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Why Tracking Gets Lost & How to Prevent It

Learn why your device loses tracking during a scan, what causes the scan to stop, and tips to keep your scans running smoothly.

Written by Aline Mezzabarba

📱 This article applies to Android devices. The CubiCasa app uses ARCore technology to track your phone’s position while scanning.

Why Does the Scan Stop?

When the app loses tracking position for too long, it displays the message “We are having trouble locating the device’s position” and stops the scan. The scan file resets automatically because without accurate positioning data, crucial details — like an entire room — could be missing from your final floor plan.

Common Causes of Tracking Loss

ARCore relies on visual reference points from your camera to track position. The following conditions make this difficult:

  • Featureless surfaces: Evenly colored walls, blank ceilings, or plain carpets give the camera fewer reference points to track.

  • Excessive motion or sudden movements: Moving too quickly or making sharp turns.

  • Sudden changes in camera exposure: Abruptly transitioning into bright sunlight or a very bright room.

  • Dark spaces: Low lighting reduces the camera’s ability to detect reference points.

Tips to Prevent Tracking Loss

Step back near plain walls

If scanning a blank wall or featureless carpet, step back slightly so the camera can also capture surrounding details like doorways, trim, or furniture.

React to onscreen warnings

If you see “Please move back a few steps…”, pause immediately and take a step back. This gives the camera a chance to re-orient before tracking is completely lost.

Keep motion steady and lighting bright

Turn on lights in dim areas before starting. Walk at a calm, deliberate pace and avoid sharp turns or sudden movements.

⚠️ Note: Scans cannot be resumed or merged once the app crashes. Starting fresh with good lighting and steady movement gives you the best chance of a successful scan.

Further Troubleshooting

For a full list of scan-related error messages and their descriptions, see: Mobile App Warnings and Error Messages Troubleshooting Guide.

Using an iOS device? See Tracking lost and relocation for iOS-specific recovery steps, including the built-in Relocate feature.

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