Auto-Archiving
The Archive function creates complete backup packages of your assignments that you can keep forever. It takes everything about your mission - GPS tracks, photos, weather data, and notes - and puts it all in one organized package that works on any device.
Setting Up Archives
Automatic Archiving
Want archives created automatically when you finish recording? Here's how to set it up:
Go to Settings and turn on "Auto-Archive Assignments"
Choose your minimum battery level (we suggest at least 30%)
Make sure iCloud Drive is enabled on your device
Once set up, archives will be created automatically when you stop recording, as long as your battery is above your chosen level and you have internet access.
Manual Archiving
You can always create archives manually:
From Assignment Details: Tap "Create Archive Now"
From Assignment List: Long-press any assignment and select "Re-Archive Assignment"
Manual archiving works even with low battery or no internet connection.
What's In Your Archive?
Each archive is a ZIP file containing:
Interactive HTML Report
Open in any web browser to see:
Interactive map with your tracks on satellite imagery
Weather charts showing conditions during your mission
Complete assignment details and timing
Photo gallery with all mission images
Timestamped mission log
GPS Track Files
Professional GPS data in multiple formats:
GPX files - separate files for handler, K9, and subject tracks
GeoJSON file - all tracks combined for mapping software
Works with Garmin, Google Earth, and other GPS applications
Complete Backup Data
Everything needed to restore to Lokate:
All track points with exact timestamps
Original photos at full resolution
Assignment settings and mission log
Where Are Archives Stored?
Archives are saved to iCloud Drive in the Lokate > Archives folder. This means you can:
Access them from any of your devices
Share them through the Files app
Download them to your computer
Keep them forever, even after deleting assignments from Lokate
Archives are named clearly: 2024-03-15-Search_Mission_Pine_Ridge.zip
Managing Your Archives
Checking Status
When auto-archive is enabled, you'll see colored dots in your Assignment List:
Green = Successfully archived
Orange = Currently being archived
Red = Not archived or failed
Tap any assignment to see detailed archive information.
Storage Space
Good news about storage:
Archives live in iCloud, not on your phone
You can have more archives in the cloud than your phone has space for
Archives don't count against your Lokate app storage
View storage statistics in Settings
Automatic Updates
Archives update automatically when you:
Add new GPS tracks
Import GPX files or map data
Edit assignment details
Take additional photos
Using Your Archives
Viewing on Mobile
Find your archive in Files app > iCloud Drive > Lokate > Archives
Tap the ZIP file and open the HTML report
View in Safari or any web browser
All maps and charts work offline once opened
Viewing on Computer
Download from iCloud Drive
Unzip and open the HTML file
Works in any modern web browser
Sharing
For reports: Email the complete ZIP file
For analysis: Import GPX files into mapping software
For team sharing: Share individual track files
Troubleshooting
If Archiving Fails
Check these common issues:
iCloud Drive is enabled in Settings > [Your Name] > iCloud > iCloud Drive
You're signed into iCloud
You have internet connection
Battery level is above your minimum setting
Use "Create Archive Now" to bypass automatic conditions, or check Settings > Archives for error details.
If You Don't See Archives
Check Files app > iCloud Drive > Lokate > Archives folder
Wait a few minutes for iCloud sync
Try creating a manual archive to test the system
Important: iCloud Drive Setup
Your users must have iCloud Drive enabled for archives to work. Tell them to check:
Settings > [Apple ID] > iCloud > iCloud Drive - must be ON
Also verify: Settings > [Apple ID] > iCloud > Apps Using iCloud Drive > Lokate - must be ON
The Archive function ensures your search and rescue work is preserved professionally and permanently, giving you confidence that your mission data will always be available when you need it.