Submitting routes in Pokémon GO can be a fun way to contribute to your community and help other players explore new areas. However, encountering an "unknown error" during this process can be frustrating. This comprehensive guide will delve into the common causes of this error and provide practical solutions to get you back on track with route creation.
What Causes the "Unknown Error" During Pokémon GO Route Submission?
The infamous "unknown error" message in Pokémon GO route submission is notoriously vague. Unfortunately, Niantic doesn't provide specific error codes, making troubleshooting more challenging. However, several underlying issues often contribute to this problem. These include:
- Poor internet connection: A weak or unstable internet connection is a frequent culprit. The route submission process requires a stable connection to upload data successfully.
- Server issues: Pokémon GO servers occasionally experience outages or performance problems. These server-side issues can prevent successful route submissions.
- GPS inaccuracies: Incorrect or fluctuating GPS data can interfere with the route's accuracy and prevent submission.
- Route data problems: Issues with the route itself, such as overlapping waypoints, incomplete loops, or excessive length, can lead to errors.
- App glitches: Sometimes, bugs or glitches within the Pokémon GO app itself can hinder functionality.
- Device limitations: Older devices or those with limited resources might struggle to handle the data processing required for route submission.
How to Fix the "Unknown Error" When Submitting Pokémon GO Routes
Let's address these potential problems with actionable steps:
1. Check Your Internet Connection
This is the first and most crucial step. Ensure you have a strong, stable internet connection—preferably Wi-Fi. Try these steps:
- Restart your router and phone: A simple reboot often resolves temporary network issues.
- Check your data usage: Ensure you have sufficient data or a strong Wi-Fi signal.
- Switch networks: Try connecting to a different Wi-Fi network or using mobile data if possible.
2. Verify Your GPS Signal
Accurate GPS data is crucial for route mapping. Try these solutions:
- Enable location services: Make sure location services are enabled for Pokémon GO and have the necessary permissions.
- Check GPS accuracy: Go to your phone's location settings and check for any accuracy issues. A weak GPS signal can cause problems.
- Move to an open area: Try submitting your route from an area with a clear view of the sky for better GPS reception.
3. Review Your Route Data
A poorly constructed route is a common cause of errors. Carefully review these aspects:
- Waypoint placement: Ensure waypoints are correctly placed and spaced, avoiding overlaps or unusual clustering.
- Route length: Extremely long routes may exceed the system's limitations. Consider breaking down long routes into smaller, manageable segments.
- Route completion: Make sure the route forms a closed loop. Incomplete loops often cause submission errors.
- Photo accuracy: Ensure any uploaded photos are clear, accurately represent the location, and are correctly assigned to their waypoints.
4. Troubleshoot the Pokémon GO App
App-related problems can sometimes be the culprit:
- Force close the app: Completely close and reopen the Pokémon GO app.
- Clear app cache and data (Android): Clearing cached data can often resolve minor app glitches.
- Reinstall the app: As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall the Pokémon GO app.
- Update the app: Make sure you're running the latest version of the Pokémon GO app.
5. Check Pokémon GO Server Status
Server-side issues are outside your control, but you can check the status:
- Check social media: Look for reports from other players about server issues on Pokémon GO's social media pages or community forums.
- Wait and retry: If server issues are confirmed, wait for the servers to be back online and try submitting your route again.
6. Consider Device Limitations
Older devices with less processing power might struggle:
- Check device specifications: Ensure your device meets the minimum requirements for Pokémon GO.
- Close unnecessary apps: Close other running apps to free up resources.
7. Contact Niantic Support
If you've tried all the above steps and still encounter the error, contact Niantic support for assistance. They might be able to investigate the issue from their end.
By systematically addressing these points, you'll significantly increase your chances of successfully submitting your Pokémon GO routes and contributing to the vibrant community of explorers. Remember, patience and persistence are key.
