4.1 jelly bean - Fixing GPS lock that takes too long without installing a custom ROM

My phone (Huawei Y300) takes a little under 10 minutes to get a GPS lock. This has been happening both in new locations as well as in and around my home (where it's on frequently).

What could be the problem that is causing this?

Are there any possible workarounds for this (and I don't mean custom ROMs)?

Answer

Install GPS Status & Toolbox. Then go to the app's settings > gps sensors > auto-download AGPS data, and set it to whatever you like. It also has a Pro key, which unlocks other features.

The main goal for the application is to assist you and all the other applications on your device to get a GPS lock as fast as possible. It is much better to know what is happening inside your phone than staring cluelessly on a blinking notificaion icon and hoping that it will stop blinking sooner or later. (Some people just simply enjoy watching all the raw data ;)

Steps to follow if you have a non-locking GPS, from their FAQ:

• Menu / Tools / manage aGPS state.


• Select 'Reset' to clear the internal state of the GPS.


• Select 'Download' to re-download the assistance data. You will need an active internet connection at this step.


• Close the GPS Status application for 10 seconds.


• Go outside and find a spot where large part of the sky is visible.


• Make sure you have the 'Keep the screen on' settings turned on (in Menu / Settings / Display & Tools'.


• Let the program run and try to acquire your GPS position for at least 15 minutes.

NOTES:

• If the above steps do not resolve the GPS issue then you most likely have a hardware problem with the phone.


• Certain phone cases block the GPS signal (remove the phone from it, if you are not sure.)


• Certain windshields may block the GPS signal inside cars (those that have metallic coating to keep the heat out.)


• Certain phones (usually CDMA) turn off the GPS chip if you put the phone into flight mode.


• If you travel a long distance without turning on the GPS (i.e. flight) you can expect much longer fix times at your destination initially.


• Obviously you cannot expect the GPS to work in your basement! (yes I'm serious)

See if that improves the GPS lock.