Frequently Asked Questions
Note: Your iPhone needs to be switched on and "awake" during tracking.
Why did you move to OpenStreetMaps? How can I revert back to a version before 1.85?
Google requested me to remove their Maps from Trails. Instead Trails now uses OpenStreetMaps (the wikipedia of maps) which offers a lot of additional information beyond road maps, such as hiking/biking trails, ski lifts and ATMs.
Unfortunately there is no automated "downgrade" mechanism. However, if you have a backup of your applications folder, you can delete the app from your phone, copy the backup file back into that folder on your computer, and resync your iPhone. This however will lose your data.
Can I listen to music and accept calls while tracking?
Of course you can. Music will continue to play while your iPhone tracks your ... way. Simply select your playlist in the iPod section before starting trails. Accepting a call will pause your track, you can resume at any time.
How can I improve the battery life while tracking?
As Trails does not require your internet connection (unless you want to view maps), you can switch off 3G and WiFi to reduce battery usage. Also you might want to reduce the screen brightness to a minimum while the iPhone is tracking in your pocket.
Can I view the map on Google Earth/Maps?
Yes you can! Simply export your track by clicking on "Send GPX" in the track view. You can open the attachment that you receive in your email inbox directly in Google Earth. No need to convert the file into KML!
What application do you recommend to link your photos to the GPX file?
I am using HoudahGeo (25 EUR or 13 EUR for students - no id required), but other free applications such as GPSPhotoLinker supporting GPX files work just as well. For Windows Geosetter works well.