Q: Emlid Flow App: Surveying Getting Started (2026)

Quick Answer

Emlid Flow is a free surveying app that works with Emlid Reach receivers to collect points, stake out coordinates, and measure distances and areas. It runs on Android and iOS, connects to your receiver via Bluetooth, and supports RTK corrections for centimetre-level accuracy in the field.

Downloading and Installing

Emlid Flow is available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store. Search for "Emlid Flow" and install it. There is also a paid version called Emlid Flow Survey which adds features like CAD file import/export, coordinate system customisation, and advanced stakeout functions. For basic point collection and simple surveys, the free version covers most needs.

Connecting Your Reach Receiver

Before using Flow, your Emlid Reach receiver should be set up and achieving an RTK fix. If you have not done this yet, our Emlid Reach base and rover setup guide covers the process. Once your receiver has a fix, open Emlid Flow and tap the connect icon. Select your receiver from the Bluetooth device list. The app will connect and display your current position along with the fix status and horizontal accuracy.

Key Features

Collecting Survey Points

To collect a point, walk to the location with your receiver mounted on a survey pole with smartphone mount. Hold the pole level using the bubble on the pole or the tilt sensor in supported receivers. In Flow, tap the point collection button. You can set averaging: longer averaging gives more accurate results but takes more time. For most survey work, a 5-second average provides centimetre accuracy with an RTK fix. Name your point and add a code or description before saving.

For the best results, use a receiver with tilt compensation like the Reach RS4 Pro, which lets you collect points without the pole being perfectly vertical. This speeds up field work significantly, especially on uneven ground.

Measuring Areas and Distances

Emlid Flow can measure areas and distances directly. For area measurement, walk the perimeter of the area you want to measure, tapping "add point" at each corner. Flow calculates the enclosed area as you go. This is useful for measuring plot sizes, building footprints, and field boundaries. Distance measurement works similarly: tap two or more points and Flow shows the distance between them.

Stakeout

Stakeout mode guides you to a known coordinate. Enter the target point (either manually or by importing coordinates), and Flow displays directional arrows and distance to the target. The paid Flow Survey version includes audio guidance and a compass-style navigation screen. This is essential for setting out construction points, marking boundaries, or placing ground control points for drone mapping.

Exporting Your Data

Emlid Flow supports CSV, DXF, and SHP export formats. CSV is the simplest option and works with most surveying software. DXF files open directly in CAD programs. In the free version, export to cloud services or email. Flow Survey adds direct integration with cloud storage and the ability to export in custom coordinate systems. For drone mappers, centimetre-accurate ground control points collected with Flow and an Emlid Reach RS4 can dramatically improve map accuracy without needing a traditional survey crew.

Tips for Field Use

Keep your phone screen brightness manageable to conserve battery. Carry a portable charger for long survey days. Check your RTK fix status regularly and avoid collecting points under heavy tree canopy or near buildings, which can degrade accuracy. If you lose fix, wait for it to re-establish before collecting points. For more on how GPS positioning works in drone applications, see our GPS modules guide. Browse all Emlid receivers and surveying accessories in the GPS navigation systems collection.