FAQ & Help
Where can I get the For The Record (FTR) Player, and how do I install it?
As a Progressive Web App, the FTR Player runs in any modern browser. The first time you visit the Player, some browsers will prompt you to install the app as an icon on your device’s home screen so it can be used like any other native app, including full-screen visualisation and off-line capabilities. Currently, recommended browsers are Chrome on Android and Safari on iOS, both providing a nearly identical experience. Firefox or Edge should also operate without issues.
The app has not downloaded to my home screen, how do I install this?
First, On iOS on Safari, hit the sharing/options button as highlighted here:
Then scroll down to the ‘Add to Home screen’ button, like this:
Do I need an internet connection to experience Bogart’s Ghost?
An internet connection is required to fetch a project’s data from the For The Record (FTR) servers before it can be experienced by a user. However, once a project is loaded in the FTR Player, it is possible to download all the project’s data — including audio files and relevant map tiles — to the browser’s Cache Storage so it can later be experienced without an internet connection. Even if a cellular internet connection is available, you might still want to pre-download your project while on WIFI to avoid data charges and reduce loading times.
How do I share a saved mixtape?
Use the “Share” button located in ‘My Mixtapes’ in the FTR Player. This method generates a unique URL for the project that can be sent via text, WhatsApp, email or social media.
When I open Bogart’s Ghost, my current location is not being displayed on the map. What can I do?
When you first open the FTR Player app you should see a pop-up window asking for permission to use your precise location. Once you accept and a GPS fix is obtained, your location should be displayed on the map as a small blue circle. If that is not the case, please make sure GPS and Location Services are enabled and your browser has permission to use this service. On some operating systems (e.g. iOS) permissions are now granted on a “per app” basis instead of being a global setting. Please check our GPS Troubleshooting Guide below for further information.
If you are not on location, you will receive a notice to activate remote listening. You can move the humanoid icon around the map to experience the project remotely.
GPS TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
iOS Location Settings
Step 1. Check if Location Services are on, and Safari (or any other browser you are using) is allowed to use them (Go to Settings > Privacy > Location Services). Make sure "Precise Location" is also enabled.
Step 2. Verify that Safari grants location access on all websites or at least asks for permission (Go to Settings > Safari > Location). Select either 'Ask' or 'Allow'.
Step 3. If all the above fails, you can also try resetting 'Location and Privacy' in the General menu section (Go to Settings > General > Reset)
Android Location Settings
If your device uses stock Android please visit Android Help Centre for detailed instructions on how to manage Location Accuracy.
The example below shows how to set up location services on an Android/MIUI device (e.g. Xiaomi):
Step 1. Go to "Settings > Location" and enable "Location Access".
Step 2. If you don't want your device to use Wi-Fi or mobile networks to provide additional location data please disable "Google Location Accuracy" so only GPS is used, although we generallly recommend to leave this option on.
Step 3. Finally, check that your browser app (e.g. Chrome) can access your device's location (Location > App permission > Chrome > "Allow only while using the app").
GPS Accuracy
Please note that GPS accuracy on mobile devices can be affected by several factors. One of the primary factors affecting GPS accuracy is the quality of the GPS antenna and receiver as these components can vary greatly between different mobile devices. Devices with high-quality components can provide more accurate GPS data than devices with lower quality components.
Another factor affecting GPS accuracy is the presence of obstacles such as buildings, trees, or mountains. These obstacles can block or reflect GPS signals, leading to inaccuracies in location data. Similarly, indoor environments, such as buildings and underground tunnels, can also affect accuracy, as GPS signals are weakened by walls and ceilings.
The number of GPS satellites in view is also a factor that affects GPS accuracy. Mobile devices typically receive signals from multiple GPS satellites to determine their location accurately. If there are fewer GPS satellites in view, the accuracy of location data may be reduced.
Environmental factors such as weather conditions (e.g. clouds) must also be taken into account. Clouds can block GPS signals, making it difficult for devices to receive accurate location information. Similarly, solar flares or other space weather events can also affect GPS accuracy.
Questions? Email us at support@fortherecord.quest