How Tracking Works
SailTies uses the device's GPS to track your vessel's position. It does this by using the device's location services. The GPS only needs visibility of the sky to work, you do not need an internet connection.
Symptoms of Tracking Issues
- 'Poor GPS Signal' error message on the 'Record' tab.
- Tracking stops after a short period of time.
- Tracking stops when you lock your phone or switch to another app.
- Your track seems to only record a few points, cutting through land.
Android Common Causes and Solutions
1. Battery Optimization Killing the Recording App
Some Android devices have aggressive power-saving features can suspend or kill background apps when the screen is locked.
- Go to Settings → Apps
- Find the SailTies app
- Tap Battery → Select "Unrestricted"
- Also check Settings → Battery and device care → Battery → Background usage limits
- Disable "Put unused apps to sleep"
- Add the SailTies app to the "Never sleeping apps" list
2. Permission Settings Limiting Background Activity
Apps need permission to continue running in the background, especially when using location services.
- Go to Settings → Apps → SailTies
- Tap Permissions → Make sure Location is allowed
- For Android 12+ apps, check “Allow while using the app” may not be enough. Try “Allow all the time” if available for Location.
3. GPS Warning & Locking Impact
If the app flashes “Poor GPS Signal”, this might indicate the app is trying to maintain GPS lock in the background and failing due to Doze mode or location restrictions when screen is locked.
- Enable Location Accuracy:
- Settings → Location → Improve accuracy → Enable Wi-Fi scanning and Bluetooth scanning
- In Settings → Location → Tap the SailTies app and make sure “Allow all the time” is selected
4. App-Specific Background Recording Limitations
Some apps are not coded to continue recording when the phone is locked unless explicitly configured.
- Check the app's settings for “Record in background” or “Prevent screen lock” options
5. Device Security / Screen Lock Settings
On some Android builds, screen lock can trigger privacy protections that
- Go to Settings → Biometrics and security → Privacy → Disable or review any features that restrict app usage when locked (like “Mic access when locked”)
- Check Digital Wellbeing or Focus mode which may be limiting background use
iOS Common Causes and Solutions
1. Location Services Disabled for SailTies
- Go to Settings → SailTies → Make sure “Always” is selected for 'Location'
2. Battery Optimization Killing the Recording App
Some iOS devices have aggressive power-saving features can suspend or kill background apps when the screen is locked.
- Go to Settings → Battery → Background App Refresh → Enable for SailTies