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Svalboard QMK — Launch

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@github-actions github-actions released this 07 Oct 04:37
· 2 commits to svalboard since this release
vLaunch
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Learn about vigilant mode.

Svalboard QMK is the new firmware for Svalboard, configured with Keybard in Chrome or Edge. Compared with Svalboard's Vial firmware (svalboard/vial-qmk v2025-11-01):

What's new

  • Keybard replaces Vial as the configurator. It offers visual layer editing, behavior editors, pointing controls, layer colors, Matrix Tester, printable layers and a Trainer.
  • More room: 256 slots each for tap dances, combos, key overrides, macros and alternate-repeat keys (Vial allowed 30–50), plus a larger macro buffer.
  • Leader sequences: trigger any action with a sequence of up to five keys.
  • Better tap-hold: QMK Chordal Hold is on by default, replacing Achordion, and Flow Tap is available. Timing settings take effect as soon as you save them.
  • Your setup stays put: compatible firmware updates keep your layout, the board stores its settings in two verified copies, and Keybard backs up each connected board automatically.
  • More pointing control: Sniper toggles, Boost keys, automouse per pointer with threshold and decay, and natural scrolling.
  • Board identity: each board keeps a stable serial and a name you choose.
  • Idle power saving: lower scan rates, sensor rest modes and processor sleep while you're not typing.
  • A two-way protocol for companion apps: desktop tools can read your layout and follow your active layers. The Keybard Host overlay is available as a Windows preview.

Moving from Vial

  1. Before flashing, export a .vil backup with Vial. Svalboard QMK does not read the settings Vial stored on the board, so the board starts on the default layout.
  2. Flash the image that matches each half's sensor family and side. Double-tap reset to get the RPI-RP2 drive, then copy the .uf2 onto it.
  3. Open Keybard, connect, and import the .vil. Your layout, macros, tap dances, combos, key overrides and QMK settings come across, including Svalboard's custom keys.
  4. Set DPI, scrolling, automouse and layer colors again. These aren't stored in .vil files.
  5. Check your modifier and timing preferences, then export a fresh .svil backup.

Firmware files

Use the sval images for your hardware (base board, PMW3389 trackball, TrackPoint or Azoteq), or the blank images for an empty base-board layout.

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