Internal GPS sensor can't get position (Samsung Galaxy A51)

Help on issues you run into with LapTimer; in case you have a question on how to use LapTimer, use the forum "Using LapTimer" instead
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startklar
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Internal GPS sensor can't get position (Samsung Galaxy A51)

Post by startklar »

Hi there,

as described in the subject, the app can't get positional data from the internal GPS device. It is listed as connected in the sensors list, but still can't show the actual position. There is no other app, which is accessing GPS. Google Maps is working fine. Please check attached screenshots for further understanding.

Android 13, Laptimer Rookie Edition v25.0.2

Thank you & regards, startklar
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Harry
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Re: Internal GPS sensor can't get position (Samsung Galaxy A51)

Post by Harry »

Things to check:
  • Permissions: start the Settings app and make sure you have granted all permissions to LapTimer.
  • Free view to the sky: run your tests outside, not in a building / house.
  • Compatibility: LapTimer can use direct access to your device's GPS NMEA stream, or use the Android location service. The default is NMEA. In case there is an compatibility issue, you can switch to Android's location service in LapTimer ‣ Administration ‣ Settings ‣ Expert Settings ‣ GPS Tweaks / Disable NMEA Access
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startklar
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Re: Internal GPS sensor can't get position (Samsung Galaxy A51)

Post by startklar »

A clear view of the sky was the decisive factor. I first tried it between two buildings, but without success. Now I've tried it on an open field and it works. Thank you very much for your support.
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Harry
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Re: Internal GPS sensor can't get position (Samsung Galaxy A51)

Post by Harry »

No problem, but it emphasizes how important a proper mounting position is. Both Android and iOS provide positions based on triangulation *or* GPS. The former isn‘t usable for track use - which is the reason LapTimer shows „no position“ here. In buildings, you will frequently think you have a proper position where in reality it is just some WiFi / mobile triangulation result.
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startklar
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Re: Internal GPS sensor can't get position (Samsung Galaxy A51)

Post by startklar »

Harry wrote: Sat Oct 11, 2025 5:36 pm No problem, but it emphasizes how important a proper mounting position is. Both Android and iOS provide positions based on triangulation *or* GPS. The former isn‘t usable for track use - which is the reason LapTimer shows „no position“ here. In buildings, you will frequently think you have a proper position where in reality it is just some WiFi / mobile triangulation result.
Yes, or in short: Google Maps is not a useful test.

I drove with the Laptimer at the Motorsport Arena Oschersleben today. Everything worked perfectly. As soon as I get an older GoPro, I'll upgrade to the Petrolhead Edition.

Regards, startklar
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Harry
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Re: Internal GPS sensor can't get position (Samsung Galaxy A51)

Post by Harry »

Exactly, I tend to be complicated. :-D
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