Support
Solar Spotter is designed to just work — but if you need a hand, you're in the right place.
How does Solar Spotter work?
Solar Spotter uses your phone's GPS and compass to calculate the sun's exact position in real time. It then shows you the optimal direction and tilt angle to position your solar panels for maximum power output — no internet required.
Do I need mobile signal to use the app?
No. Core features like the solar compass, sun position tracking, and panel angle calculations all work completely offline using GPS and on-device math. Weather data and forecasts require a connection, but the app gracefully handles offline mode.
What devices are supported?
Solar Spotter is available on iOS and Android. On iPhone, it requires iOS 16 or later and works on all models with a compass sensor (iPhone 6s and newer). On Android, it requires Android 7.0 (Nougat) or later with a compass/magnetometer sensor. AR features require ARKit support on iPhone (SE 2nd gen and newer).
Solar Spotter requests only the permissions it needs to function. Here's what each one does and why:
Location (While Using App)
Required to calculate the sun's position at your exact coordinates. Used for solar azimuth/altitude calculations and weather data. Your location is processed on-device and never stored on our servers.
Motion & Compass
Powers the real-time solar compass. The app reads your device heading to show which direction to point your panels relative to the sun's current position.
Camera (Optional — Pro)
Only used for AR Panel Alignment mode. The camera feed is processed entirely on-device to overlay tilt guides on your panels. No images are captured or stored.
What's included in Pro?
Pro unlocks AR Panel Alignment, multiple panel and battery profiles, smart weather forecasts, planned charge windows, and battery charge modelling. It's a one-time purchase — no subscription, no recurring fees.
How do I restore my purchase on a new device?
Go to Settings in the app and tap "Restore Purchases". On iPhone, this uses your Apple ID. On Android, this uses your Google Play account. No receipt or code needed — just make sure you're signed into the same account you used to purchase.
I purchased Pro but it's not showing. What do I do?
First, try "Restore Purchases" in Settings. If that doesn't work, make sure you're signed into the same Apple ID or Google Play account you used to purchase. If you're still having trouble, contact us below and we'll sort it out.
Can I transfer my purchase between iPhone and Android?
Unfortunately, purchases made through the App Store and Google Play are managed by Apple and Google respectively, and cannot be transferred between platforms. If you switch platforms, you would need to purchase Pro again on the new platform.
The compass seems inaccurate or jittery
Try calibrating your device compass by moving your phone in a figure-8 pattern. Also ensure you're not near strong magnetic sources (speakers, magnets, some car mounts). The app will prompt you to calibrate if readings seem off.
Weather data isn't loading
Weather requires an internet connection. If you're in an area with intermittent signal, the app will use cached data when available. Pull down to refresh when you regain connectivity.
The sun position doesn't seem right
Make sure Location Services are enabled for Solar Spotter. On iPhone: Settings → Privacy → Location Services. On Android: Settings → Apps → Solar Spotter → Permissions → Location. The calculations are highly accurate but depend on a good GPS fix — give the app a moment to lock your position, especially indoors.
We're a small team and we read every message. Drop us a line and we'll get back to you as quickly as we can.
We typically respond within 24–48 hours.