Emlid GPS receivers such as Reach RS2, RS2+, RS3, Reach RX, and Reach M series do not use traditional road navigation maps. Instead, map information is managed through Emlid Flow and Emlid Flow 360, where users can add satellite imagery, WMS layers, CAD drawings, GIS files, and survey data for field mapping.
This guide explains how to download and update Emlid map data for your surveying and GNSS projects.
Why Download Emlid Map Updates?
Updating map data helps improve:
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Satellite imagery visibility
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Survey project reference information
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GIS layer accuracy
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CAD drawing availability
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Field mapping workflow
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Project visualization
Emlid Flow supports map layers such as satellite imagery and WMS layers that can be added to survey projects.
Before Downloading Emlid Maps
Make sure you have:
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Emlid Reach receiver
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Emlid Flow app installed
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Emlid account
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Internet connection
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Emlid Flow 360 access (for advanced map layers)
Step 1: Update Emlid Flow App
Before downloading map data:
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Open Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
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Search for Emlid Flow.
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Install the latest version.
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Open the application.
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Sign in with your Emlid account.
Keeping Emlid Flow updated ensures access to the latest map features.
Step 2: Open Your Emlid Project
Follow these steps:
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Launch Emlid Flow.
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Open your survey project.
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Go to the map view.
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Open the Map Layers option.
Emlid Flow projects can display different map types and added layers for survey work.
Step 3: Enable Satellite Map View
To use updated satellite imagery:
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Open the project map.
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Tap Map Layers.
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Select the satellite map option.
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Allow the imagery to load.
Satellite maps are available directly in Emlid Flow and Emlid Flow 360.
Step 4: Download or Add Map Layers Through Emlid Flow 360
For additional mapping data:
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Open Emlid Flow 360 in a browser.
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Sign in with your Emlid account.
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Select your project.
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Open Map Layers.
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Choose Add Map Layer.
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Select the required layer.
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Save the project.
Emlid Flow 360 allows users to add WMS/WMTS layers such as topographic maps, orthomosaics, and satellite imagery.
Step 5: Add Custom Map Data
You can add project files such as:
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DXF drawings
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SHP files
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CSV data
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KML files
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WMS layers
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Surface models
Steps:
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Open your project.
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Select import options.
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Upload your mapping file.
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Adjust layer visibility.
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Save changes.
Emlid Flow supports various surveying and GIS data formats for field workflows.
Step 6: Sync Maps With Emlid Flow App
After adding map updates:
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Connect your phone/tablet to the internet.
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Open Emlid Flow.
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Sign in with the same Emlid account.
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Open the updated project.
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Wait for map layers to sync.
Projects with added layers from Emlid Flow 360 can be accessed in Emlid Flow using the same account.
Common Emlid Map Update Problems
Emlid Map Not Loading
Possible causes:
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No internet connection
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Outdated app
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Project sync issue
Solutions:
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Check internet connection.
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Update Emlid Flow.
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Restart the app.
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Reload the project.
Emlid Satellite Map Not Showing
Possible causes:
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Satellite layer disabled
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App version outdated
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Cache issue
Solutions:
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Update Emlid Flow.
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Enable satellite map view.
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Refresh the project.
Satellite maps can be accessed from the map options inside Emlid Flow and Emlid Flow 360.
Emlid Map Layers Not Appearing
Possible causes:
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Wrong Emlid account
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Layer not added correctly
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Sync problem
Solutions:
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Use the same Emlid account on both platforms.
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Verify the layer was added to the project.
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Refresh synchronization.
Emlid Maps Not Syncing Offline
Possible causes:
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No recent synchronization
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Internet unavailable
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Project not updated
Solutions:
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Connect to the internet before fieldwork.
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Open the project while online.
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Confirm layers are visible.
Tips for Successful Emlid Map Updates
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Keep Emlid Flow updated.
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Sync projects before field surveys.
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Check map layers before going offline.
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Backup important survey files.
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Verify coordinate systems.
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Use reliable internet when adding new layers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Emlid GPS have built-in navigation maps?
No. Emlid Reach receivers are GNSS positioning devices. Mapping information is handled through Emlid Flow, Emlid Flow 360, and connected GIS workflows.
How do I update satellite maps in Emlid Flow?
Open your project, select Map Layers, and enable the satellite map option.
Can I add custom maps to Emlid GPS?
Yes. You can add WMS layers, CAD drawings, GIS files, and other mapping data through Emlid Flow workflows.
Do map updates improve GPS accuracy?
Map updates improve visualization and project information. GNSS accuracy mainly depends on the receiver, antenna setup, satellite conditions, and correction services.
Conclusion
To download Emlid map updates, use Emlid Flow and Emlid Flow 360 to refresh satellite imagery, add WMS layers, and import GIS or CAD project data. Emlid receivers rely on connected mapping software rather than built-in navigation maps.
Keeping your map layers and projects updated helps ensure better field visualization and efficient GNSS surveying workflows.