Welcome to your essential guide for using the OwnTracks application on Android! This blog will walk you through the features, installation process, and some handy troubleshooting tips.
What is OwnTracks?
OwnTracks is an open-source app that allows you to keep track of your location, while respecting your privacy. It’s available in two flavors:
- gms: This version is linked to Google Play Services and offers enhanced functionality using Google Maps.
- oss: The un-Googled version that works offline and uses OpenStreetMap as its mapping service.
Installation Guide
To get started with OwnTracks, follow these simple steps:
- For the gms version, download it directly from the Google Play Store.
- For the oss version, you can find it on F-Droid.
- Once downloaded, follow the on-screen instructions to install the app on your device.
Understanding Build Flavours
Think of the two build flavors of OwnTracks like different paths leading to the same destination. The gms version is akin to taking a well-trodden highway with luxury amenities provided by Google, while the oss route represents a scenic, yet simpler, back road that avoids Google’s infrastructure. Both will get you to the destination—tracking your location—just with different opportunities along the way!
Signing Keys
Signing keys are like seals of authenticity. Here’s how they work:
- Google Play provides builds signed with their App signing key.
- Github releases utilize their own unique signing key.
- Droid builds have their own signing keys to ensure security.
Contributing to OwnTracks
If you’re interested in contributing to OwnTracks, we encourage you to read the CONTRIBUTING.md file for building the project locally. Additionally, if you notice any translation discrepancies, help is welcome on POEditor.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you encounter any problems while using OwnTracks, here are a few troubleshooting ideas:
- Ensure that your device’s location settings are turned on.
- Check if you have the required permissions granted to the application.
- If the app crashes, try reinstalling it or clearing the cache.
- For ongoing issues, consult the booklet provided by OwnTracks for in-depth assistance.
For more insights, updates, or to collaborate on AI development projects, stay connected with fxis.ai.
Conclusion
At fxis.ai, we believe that such advancements are crucial for the future of AI, as they enable more comprehensive and effective solutions. Our team is continually exploring new methodologies to push the envelope in artificial intelligence, ensuring that our clients benefit from the latest technological innovations. Enjoy your location tracking journey with OwnTracks!