How do I configure VIP callers?

In Locale X, VIP callers are configured inside the Volume setting. You can set the volume to allow “priority” calls and messages to come through, then set the list of priority contacts in Android settings.

(If you previously used Locale 6.4.0, the “Caller” condition has been replaced with this new approach).

Why is Locale's location circle larger than Google Maps?

Google's circle is only 65% confident. Locale requires greater than 99% confidence to work reliably, which means a larger circle.

Why does my phone vibrate when situations change?

This vibration is not coming from Locale. Some Android devices provide haptic feedback when the volume is changed (or when do not disturb mode is turned off).

To disable this, go into the Android settings and look to disable the haptic feedback. This is usually under the Sound settings, hidden in the Advanced section although it can be in different places on different Android models.

Does Locale drain the battery?

Locale is highly optimized and does not drain the battery. In order to function, Locale does need to be running all the time. However, Locale spends most of that time sleeping.

Unlike other contextual apps, Locale does not wake up at regular intervals. Instead, it uses patented AI power management to predict when something will change so that it can dynamically adjust throughout the day.

Some Android devices have built-in battery usage reports that say Locale is "running all the time." These do not accurately reflect how efficient Locale is. The device manufacturers like to use scare mongering tactics to convince you to uninstall apps.

How we test battery usage: We install Locale on 10 different Android models (e.g. Samsung, Huawei, Pixel, OnePlus, LG, etc) and set up a variety of situations using all of Locale’s built-in condition and setting types. We also specifically set up 5 different 100-meter Locations around Cambridge and Boston for common scenarios, like home, work, movie theater, and class. We then move the devices around throughout the day to trigger situation changes. Under this test, Locale uses about 2% of the battery. Note that we don't turn on the screen or otherwise use the phone. If you were actually checking your phone throughout the day, Locale's relative battery usage would be effectively 0%.

Why is my volume wrong when I arrive at a location?

This may occur if you drive and have Location-based situations configured to adjust volume. When Bluetooth connects or disconnects, Android will reset the volume. This can conflict with Locale.

To prevent this conflict, consider creating a Driving situation with a "Volume, Ringer and Notifications" and a "Volume, Media" setting. After creating the Driving situation, go to the situation list and move it to be higher priority than your location situations.

When you arrive, the location situation will become active but the settings will be suppressed by the Driving situation based on priority. When Driving ends as you turn off the car, Locale is smart enough to wait a few seconds for Android's adjustments to happen before firing the volume settings in the location-based situation.

Why is my Calendar condition not correctly detected?

Calendar events have some subtle behavior. Go into the Calendar app and check these properties of the event:

• Is the calendar event marked "free" or "busy?" Locale only detects events marked as busy, like when you’re actually in a meeting.

• Was the calendar event created by you or was it an invitation from someone else? Locale only detects events where you've confirmed attendance. Tentative or unconfirmed events are ignored.

• Is the calendar event an all day event? Locale by default ignores all day events.

How do I enable dark mode?

Dark mode requires Android 10 or later. Android 9 has settings for a "dark theme" (only affects the status bar) and a hidden "night mode" (affects all apps) which are confusing. On Android 9, there is an easter egg to enable a hidden developer option as explained on the second half of this article.

Why doesn't Locale detect driving with my FM adapter or after market car system?

Locale detects Driving based on a Bluetooth connection to a car or a connection to Android Auto. FM adapters and after market car systems don't identify themselves as cars, so Locale is not able to detect them. (They usually identify themselves as a generic Bluetooth speaker).