);
+  display.setColor(DisplayDriver::GREEN);
+  display.setCursor(0, 0);
+  
+  // Get the channel name for display
+  ChannelDetails channel;
+  char headerBuf[40];
+  if (the_mesh.getChannel(composeChannelIdx, channel)) {
+    snprintf(headerBuf, sizeof(headerBuf), "To: %s", channel.name);
+  } else {
+    snprintf(headerBuf, sizeof(headerBuf), "To: Channel %d", composeChannelIdx);
+  }
+  display.print(headerBuf);
+  
+  display.setColor(DisplayDriver::LIGHT);
+  display.drawRect(0, 11, display.width(), 1);
+  
+  display.setCursor(0, 14);
+  display.setColor(DisplayDriver::LIGHT);
+  
+  // Word wrap the compose buffer - calculate chars per line based on actual font width
+  int x = 0;
+  int y = 14;
+  uint16_t testWidth = display.getTextWidth("MMMMMMMMMM");  // 10 wide chars
+  int charsPerLine = (testWidth > 0) ? (display.width() * 10) / testWidth : 20;
+  if (charsPerLine < 12) charsPerLine = 12;
+  if (charsPerLine > 40) charsPerLine = 40;
+  char charStr[2] = {0, 0};  // Buffer for single character as string
+  
+  for (int i = 0; i < composePos; i++) {
+    charStr[0] = composeBuffer[i];
+    display.print(charStr);
+    x++;
+    if (x >= charsPerLine) {
+      x = 0;
+      y += 11;
+      display.setCursor(0, y);
+    }
+  }
+  
+  // Show cursor
+  display.print("_");
+  
+  // Status bar
+  int statusY = display.height() - 12;
+  display.setColor(DisplayDriver::LIGHT);
+  display.drawRect(0, statusY - 2, display.width(), 1);
+  display.setCursor(0, statusY);
+  display.setColor(DisplayDriver::YELLOW);
+  
+  char status[40];
+  if (composePos == 0) {
+    // Empty buffer - show channel switching hint
+    display.print("A/D:Ch");
+    sprintf(status, "Sh+Del:X");
+    display.setCursor(display.width() - display.getTextWidth(status) - 2, statusY);
+    display.print(status);
+  } else {
+    // Has text - show send/cancel hint
+    sprintf(status, "%d/137 Ent:Send", composePos);
+    display.print(status);
+    sprintf(status, "Sh+Del:X");
+    display.setCursor(display.width() - display.getTextWidth(status) - 2, statusY);
+    display.print(status);
+  }
+  
+  display.endFrame();
+  #endif
+}
+
+void sendComposedMessage() {
+  if (composePos == 0) return;
+  
+  // Get the selected channel
+  ChannelDetails channel;
+  if (the_mesh.getChannel(composeChannelIdx, channel)) {
+    uint32_t timestamp = rtc_clock.getCurrentTime();
+    
+    // Send to channel
+    if (the_mesh.sendGroupMessage(timestamp, channel.channel, 
+                                   the_mesh.getNodePrefs()->node_name, 
+                                   composeBuffer, composePos)) {
+      // Add the sent message to local channel history so we can see what we sent
+      ui_task.addSentChannelMessage(composeChannelIdx, 
+                                     the_mesh.getNodePrefs()->node_name, 
+                                     composeBuffer);
+      
+      // Queue message for BLE app sync (so sent messages appear in companion app)
+      the_mesh.queueSentChannelMessage(composeChannelIdx, timestamp,
+                                        the_mesh.getNodePrefs()->node_name,
+                                        composeBuffer);
+      
+      ui_task.showAlert("Sent!", 1500);
+    } else {
+      ui_task.showAlert("Send failed!", 1500);
+    }
+  } else {
+    ui_task.showAlert("No channel!", 1500);
+  }
+}
+
+#endif // LilyGo_TDeck_Pro

examples/companion_radio/ui-new/ChannelScreen.h

@@ -0,0 +1,292 @@
+#pragma once
+
+#include <helpers/ui/UIScreen.h>
+#include <helpers/ui/DisplayDriver.h>
+#include <helpers/ChannelDetails.h>
+#include <MeshCore.h>
+
+// Maximum messages to store in history
+#define CHANNEL_MSG_HISTORY_SIZE 20
+#define CHANNEL_MSG_TEXT_LEN 160
+
+#ifndef MAX_GROUP_CHANNELS
+  #define MAX_GROUP_CHANNELS 20
+#endif
+
+class UITask;  // Forward declaration
+class MyMesh;  // Forward declaration
+extern MyMesh the_mesh;
+
+class ChannelScreen : public UIScreen {
+public:
+  struct ChannelMessage {
+    uint32_t timestamp;
+    uint8_t path_len;
+    uint8_t channel_idx;  // Which channel this message belongs to
+    char text[CHANNEL_MSG_TEXT_LEN];
+    bool valid;
+  };
+
+private:
+  UITask* _task;
+  mesh::RTCClock* _rtc;
+  
+  ChannelMessage _messages[CHANNEL_MSG_HISTORY_SIZE];
+  int _msgCount;      // Total messages stored
+  int _newestIdx;     // Index of newest message (circular buffer)
+  int _scrollPos;     // Current scroll position (0 = newest)
+  int _msgsPerPage;   // Messages that fit on screen
+  uint8_t _viewChannelIdx;  // Which channel we're currently viewing
+  
+public:
+  ChannelScreen(UITask* task, mesh::RTCClock* rtc) 
+    : _task(task), _rtc(rtc), _msgCount(0), _newestIdx(-1), _scrollPos(0), 
+      _msgsPerPage(3), _viewChannelIdx(0) {
+    // Initialize all messages as invalid
+    for (int i = 0; i < CHANNEL_MSG_HISTORY_SIZE; i++) {
+      _messages[i].valid = false;
+    }
+  }
+
+  // Add a new message to the history
+  void addMessage(uint8_t channel_idx, uint8_t path_len, const char* sender, const char* text) {
+    // Move to next slot in circular buffer
+    _newestIdx = (_newestIdx + 1) % CHANNEL_MSG_HISTORY_SIZE;
+    
+    ChannelMessage* msg = &_messages[_newestIdx];
+    msg->timestamp = _rtc->getCurrentTime();
+    msg->path_len = path_len;
+    msg->channel_idx = channel_idx;
+    msg->valid = true;
+    
+    // The text already contains "Sender: message" format, just store it
+    strncpy(msg->text, text, CHANNEL_MSG_TEXT_LEN - 1);
+    msg->text[CHANNEL_MSG_TEXT_LEN - 1] = '\0';
+    
+    if (_msgCount < CHANNEL_MSG_HISTORY_SIZE) {
+      _msgCount++;
+    }
+    
+    // Reset scroll to show newest message
+    _scrollPos = 0;
+  }
+
+  // Get count of messages for the currently viewed channel
+  int getMessageCountForChannel() const {
+    int count = 0;
+    for (int i = 0; i < CHANNEL_MSG_HISTORY_SIZE; i++) {
+      if (_messages[i].valid && _messages[i].channel_idx == _viewChannelIdx) {
+        count++;
+      }
+    }
+    return count;
+  }
+
+  int getMessageCount() const { return _msgCount; }
+  
+  uint8_t getViewChannelIdx() const { return _viewChannelIdx; }
+  void setViewChannelIdx(uint8_t idx) { _viewChannelIdx = idx; _scrollPos = 0; }
+
+  int render(DisplayDriver& display) override {
+    char tmp[40];
+    
+    // Header - show current channel name
+    display.setCursor(0, 0);
+    display.setTextSize(1);
+    display.setColor(DisplayDriver::GREEN);
+    
+    // Get channel name
+    ChannelDetails channel;
+    if (the_mesh.getChannel(_viewChannelIdx, channel)) {
+      display.print(channel.name);
+    } else {
+      sprintf(tmp, "Channel %d", _viewChannelIdx);
+      display.print(tmp);
+    }
+    
+    // Message count for this channel on right
+    int channelMsgCount = getMessageCountForChannel();
+    sprintf(tmp, "[%d]", channelMsgCount);
+    display.setCursor(display.width() - display.getTextWidth(tmp) - 2, 0);
+    display.print(tmp);
+    
+    // Divider line
+    display.drawRect(0, 11, display.width(), 1);
+    
+    if (channelMsgCount == 0) {
+      display.setCursor(0, 25);
+      display.setColor(DisplayDriver::LIGHT);
+      display.print("No messages yet");
+      display.setCursor(0, 40);
+      display.print("A/D: Switch channel");
+      display.setCursor(0, 52);
+      display.print("C: Compose message");
+    } else {
+      int lineHeight = 10;
+      int headerHeight = 14;
+      int footerHeight = 14;
+      
+      // Calculate chars per line based on actual font width (not assumed 6px)
+      // Measure a test string and scale accordingly
+      uint16_t testWidth = display.getTextWidth("MMMMMMMMMM");  // 10 wide chars
+      int charsPerLine = (testWidth > 0) ? (display.width() * 10) / testWidth : 20;
+      if (charsPerLine < 12) charsPerLine = 12;  // Minimum reasonable
+      if (charsPerLine > 40) charsPerLine = 40;  // Maximum reasonable
+      
+      int y = headerHeight;
+      
+      // Build list of messages for this channel (newest first)
+      int channelMsgs[CHANNEL_MSG_HISTORY_SIZE];
+      int numChannelMsgs = 0;
+      
+      for (int i = 0; i < _msgCount && numChannelMsgs < CHANNEL_MSG_HISTORY_SIZE; i++) {
+        int idx = _newestIdx - i;
+        while (idx < 0) idx += CHANNEL_MSG_HISTORY_SIZE;
+        idx = idx % CHANNEL_MSG_HISTORY_SIZE;
+        
+        if (_messages[idx].valid && _messages[idx].channel_idx == _viewChannelIdx) {
+          channelMsgs[numChannelMsgs++] = idx;
+        }
+      }
+      
+      // Display messages from scroll position
+      int msgsDrawn = 0;
+      for (int i = _scrollPos; i < numChannelMsgs && y < display.height() - footerHeight - lineHeight; i++) {
+        int idx = channelMsgs[i];
+        ChannelMessage* msg = &_messages[idx];
+        
+        // Time indicator with hop count
+        display.setCursor(0, y);
+        display.setColor(DisplayDriver::YELLOW);
+        
+        uint32_t age = _rtc->getCurrentTime() - msg->timestamp;
+        if (age < 60) {
+          sprintf(tmp, "(%d) %ds", msg->path_len == 0xFF ? 0 : msg->path_len, age);
+        } else if (age < 3600) {
+          sprintf(tmp, "(%d) %dm", msg->path_len == 0xFF ? 0 : msg->path_len, age / 60);
+        } else if (age < 86400) {
+          sprintf(tmp, "(%d) %dh", msg->path_len == 0xFF ? 0 : msg->path_len, age / 3600);
+        } else {
+          sprintf(tmp, "(%d) %dd", msg->path_len == 0xFF ? 0 : msg->path_len, age / 86400);
+        }
+        display.print(tmp);
+        y += lineHeight;
+        
+        // Message text with character wrapping (like compose screen - fills full width)
+        display.setColor(DisplayDriver::LIGHT);
+        
+        int textLen = strlen(msg->text);
+        int pos = 0;
+        int linesForThisMsg = 0;
+        int maxLinesPerMsg = 6;  // Allow more lines per message
+        int x = 0;
+        char charStr[2] = {0, 0};
+        
+        display.setCursor(0, y);
+        
+        while (pos < textLen && linesForThisMsg < maxLinesPerMsg && y < display.height() - footerHeight - 2) {
+          charStr[0] = msg->text[pos];
+          display.print(charStr);
+          x++;
+          pos++;
+          
+          if (x >= charsPerLine) {
+            x = 0;
+            linesForThisMsg++;
+            y += lineHeight;
+            if (linesForThisMsg < maxLinesPerMsg && y < display.height() - footerHeight - 2) {
+              display.setCursor(0, y);
+            }
+          }
+        }
+        
+        // If we didn't end on a full line, still count it
+        if (x > 0) {
+          y += lineHeight;
+        }
+        
+        y += 2;
+        msgsDrawn++;
+        _msgsPerPage = msgsDrawn;
+      }
+    }
+    
+    // Footer with controls
+    int footerY = display.height() - 12;
+    display.drawRect(0, footerY - 2, display.width(), 1);
+    display.setCursor(0, footerY);
+    display.setColor(DisplayDriver::YELLOW);
+    
+    // Left side: Q:Back A/D:Ch
+    display.print("Q:Back A/D:Ch");
+    
+    // Right side: C:New
+    const char* rightText = "C:New";
+    display.setCursor(display.width() - display.getTextWidth(rightText) - 2, footerY);
+    display.print(rightText);
+
+#if AUTO_OFF_MILLIS == 0  // e-ink
+    return 5000;
+#else
+    return 1000;
+#endif
+  }
+
+  bool handleInput(char c) override {
+    int channelMsgCount = getMessageCountForChannel();
+    
+    // W or KEY_PREV - scroll up (older messages)
+    if (c == 0xF2 || c == 'w' || c == 'W') {
+      if (_scrollPos + _msgsPerPage < channelMsgCount) {
+        _scrollPos++;
+        return true;
+      }
+    }
+    
+    // S or KEY_NEXT - scroll down (newer messages)
+    if (c == 0xF1 || c == 's' || c == 'S') {
+      if (_scrollPos > 0) {
+        _scrollPos--;
+        return true;
+      }
+    }
+    
+    // A - previous channel
+    if (c == 'a' || c == 'A') {
+      if (_viewChannelIdx > 0) {
+        _viewChannelIdx--;
+      } else {
+        // Wrap to last valid channel
+        for (uint8_t i = MAX_GROUP_CHANNELS - 1; i > 0; i--) {
+          ChannelDetails ch;
+          if (the_mesh.getChannel(i, ch) && ch.name[0] != '\0') {
+            _viewChannelIdx = i;
+            break;
+          }
+        }
+      }
+      _scrollPos = 0;
+      return true;
+    }
+    
+    // D - next channel
+    if (c == 'd' || c == 'D') {
+      ChannelDetails ch;
+      uint8_t nextIdx = _viewChannelIdx + 1;
+      if (the_mesh.getChannel(nextIdx, ch) && ch.name[0] != '\0') {
+        _viewChannelIdx = nextIdx;
+      } else {
+        _viewChannelIdx = 0;
+      }
+      _scrollPos = 0;
+      return true;
+    }
+    
+    return false;
+  }
+  
+  // Reset scroll position to newest
+  void resetScroll() {
+    _scrollPos = 0;
+  }
+};

examples/companion_radio/ui-new/UITask.cpp

@@ -30,6 +30,7 @@
 #endif
 
 #include "icons.h"
+#include "ChannelScreen.h"
 
 class SplashScreen : public UIScreen {
   UITask* _task;
@@ -580,6 +581,7 @@ void UITask::begin(DisplayDriver* display, SensorManager* sensors, NodePrefs* no
   splash = new SplashScreen(this);
   home = new HomeScreen(this, &rtc_clock, sensors, node_prefs);
   msg_preview = new MsgPreviewScreen(this, &rtc_clock);
+  channel_screen = new ChannelScreen(this, &rtc_clock);
   setCurrScreen(splash);
 }
 
@@ -628,8 +630,34 @@ void UITask::msgRead(int msgcount) {
 void UITask::newMsg(uint8_t path_len, const char* from_name, const char* text, int msgcount) {
   _msgcount = msgcount;
 
+  // Add to preview screen (for notifications on non-keyboard devices)
   ((MsgPreviewScreen *) msg_preview)->addPreview(path_len, from_name, text);
+  
+  // Determine channel index by looking up the channel name
+  // For channel messages, from_name is the channel name
+  // For contact messages, from_name is the contact name (channel_idx = 0xFF)
+  uint8_t channel_idx = 0xFF;  // Default: unknown/contact message
+  for (uint8_t i = 0; i < MAX_GROUP_CHANNELS; i++) {
+    ChannelDetails ch;
+    if (the_mesh.getChannel(i, ch) && strcmp(ch.name, from_name) == 0) {
+      channel_idx = i;
+      break;
+    }
+  }
+  
+  // Add to channel history screen with channel index
+  ((ChannelScreen *) channel_screen)->addMessage(channel_idx, path_len, from_name, text);
+  
+#if defined(LilyGo_TDeck_Pro)
+  // T-Deck Pro: Don't interrupt user with popup - just show brief notification
+  // Messages are stored in channel history, accessible via 'M' key
+  char alertBuf[40];
+  snprintf(alertBuf, sizeof(alertBuf), "New: %s", from_name);
+  showAlert(alertBuf, 2000);
+#else
+  // Other devices: Show full preview screen (legacy behavior)
   setCurrScreen(msg_preview);
+#endif
 
   if (_display != NULL) {
     if (!_display->isOn() && !hasConnection()) {
@@ -922,3 +950,38 @@ void UITask::toggleBuzzer() {
     _next_refresh = 0;  // trigger refresh
   #endif
 }
+
+void UITask::injectKey(char c) {
+  if (c != 0 && curr) {
+    // Turn on display if it's off
+    if (_display != NULL && !_display->isOn()) {
+      _display->turnOn();
+    }
+    curr->handleInput(c);
+    _auto_off = millis() + AUTO_OFF_MILLIS;   // extend auto-off timer
+    _next_refresh = 100;  // trigger refresh
+  }
+}
+
+void UITask::gotoChannelScreen() {
+  ((ChannelScreen *) channel_screen)->resetScroll();
+  setCurrScreen(channel_screen);
+  if (_display != NULL && !_display->isOn()) {
+    _display->turnOn();
+  }
+  _auto_off = millis() + AUTO_OFF_MILLIS;
+  _next_refresh = 100;
+}
+
+uint8_t UITask::getChannelScreenViewIdx() const {
+  return ((ChannelScreen *) channel_screen)->getViewChannelIdx();
+}
+
+void UITask::addSentChannelMessage(uint8_t channel_idx, const char* sender, const char* text) {
+  // Format the message as "Sender: message"
+  char formattedMsg[CHANNEL_MSG_TEXT_LEN];
+  snprintf(formattedMsg, sizeof(formattedMsg), "%s: %s", sender, text);
+  
+  // Add to channel history with path_len=0 (local message)
+  ((ChannelScreen *) channel_screen)->addMessage(channel_idx, 0, sender, formattedMsg);
+}

examples/companion_radio/ui-new/UITask.h

@@ -51,6 +51,7 @@ class UITask : public AbstractUITask {
   UIScreen* splash;
   UIScreen* home;
   UIScreen* msg_preview;
+  UIScreen* channel_screen;  // Channel message history screen
   UIScreen* curr;
 
   void userLedHandler();
@@ -73,15 +74,27 @@ public:
   void begin(DisplayDriver* display, SensorManager* sensors, NodePrefs* node_prefs);
 
   void gotoHomeScreen() { setCurrScreen(home); }
+  void gotoChannelScreen();  // Navigate to channel message screen
   void showAlert(const char* text, int duration_millis);
   int  getMsgCount() const { return _msgcount; }
   bool hasDisplay() const { return _display != NULL; }
   bool isButtonPressed() const;
+  bool isOnChannelScreen() const { return curr == channel_screen; }
+  uint8_t getChannelScreenViewIdx() const;
 
   void toggleBuzzer();
   bool getGPSState();
   void toggleGPS();
 
+  // Inject a key press from external source (e.g., keyboard)
+  void injectKey(char c);
+  
+  // Add a sent message to the channel screen history
+  void addSentChannelMessage(uint8_t channel_idx, const char* sender, const char* text);
+  
+  // Get current screen for checking state
+  UIScreen* getCurrentScreen() const { return curr; }
+  UIScreen* getMsgPreviewScreen() const { return msg_preview; }
 
   // from AbstractUITask
   void msgRead(int msgcount) override;
@@ -90,4 +103,4 @@ public:
   void loop() override;
 
   void shutdown(bool restart = false);
-};
+};

variants/lilygo_tdeck_pro/TDeckBoard.cpp

@@ -46,6 +46,14 @@ void TDeckBoard::begin() {
     MESH_DEBUG_PRINTLN("TDeckBoard::begin() - GPS Serial2 initialized at %d baud", GPS_BAUDRATE);
   #endif
 
+  // Disable 4G modem power (only present on 4G version, not audio version)
+  // This turns off the red status LED on the modem module
+  #ifdef MODEM_POWER_EN
+    pinMode(MODEM_POWER_EN, OUTPUT);
+    digitalWrite(MODEM_POWER_EN, LOW);  // Cut power to modem
+    MESH_DEBUG_PRINTLN("TDeckBoard::begin() - 4G modem power disabled");
+  #endif
+
   // Configure user button
   pinMode(PIN_USER_BTN, INPUT);
 

variants/lilygo_tdeck_pro/Tca8418keyboard.h

@@ -0,0 +1,290 @@
+#pragma once
+
+#include <Arduino.h>
+#include <Wire.h>
+
+// TCA8418 Register addresses
+#define TCA8418_REG_CFG         0x01
+#define TCA8418_REG_INT_STAT    0x02
+#define TCA8418_REG_KEY_LCK_EC  0x03
+#define TCA8418_REG_KEY_EVENT_A 0x04
+#define TCA8418_REG_KP_GPIO1    0x1D
+#define TCA8418_REG_KP_GPIO2    0x1E
+#define TCA8418_REG_KP_GPIO3    0x1F
+#define TCA8418_REG_DEBOUNCE    0x29
+#define TCA8418_REG_GPI_EM1     0x20
+#define TCA8418_REG_GPI_EM2     0x21
+#define TCA8418_REG_GPI_EM3     0x22
+
+// Key codes for special keys
+#define KB_KEY_NONE      0
+#define KB_KEY_BACKSPACE '\b'
+#define KB_KEY_ENTER     '\r'
+#define KB_KEY_SPACE     ' '
+
+class TCA8418Keyboard {
+private:
+  uint8_t _addr;
+  TwoWire* _wire;
+  bool _initialized;
+  bool _shiftActive;   // Sticky shift (one-shot)
+  bool _altActive;     // Sticky alt (one-shot)
+  bool _symActive;     // Sticky sym (one-shot)
+  unsigned long _lastShiftTime;  // For Shift+key combos
+
+  uint8_t readReg(uint8_t reg) {
+    _wire->beginTransmission(_addr);
+    _wire->write(reg);
+    _wire->endTransmission();
+    _wire->requestFrom(_addr, (uint8_t)1);
+    return _wire->available() ? _wire->read() : 0;
+  }
+
+  void writeReg(uint8_t reg, uint8_t val) {
+    _wire->beginTransmission(_addr);
+    _wire->write(reg);
+    _wire->write(val);
+    _wire->endTransmission();
+  }
+
+  // Map raw key codes to characters (from working reader firmware)
+  char getKeyChar(uint8_t keyCode) {
+    switch (keyCode) {
+      // Row 1 - QWERTYUIOP
+      case 10: return 'q';   // Q (was 97 on different hardware)
+      case 9:  return 'w';
+      case 8:  return 'e';
+      case 7:  return 'r';
+      case 6:  return 't';
+      case 5:  return 'y';
+      case 4:  return 'u';
+      case 3:  return 'i';
+      case 2:  return 'o';
+      case 1:  return 'p';
+      
+      // Row 2 - ASDFGHJKL + Backspace
+      case 20: return 'a';   // A (was 98 on different hardware)
+      case 19: return 's';
+      case 18: return 'd';
+      case 17: return 'f';
+      case 16: return 'g';
+      case 15: return 'h';
+      case 14: return 'j';
+      case 13: return 'k';
+      case 12: return 'l';
+      case 11: return '\b'; // Backspace
+      
+      // Row 3 - Alt ZXCVBNM Sym Enter
+      case 30: return 0;    // Alt - handled separately
+      case 29: return 'z';
+      case 28: return 'x';
+      case 27: return 'c';
+      case 26: return 'v';
+      case 25: return 'b';
+      case 24: return 'n';
+      case 23: return 'm';
+      case 22: return 0;    // Symbol key - handled separately
+      case 21: return '\r'; // Enter
+      
+      // Row 4 - Shift Mic Space Sym Shift
+      case 35: return 0;    // Left shift - handled separately
+      case 34: return 0;    // Mic
+      case 33: return ' ';  // Space
+      case 32: return 0;    // Sym - handled separately
+      case 31: return 0;    // Right shift - handled separately
+      
+      default: return 0;
+    }
+  }
+
+  // Map key with Alt modifier - same as Sym for this keyboard
+  char getAltChar(uint8_t keyCode) {
+    return getSymChar(keyCode);  // Alt does same as Sym
+  }
+
+  // Map key with Sym modifier - based on actual T-Deck Pro keyboard silk-screen
+  char getSymChar(uint8_t keyCode) {
+    switch (keyCode) {
+      // Row 1: Q W E R T Y U I O P
+      case 10: return '#';  // Q -> #
+      case 9:  return '1';  // W -> 1
+      case 8:  return '2';  // E -> 2
+      case 7:  return '3';  // R -> 3
+      case 6:  return '(';  // T -> (
+      case 5:  return ')';  // Y -> )
+      case 4:  return '_';  // U -> _
+      case 3:  return '-';  // I -> -
+      case 2:  return '+';  // O -> +
+      case 1:  return '@';  // P -> @
+      
+      // Row 2: A S D F G H J K L
+      case 20: return '*';  // A -> *
+      case 19: return '4';  // S -> 4
+      case 18: return '5';  // D -> 5
+      case 17: return '6';  // F -> 6
+      case 16: return '/';  // G -> /
+      case 15: return ':';  // H -> :
+      case 14: return ';';  // J -> ;
+      case 13: return '\''; // K -> '
+      case 12: return '"';  // L -> "
+      
+      // Row 3: Z X C V B N M
+      case 29: return '7';  // Z -> 7
+      case 28: return '8';  // X -> 8
+      case 27: return '9';  // C -> 9
+      case 26: return '?';  // V -> ?
+      case 25: return '!';  // B -> !
+      case 24: return ',';  // N -> ,
+      case 23: return '.';  // M -> .
+      
+      // Row 4: Mic key -> 0
+      case 34: return '0';  // Mic -> 0
+      
+      default: return 0;
+    }
+  }
+
+public:
+  TCA8418Keyboard(uint8_t addr = 0x34, TwoWire* wire = &Wire) 
+    : _addr(addr), _wire(wire), _initialized(false), 
+      _shiftActive(false), _altActive(false), _symActive(false), _lastShiftTime(0) {}
+
+  bool begin() {
+    // Check if device responds
+    _wire->beginTransmission(_addr);
+    if (_wire->endTransmission() != 0) {
+      Serial.println("TCA8418: Device not found");
+      return false;
+    }
+
+    // Configure keyboard matrix (8 rows x 10 cols)
+    writeReg(TCA8418_REG_KP_GPIO1, 0xFF);  // Rows 0-7 as keypad
+    writeReg(TCA8418_REG_KP_GPIO2, 0xFF);  // Cols 0-7 as keypad
+    writeReg(TCA8418_REG_KP_GPIO3, 0x03);  // Cols 8-9 as keypad
+
+    // Enable keypad with FIFO overflow detection
+    writeReg(TCA8418_REG_CFG, 0x11);  // KE_IEN + INT_CFG
+
+    // Set debounce
+    writeReg(TCA8418_REG_DEBOUNCE, 0x03);
+
+    // Clear any pending interrupts
+    writeReg(TCA8418_REG_INT_STAT, 0x1F);
+
+    // Flush the FIFO
+    while (readReg(TCA8418_REG_KEY_LCK_EC) & 0x0F) {
+      readReg(TCA8418_REG_KEY_EVENT_A);
+    }
+
+    _initialized = true;
+    Serial.println("TCA8418: Keyboard initialized OK");
+    return true;
+  }
+
+  // Read a key press - returns character or 0 if no key
+  char readKey() {
+    if (!_initialized) return 0;
+
+    // Check for key events in FIFO
+    uint8_t keyCount = readReg(TCA8418_REG_KEY_LCK_EC) & 0x0F;
+    if (keyCount == 0) return 0;
+
+    // Read key event from FIFO
+    uint8_t keyEvent = readReg(TCA8418_REG_KEY_EVENT_A);
+
+    // Bit 7: 1 = press, 0 = release
+    bool pressed = (keyEvent & 0x80) != 0;
+    uint8_t keyCode = keyEvent & 0x7F;
+
+    // Clear interrupt
+    writeReg(TCA8418_REG_INT_STAT, 0x1F);
+
+    Serial.printf("KB raw: event=0x%02X code=%d pressed=%d count=%d\n", 
+                  keyEvent, keyCode, pressed, keyCount);
+
+    // Only act on key press, not release
+    if (!pressed || keyCode == 0) {
+      return 0;
+    }
+
+    // Handle modifier keys - set sticky state and return 0
+    if (keyCode == 35 || keyCode == 31) {  // Shift keys
+      _shiftActive = true;
+      _lastShiftTime = millis();
+      Serial.println("KB: Shift activated");
+      return 0;
+    }
+    if (keyCode == 30) {  // Alt key
+      _altActive = true;
+      Serial.println("KB: Alt activated");
+      return 0;
+    }
+    if (keyCode == 32) {  // Sym key (bottom row)
+      _symActive = true;
+      Serial.println("KB: Sym activated");
+      return 0;
+    }
+    
+    // Handle dedicated $ key (key code 22, next to M)
+    if (keyCode == 22) {
+      Serial.println("KB: $ key pressed");
+      return '$';
+    }
+    
+    // Handle Mic key - produces 0 with Sym, otherwise ignore
+    if (keyCode == 34) {
+      if (_symActive) {
+        _symActive = false;
+        Serial.println("KB: Sym+Mic -> '0'");
+        return '0';
+      }
+      return 0;  // Ignore mic without Sym
+    }
+
+    // Get the character
+    char c = 0;
+    
+    if (_altActive) {
+      c = getAltChar(keyCode);
+      _altActive = false;  // Reset sticky alt
+      if (c != 0) {
+        Serial.printf("KB: Alt+key -> '%c'\n", c);
+        return c;
+      }
+    }
+    
+    if (_symActive) {
+      c = getSymChar(keyCode);
+      _symActive = false;  // Reset sticky sym
+      if (c != 0) {
+        Serial.printf("KB: Sym+key -> '%c'\n", c);
+        return c;
+      }
+    }
+    
+    c = getKeyChar(keyCode);
+    
+    if (c != 0 && _shiftActive) {
+      // Apply shift - uppercase letters
+      if (c >= 'a' && c <= 'z') {
+        c = c - 'a' + 'A';
+      }
+      _shiftActive = false;  // Reset sticky shift
+    }
+    
+    if (c != 0) {
+      Serial.printf("KB: code %d -> '%c' (0x%02X)\n", keyCode, c >= 32 ? c : '?', c);
+    } else {
+      Serial.printf("KB: code %d -> UNMAPPED\n", keyCode);
+    }
+    
+    return c;
+  }
+
+  bool isReady() const { return _initialized; }
+  
+  // Check if shift was pressed within the last N milliseconds
+  bool wasShiftRecentlyPressed(unsigned long withinMs = 500) const {
+    return (millis() - _lastShiftTime) < withinMs;
+  }
+};