If you’re having difficulties tracking distance with your Runtastic app, it is likely that your device is experiencing GPS issues. Due to the different built-in GPS receivers in each smartphone we can’t always guarantee exact tracking results. However, if your GPS results appear to be inaccurate or you are unable to get a GPS signal, please use our Step by Step Troubleshooting Guide below:
Step 1 Install the latest version of the Runtastic app from the Google Play Store if your app is not yet updated
Step 2 Set the timezone correctly in your device
- Go to your phone’s settings
- Select the "Date and time" item and ensure the "Automatic date and time" and "Automatic time zone" checkboxes are checked. GPS and the Runtastic app rely heavily on an accurate time and time zone.
Step 3 Ensure that GPS is enabled on your device
- Go to your phone’s settings
- Select “Location Settings”
- It may be that your phone has three different modes for location services, “High Accuracy” , “Power Saving,” or “Device Only”. If this is the case, always select “High accuracy” to enable your phone to use the GPS and your phone’s network to retrieve the location points.
Step 4 Give the Runtastic app permission to access your location:
- Go to your phone’s settings
- Select “Apps”
- Find Runtastic in the list and ensure “Location” is enabled
(Note: the location of the app permissions can vary on different Android devices)
Step 5 Deactivate the power saver on your device
Many new smartphones use a “Smart Manager” or similar kind of power saver, which might cause your app to crash, or interfere with the GPS tracking. For detailed information on deactivating the power saver on popular devices, see here.
Step 6 Disable optimization if it is enabled (for devices running Android 6 or higher)
Optimization might block some of the functionality of your app so we recommend all our users to disable it if is enabled. For guidance on how to disable optimization for popular devices, see here.
Step 7 Ensure that the GPS signal indicator is green before you hit start. Try to avoid starting your activity in areas where there may be a weaker GPS signal, i.e. near high buildings, deep forests, or near huge amounts of water like lakes or the ocean.
Still no luck finding a GPS Signal? Check here for further tips.