GPS problems

[kj11]

So it looks like I'm having trouble with my GPS... I have it set to device sensors only (GPS only) mode and it can't seem to find the location. The icon continuously blinks in the status bar, saying that it's finding location, but it doesn't ever lock on. When using the maps app if I try to get directions it won't load them, only giving me a message that it's waiting for location. I've tried battery pulls, turning the GPS off and back on, but those haven't worked.

Also, maybe related or not, Google play services seems to enjoy using the GPS this morning.... Google location reporting has anyways been turned off... Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[dancing-bass]

I have location set to high-accuracy. It uses your general location (from cell towers) to tell GPS approximately where to find you, and from there GPS will have an easier time locking on to your exact location. Otherwise it has to scan the entire globe for your signal every time a GPS location is called for by your device. I haven't experimented but I think this is also more efficient on the battery as well.

I've used a couple different GPS test apps and if I'm outside I generally have location lock within a few seconds.

 

[kj11]

I guess I figured high accuracy would equal higher battery drain, but your comment makes a lot of sense, I'll switch it for the day and see how the battery likes it. Thanks!

 

[kj11]

So the big question is why is Google play services, all of a sudden, dominating my GPS??

 

[dancing-bass]

Go into settings, and into your apps. Go to Play Services and tap force stop. Clear cache too, then reboot.

Not sure what causes it but I've had Play Services do that on all 4 of my android devices at least a few times. Something causes it to hang in a high use state. Force stop/clear cache/reboot seems to settle things down again.

(devices were a Galaxy Nexus, Nexus 7 (2012), Galaxy S4, and my current LG G3).