Nanoleaf Read Write Operation Failed: How to Fix [2023]

I had recently paired my Nanoleaf Lines with my Apple Homekit ecosystem, only for the app to give me a weird error message stating: Read/Write operation failed.

Although such error messages are common in the world of electronics, what's weird is that the Nanoleaf app still identifies its connection with the Nanoleaf Lines by flashing lights.

So I figured I should get to the bottom of this and curate a troubleshooting article for all Nanoleaf users who are facing this issue when paired with a HomeKit ecosystem.

To fix Nanoleaf Read Write operation failed error, ensure that all Apple Home Hubs and the Nanoleaf devices are connected to the same WiFi network. If possible, disconnect any Apple TVs as Home Hubs and check WiFi isolation settings.

Switch the Nanoleaf controller to other panels, power cycle both the Nanoleaf controller as well as the internet router, and reinstall the Nanoleaf app. If the problem persists, contact Nanoleaf or Apple Support.

Make Sure Nanoleaf Lights and Apple Home Hubs Are Connected to the Same Network

Similar to the Nanoleaf Controller malfunction issue, The Read/Write operation failed error message is a widespread issue that has come to the attention of Nanoleaf,

Fortunately, they have released a statement regarding the same.

According to Nanoleaf's findings, the error message occurs when the Nanoleaf devices and the Apple Home Hub are connected to different networks.

Nanoleaf recommends you switch all your Apple Home and Nanoleaf devices to the same internet connection to bypass this issue.

Most homes utilize a single internet router for their needs, so the issue most probably is being connected to different WiFi bands.

Nanoleaf devices only connect to a 2.4 GHz WiFi band, so ensure that even the Apple HomeKit devices use the same 2.4 GHz band.

Apple utilizes a Home Hub to control all HomeKit accessories, including the Nanoleaf devices.

Apple sets up devices such as HomePod, HomePod Mini, Apple TV, and even iPads as Home Hubs automatically.

So if you are using the above-mentioned products, make sure that they are connected to the same WiFi as the Nanoleaf devices.

If you are using an ethernet connection for your Apple TV, make sure that it is from the same router that is pushing out the WiFi for your Nanoleaf devices.

Disconnect Apple TV From the Homekit System

Disconnect Apple TV From the Homekit System

Apple TV is notorious amongst Nanoleaf users to cause the Read/Write operations error message to pop up on the Nanoleaf app.

For some reason, the reports of this specific error message are more common for folks that have an Apple TV included in their HomeKit lineup.

Although the reason for this is unclear at this point, removing Apple TV as a Home Hub seems to solve the issue for plenty of users.

Here is how you can disable the Home Hub setup on Apple TVs:

  1. Open the Apple TV homepage.
  2. Select Settings.
  3. Select AirPlay and HomeKit.
  4. Select Home Hub.
  5. Select My Home.
  6. Select Disabled.

Check WiFi Isolation Settings

WiFi isolation is a niche setting that, if enabled, can cause connected devices to not access other connected devices, and thus break communication.

This can cause issues with the Apple Home Hubs being not able to communicate with the Nanoleaf devices, thus causing an error similar to the Read/Write operations error.

The feature basically isolates all connected devices from each other.

This is a privacy feature that many users, especially businesses running a public WiFi network utilize so as to prevent any privacy and security breaches.

This feature is not found on all routers and is usually disabled by default.

But if you had previously toggled the feature on, or if it came turned on by default for some reason, you might need to turn it off manually.

To turn off the WiFi isolation settings on your internet router, follow the steps below:

  • From a browser on a device connected to your WiFi, visit the router's gateway by searching for the router's IP, which you can do by searching the following: 192.168.1.1
  • Enter the router credentials in the login page that pops up. Your router credentials are not your WiFi credentials and are usually found on the body of the router.
  • Navigate to the advanced wireless settings.
  • Search for an option termed AP/Client Isolation.
  • Disable the feature if it has been enabled.

If your router credentials are not to be found anywhere on the body of the router or its packaging box, you can check out RouterPasswords to get your default credentials by the model of the router.

Switch the Nanoleaf Controller to Another Panel

Switch the Nanoleaf Controller to Another Panel

The Nanoleaf controller is the main hub of sorts that enables control over the Nanoleaf lights by receiving commands from the Nanoleaf app.

Therefore, it is a primary component in the synchronization of the Nanoleaf lights with a HomeKit ecosystem as well.

If your Nanoleaf controller is connected to a Nanoleaf light that is a bit far from the internet router or is facing obstructions regarding connectivity, it can be a potential candidate for the error message.

Ensure that the Nanoleaf controller is connected to a Nanoleaf panel which is itself placed in a position with great WiFi coverage, as well as in reach with other Nanoleaf lights.

Power Cycle the Nanoleaf Controller

Power cycling is a potent method that helps eliminate bugs that occur when powering the Nanoleaf controller.

Power cycling can be a very effective method in regaining seamless operations for any electronic device, let alone for Nanoleaf controllers.

In fact, it is one of the most popular methods for fixing common Nanoleaf issues such as Nanoleaf not turning on, and frequent disconnections.

A full power cycle is completed when the device in hand is properly discharged of all charges and then freshly pumped with new charges.

This allows for depleting any unwarranted misbehaving charges that might be causing interference with the operations.

To perform a power cycle on your Nanoleaf controller, follow the steps given below:

  • Unplug the Nanoleaf controller from its power source.
Unplug the Nanoleaf controller from its power source.
  • Let the Nanoleaf controller sit idle for about a minute in its powered-off state.
  • Plug the Nanoleaf controller into its power source.
Plug the Nanoleaf controller into its power source.
  • Let the Nanoleaf controller sit idle for about a minute in its powered-on state.

Power Cycle the Internet Router

Power Cycle the Internet Router

It can be incredibly beneficial to perform a power cycle on your internet router as well.

Internet routers are devices that are usually plugged in 24x7, and the chances for misbehaving charges to exist are higher in such cases

It also helps refresh your internet connection, ensuring that all connected devices get a solid WiFi signal.

Power cycling the router has been an effective method in solving connection issues such as Nanoleaf accessories not being detected or the infamous accessory already added message.

To power cycle your internet router, follow the steps below:

  • Unplug the internet router from its power source.
  • Let the internet router sit idle for about a minute in its powered-off state.
  • Press the buttons on the internet router to ensure that all charges get depleted.
  • Plug the internet router back into its power source.
  • Let the internet router sit idle for about a minute in its powered-on state.

It is recommended to perform power cycles multiple times in order to garner the best results.

Reinstall the Nanoleaf App

Reinstalling the Nanoleaf app can help in getting rid of multiple avenues of software-related errors in a single step.

A reinstall will basically delete all files including cache from your smartphone or tablet, and install the latest version of the app.

Doing so may also come in handy for issues such as Nanoleaf not connecting and Nanoleaf lights not responding.

The latest version of the app will make sure that you are on the latest patches available for the Nanoleaf app that Nanoleaf themselves have pushed out.

Here is how you can follow on with the reinstall process properly:

  • Uninstall the Nanoleaf app from your device. In case your phone asks, make sure to uncheck the option to keep app data.
  • Visit the application store (Google Play Store or Apple App Store) of your device, depending on the operating system it runs.
  • On the search field on top, search for the Nanoleaf app and tap on the most relevant result
  • Tap on Install to begin the installation process.

Make sure to always use trusted application stores, such as Google Play Store and Apple App Store for installing any application.

Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

If you have further queries regarding Nanoleaf and its troubles with the Apple HomeKit ecosystem, contact Nanoleaf support.

I hope my article on how you can fix your Nanoleaf app showing a read/write error message when used in conjunction with Apple HomeKit has been a helpful read and has aided you with the same.

Have a good day!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the lifespan of a Nanoleaf panel?

Nanoleaf panels are rated to last about 25,000 hours, which equates to about 11 years of usage with the lights on for 14 hours a day.

Are Nanoleaf panels weather resistant?

Nanoleaf panels do not have any IP rating and therefore are not water or weather resistant.

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About Doug Stevenson

Hey! I'm Doug, My passion for tech started by fixing phones and computers for my friends and family.

I started Blinqblinq to give reliable tech advice to anyone who needs it, for free! If you have questions on anything tech-related, feel free to contact me.

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Doug Stevenson

Hey! I'm Doug, My passion for tech started by fixing phones and computers for my friends and family.

I started Blinqblinq to give reliable tech advice to anyone who needs it, for free! If you have questions on anything tech-related, feel free to contact me.

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