How to fix Spypoint Not working/ Trail Camera Issues

I’ve been using Spypoint cameras for a couple of years now, and I’ve run into my fair share of problems—and solutions. Currently, I run 12 Micro-LTEs (bundle packs from Academy Sports) and 2 Flex cameras (Costco deal).

This post isn’t about convincing anyone to use these cameras—there are plenty of other options out there. My goal is to help anyone struggling with Spypoint cameras by sharing real-world troubleshooting tips, replacement experiences, and some workarounds I’ve learned along the way.

1. Micro-LTE Camera Stopped Sending Photos — SD Card Issue

One of my Micro-LTE cameras, which had always worked flawlessly, suddenly stopped sending photos.

The good news: the camera was still taking pictures, and I could recover them.
The problem: when I loaded the SD card on my laptop, Windows gave me an error saying the contents were unrecognizable and needed formatting.

After some research, I discovered the SD card had two partitions—a 1GB drive and a 28GB drive. This can confuse the camera and the computer.

Solution — Reformatting to a Single Partition

Press Windows + R on your keyboard.
Type diskmgmt.msc and hit Enter.
In the Disk Management window, right-click every volume on the SD card and delete them.
Once there’s only unallocated space, do a long format (uncheck “Quick Format”) to create one single partition.

I had trouble completing the format using Windows tools, so you might need a third-party SD card formatter if Windows fails.

2. Micro-LTE Camera That Needed Replacement

Another camera stopped sending photos entirely. I tried all the basic troubleshooting steps listed on Spypoint’s website, but no luck.

Steps I Took Before Contacting Support:

Replaced batteries
Swapped the SD card with one from a working camera
Long formatted the SD card
Tried a firmware update

When I contacted Spypoint customer service via their chat box, I listed all the steps I’d already taken. This saved time and helped them approve a replacement faster.

3. Understanding the Two Main Communication Failures

If your camera won’t connect, figure out which issue you have:

The camera doesn’t show up in the app at all after scanning the QR code → I haven’t experienced this, but in that case, I’d recommend returning it to the store rather than dealing with customer service.
The camera shows in the app but doesn’t communicate/update once powered on → When turning the camera on for the first time, leave it alone for about an hour. Firmware updates often run silently, and interrupting them can cause failures.

4. Workaround for the Free 100-Photo Monthly Limit

For those using Spypoint’s free plan (100 pics per month), here’s a little hack:

In the Spypoint app, go to Camera Status and note down the Activation Code.
Once you’re near the 100-photo limit, delete that camera from the app.
Add it again like a new camera, and when prompted, enter the activation code you saved.
You’ll be reset to 0/100 photos.

Repeat for each camera, as long as you have their activation codes.

5. The End of the Road for Spypoint Cell Links

I used three Spypoint Cell Link devices for about four years, and they were excellent—until they all stopped sending photos around the same time.

After investigating, I found out that:

A firmware update for Cell Link has existed since 2020.
They’re no longer compatible with many new LTE and 5G towers.

I ended up switching to Spypoint Flex M cameras, and so far, I haven’t had a single problem.

Bottom line: If your Cell Link stops working, it’s likely due to outdated network compatibility. Sadly, there’s no fix until Spypoint releases a new update (if they ever do).

Final Thoughts

Spypoint cameras can be great tools—when they work. The key is knowing how to troubleshoot SD card issues, identify communication failures, and when to push for a replacement. If you’re on the free plan, there’s even a little trick to stretch your monthly photo limit.

That said, some older models like the Cell Link may not be worth fighting with anymore, given changing network technology.

Hopefully, these tips save you some time, frustration, and missed wildlife shots.