Android Kotlin Geocoder DEADLINE_EXCEEDED on Android when getting location coordinates/adresses

Android Kotlin Geocoder DEADLINE_EXCEEDED

The “DEADLINE_EXCEEDED” error in Android’s Geocoder is a frustrating problem encountered when trying to convert addresses to coordinates or vice-versa. It indicates that the Geocoder’s request has timed out, often due to network issues or heavy server load.

Understanding the Error

Causes

• Network connectivity issues: Poor or unstable internet connection can hinder the Geocoder’s ability to reach the Google servers.
• Server overload: High demand on Google’s Geocoding service can lead to delays and timeouts.
• Incorrect address format: Inaccurate or ambiguous addresses can make it challenging for the Geocoder to resolve the location.
• Geocoding limitations: The Geocoder has limits on the number of requests per second and the overall usage, which can cause timeouts if exceeded.

Troubleshooting Steps

Check Network Connectivity

Ensure a stable and reliable internet connection. Test your internet speed and connection strength to identify any potential issues.

Validate Address Format

Review the address you are providing to the Geocoder. Make sure it’s complete and accurately formatted, including street number, street name, city, state, and postal code.

Use a Backoff Strategy

Implement a retry mechanism with exponential backoff. This involves waiting for a longer period before attempting a new request after each timeout. For example:

var attempts = 0
var delay = 1000 // Initial delay in milliseconds
while (attempts < 5) {
    try {
        // Make the Geocoder request
        // ...
        break
    } catch (e: IOException) {
        if (e.message.contains("DEADLINE_EXCEEDED")) {
            attempts++
            delay *= 2 // Double the delay for each retry
            Thread.sleep(delay)
        } else {
            throw e
        }
    }
}

Reduce Request Frequency

If you are making frequent Geocoder requests, consider reducing the frequency to avoid exceeding the rate limits. Implement a caching mechanism to store previously resolved addresses and coordinates, minimizing unnecessary requests.

Use Alternatives

If the "DEADLINE_EXCEEDED" error persists, explore alternative solutions:

• OpenStreetMap Nominatim: A free and open-source service offering geocoding and reverse geocoding.
• Mapbox Geocoding API: A paid service with higher request limits and faster response times.

Example: Geocoding with Retry Mechanism

import android.location.Address
import android.location.Geocoder
import android.os.Bundle
import androidx.appcompat.app.AppCompatActivity
import java.io.IOException

class MainActivity : AppCompatActivity() {
    override fun onCreate(savedInstanceState: Bundle?) {
        super.onCreate(savedInstanceState)
        setContentView(R.layout.activity_main)

        val address = "1600 Amphitheatre Parkway, Mountain View, CA 94043, USA"
        val geocoder = Geocoder(this)
        val addresses: List
? = getCoordinates(address, geocoder)

        if (addresses != null && !addresses.isEmpty()) {
            val location = addresses[0]
            // Display the latitude and longitude
            println("Latitude: ${location.latitude}")
            println("Longitude: ${location.longitude}")
        } else {
            println("No matching address found")
        }
    }

    private fun getCoordinates(address: String, geocoder: Geocoder): List
? {
        var attempts = 0
        var delay = 1000 // Initial delay in milliseconds
        while (attempts < 5) {
            try {
                return geocoder.getFromLocationName(address, 1)
            } catch (e: IOException) {
                if (e.message.contains("DEADLINE_EXCEEDED")) {
                    attempts++
                    delay *= 2 // Double the delay for each retry
                    Thread.sleep(delay)
                } else {
                    throw e
                }
            }
        }
        return null
    }
}

Latitude: 37.422322
Longitude: -122.084079

Conclusion

The "DEADLINE_EXCEEDED" error in the Android Geocoder can be frustrating, but by understanding its causes and applying the troubleshooting steps outlined, you can effectively resolve the issue and get your geocoding operations working reliably.