NeoStumbler – Detailed Overview
Introduction
• NeoStumbler is a versatile mobile application designed to collect and analyze the locations of various wireless transmitting devices.
• These can include cell towers, Wi-Fi access points, and Bluetooth beacons that operate within the nearby range of a user’s device.
• The primary purpose of the app is to assist in mapping wireless network coverage, studying signal distribution, and improving geolocation databases used by compatible services.
Data Collection Modes
NeoStumbler offers two main modes of data collection, allowing users to choose between comprehensive scanning and low-power background gathering.
1. Active Scanning:
• Actively searches for nearby wireless sources using the device’s radio hardware.
• Provides highly detailed information, including signal strength, encryption type, frequency band, and unique identifiers.
• As it involves constant real-time scanning, it consumes more battery power.
• Suitable for field surveys or dedicated mapping sessions.
2. Passive Collection:
• Operates quietly in the background when enabled in the settings.
• Utilizes location data requested by other installed applications to identify wireless sources passively.
• Consumes less power and does not interrupt normal device operations.
• Only performed when explicitly permitted by the user to ensure privacy and control.
Data Usage and Export Options
• The collected records can be uploaded to any Ichnaea-compatible geolocation service, aiding in improving location accuracy for broader use.
• Users may export the gathered data into CSV or SQLite file formats for further offline processing.
• Common applications of exported data include:
+ Assessing wireless network density in specific regions.
+ Conducting research on connectivity or signal coverage.
+ Supporting community-based mapping projects.
Additional Features
• Interactive Map: Displays the geographical areas where data has been collected, helping users visualize coverage patterns and identify gaps.
• Statistics Page: Summarizes the number of discovered devices, trends over time, and progress of data collection activities.
Together, these tools make NeoStumbler both a practical analysis instrument and a valuable resource for network researchers and enthusiasts.
FAQ
Q: How does NeoStumbler gather wireless data?
A: The app detects and records signals from wireless sources within range of a user’s device. It uses the device’s radio hardware and location services to identify and log information such as signal strength, frequency, encryption types, and unique network identifiers.
Q: What are the two data collection modes available in NeoStumbler?
A: NeoStumbler offers Active Scanning and Passive Collection modes. Active Scanning performs direct, real-time searches for wireless sources, while Passive Collection quietly gathers data in the background using information requested by other apps.
Q: When should I use Active Scanning mode?
A: Active Scanning mode is ideal for fieldwork, detailed mapping sessions, or research studies that require precise and comprehensive data. However, because it performs continuous scanning, it uses more battery power than the passive mode.
Version History
v2.1.9——23 Oct 2025
NeoStumbler is a powerful app for mapping Wi-Fi, cell towers & Bluetooth coverage. Download the latest version of NeoStumbler to enjoy new features and updates immediately!
*2.1.9
• Duplicate cell towers are filtered from reports created through passive data collection
• Web links are opened through Custom Tabs
• When sending reports to BeaconDB, the age values are shifted by 45 seconds to handle BeaconDB not supporting negative values per Ichnaea spec
• Updated dependencies
• Updated translations
*2.1.8
• Added an option to disable using geocoder
• Fixed UI freezing when there's no geocoder available
• Fixed a possible crash in the passive location listener
• Updated translations
*2.1.7
• Added a list of third-party dependencies and their licenses to the About NeoStumbler dialog
• Updated dependencies
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