Android GPS Only Communicates After Google Map Runs

Question

I looked for the answer but didn't find one - my question(s) follow:

I wrote code that works with the emulator (I send local coords vis DDMS).

The code also works on the device BUT, only after running Google Map. I'm guessing there's something missing in either the manifest or in the code but I don't know what it is and I could use some advice/suggestions.

Here are snippets of the relevant portions of the Code: (I wasn't able to figure out how to properly embed this stuff so it looked intelligent/organized but, I think you get the point...)

homeboy = (LocationManager)getSystemService(Context.LOCATION_SERVICE);    
locationListener = new MyLocationListener();
Location recentLoc = homeboy.getLastKnownLocation(LocationManager.GPS_PROVIDER);

I also have a LocationListener method (shown w/o it's four methods of checking for enabled, changed,...etc)
private class MyLocationListener implements LocationListener {
... etc.

I include this in the manifest file near the top:
<uses-permission 
android:name="android.permission.ACCESS_FINE_LOCATION" />

So, what's missing? Also, how to get location from wifi (as in getting the location by any means available short of saving the last location to a file and retrieving it).

Thanks for any input

Answer 1

So, what's missing?

You are not doing anything to turn on GPS. The GPS radio is off most of the time, because it is a battery hog. Hence, getLastKnownLocation() returns null most of the time. Use requestLocationUpdates() or something to get Android to turn on GPS.

Answer 2

I turn the GPS on via the Settings. Shouldn't that take care of turning it on? I turn it on before running my app (tried waiting a few minutes, too).

I seem not able to respond to your (any) answer without answering my own question....