Galaxy Nexus Android 4.1, JellyBean Update Brings GPS Issues

Galaxy Nexus users who have downloaded the Android 4.1, JellyBean update to their devices are currently experiencing issues with its GPS.

Some Nexus owners are reporting that they cannot connect to GPS even with several satellites in view. This bug leaves users unable to track their own location with the smartphone.

Galaxy Nexus users can check to see if their GPS has been affected by opening up an app that constantly tracks where they are such as Google Maps and then check the notification shade for a GPS message. If it says "Searching for GPS," and they do not see a flashing icon, then they are not getting a GPS lock and there device has been affected by the bug.

They can also test to see if the bug is present by downloading the GPS Test app and see if they have satellites within view.

Android Central posted a simple fix for the problem. Users can go to the Settings option, choose Location services, uncheck and re-check "Google's location service," and the problem should be corrected, according to the site.

"We've confirmed that this remedies the situation on our own phones, and we've heard that it's worked for others, too," said Alex Dobie of Android Central. "It looks like this is just a weird server-side glitch, and clearing and re-enabling Google location services resets things on the phone's side."

The Android 4.1, JellyBean update began rolling out for the Galaxy Nexus earlier this month and is available OTA for the HSPA+ models of the smartphone. Owners of the device should have received a notification to update their software within the past few weeks.

The Galaxy Nexus was one of the first devices announced to be receiving the upgrade alongside the Nexus S and Motorola XOOM Wi-Fi tablet.