A new diving app entering the market is aiming to solve one of the biggest frustrations many divers face today, juggling multiple apps, spreadsheets, manufacturer software, wet notes, and disconnected logbooks just to plan, execute, and analyse dives.
KrakenTools, developed by German developer Arndt Kemper, combines dive planning, gas calculations, digital logging, dive computer imports, media tools, and post-dive analysis into a single offline-capable platform designed for recreational divers, technical divers, and instructors.
According to the press release, the app includes more than 22 specialised dive calculators and supports both Open Circuit (OC) and Closed Circuit Rebreather (CCR) diving workflows. One of its standout features is that all core functionality operates locally on the device, without requiring cloud connectivity.
“Many divers currently work with multiple apps, spreadsheets, notes and manufacturer software,” said Kemper. “KrakenTools brings these workflows together in a clear, mobile and offline-capable solution.”
Built Around Dive Planning
At the core of KrakenTools is decompression and dive planning functionality aimed at both sport and technical divers. The app uses the Bühlmann ZH-L16C decompression algorithm and supports no-decompression dives, decompression dives, multilevel profiles, repetitive dives, and CCR planning.
Divers can also configure gas switches, safety settings, and gradient factors within a continuous planning workflow designed to help users compare dive scenarios and assess safety margins before entering the water.
Among the integrated tools are:
- Nitrox, Trimix, and Best Mix calculators
- Minimum gas and Rock Bottom calculations
- Bailout and stage planning
- CNS/OTU exposure tracking
- Equivalent depth calculations including EAD, END, and ENP
- Gradient factor comparison tools
- Gas analyser assistance
Gas Blending and Technical Diving Features
KrakenTools also includes an integrated gas blending module that supports Nitrox and Trimix calculations, including premix workflows commonly used in technical diving.
The app additionally allows divers to calculate gas costs and choose between ideal gas calculations or real gas modelling with Z-factor correction, functionality that will likely appeal to more experienced technical divers and instructors.
Digital Logbook and Dive Computer Integration
Beyond planning, KrakenTools is positioning itself as a centralised digital dive record platform.
The integrated logbook stores dive details including depth, duration, gases used, buddies, conditions, profiles, and media.
One of the more ambitious parts of the project is planned Bluetooth integration with major dive computer brands including Shearwater, Suunto, Garmin, and Mares, allowing divers to wirelessly import dive profiles directly into their records.
The intended workflow is simple: complete the dive, import the profile, analyse the data, attach media, and maintain everything in a single organised archive.
Underwater Photo and Video Tools Included
KrakenTools also moves into underwater imaging territory with built-in media functions.
The app includes UW Color Fix tools for underwater photography and planned video colour correction workflows for underwater footage. Divers can also create digital Wet Notes and automatically generated social media cards from their dives.
While many dive apps focus purely on logging or planning, KrakenTools appears to be targeting a broader ecosystem approach that covers much of the modern diver’s digital workflow.
Offline First Approach
One of the biggest differentiators may be the app’s offline-first design philosophy.
KrakenTools performs calculations, planning, and logbook management locally on the device rather than relying heavily on cloud services. According to the company, this makes it particularly useful for liveaboards, remote dive destinations, and dive boats where internet connectivity is limited or unavailable.
The app is also described as manufacturer-neutral, avoiding dependency on a single hardware ecosystem.
For divers frustrated by fragmented software platforms and closed ecosystems, KrakenTools may represent an interesting alternative if the final product delivers on its ambitious feature set.
More information is available via the official KrakenTools website.
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