I just received my Spark Controller today.  Did a firmware update, connected the controller to the spark (it was green) and attached my iPhone i7, no problems.  Went outside and had a very weak connection and only get a half a picture.  When I take the Spark outside with just my iPhone I have a great signal.  I think I am doing something incorrectly.  The battery was fully charged and the Spark was fully charged.  The iPhone was only at 25%.  Did I miss something?

I answered my own question, I think.  Weather is a factor and cloud cover appears to be the issue.