I know the app needs to be open for steps to count, but does the app need to be running in the foreground or can you switch do a different app and have pokemon go in the background?

You need it open and in the foreground, at least on my phone (iphone 5). Sucks!

e/ I've also found that if I'm on the items screen, pokemon screen etc. my steps won't count - needs further verification but if true it's fucking dumb...

This post was edited by GetOnYourKnees on Jul 20 2016 03:45am

As far as I know it it just has to be running

Really with that the main screen had a "distance traveled" counter somewhere on it.

feed it battery and take it out for a walk

My GPS isn't found often when I don't keep it opened and lit up. It's stupid but I try my best in order to hatch eggs.

Can you walk while fighting for it to count

this

or strap it to a ceiling fan