FAQs
Go to "Settings" > "Location Data". Check that "Location information access" is on — the button must be blue. Go to "Settings" > "Location Data" > "App permission" — it may also be called “Location” depending on your device.
How do I reset my GPS on my phone? ›
The easiest and quickest way to solve your problem is to toggle the GPS so that it gets a chance to refresh itself. You can turn the GPS On or Off from the notifications shade of your phone. Pull down the notifications shade and look for the GPS icon. Switch it Off and wait for at least 5 seconds.
Why is phone GPS inaccurate? ›
GPS: Maps uses satellites to know your location up to around 20 meters. When you're inside buildings or underground, the GPS is sometimes inaccurate. Wi-Fi: The location of nearby Wi-Fi networks helps Maps know where you are. Cell tower: Your connection to mobile data can be accurate up to a few thousand meters.
How do I fix my inaccurate GPS? ›
On your Android phone or tablet, open the Settings app . Tap Location. At the top, switch location on. Tap Mode: High accuracy.
Why is my phone losing GPS signal? ›
There are many factors that can cause you to find that the GPS is not working properly when using your Samsung phone, or your GPS signal is always lost., such as your current location, GPS not working after Android update, the stability of the WiFi network, or a pending system update can all be the reason why the GPS ...
Why is my phone GPS not working properly? ›
Check that "Location information access" is on — the button must be blue. Go to "Settings" > "Location Data" > "App permission" — it may also be called “Location” depending on your device. Here, you'll see the location settings for your apps: "Never" — Denies access to your location.
How do I calibrate the GPS on my cell phone? ›
How to calibrate Google Maps on Android and iOS
- Open Google Maps and find your current location.
- Tap the blue dot and press Calibrate.
- Hold your camera up and scan your surroundings with Live View.
- (Android only) Choose the Use Compass option.
- (Android only) Spin your phone in a figure of eight motion.
What interferes with phone GPS? ›
Weather conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, or thick cloud cover, can attenuate GPS signals and reduce accuracy. Electronic interference: Electronic devices and structures, such as power lines, can generate electromagnetic interference that may disrupt GPS signals.
Why is my phone location inaccurate? ›
You have a poor cellular or Wi-Fi signal
Your location is estimated from sources like GPS satellites, the closest Wi-Fi networks, and nearby cell towers. If you don't have a strong signal, chances are you won't have an accurate location.
What is the most common cause of GPS location error? ›
Common causes include: Satellite signal blockage due to buildings, bridges, trees, etc. Indoor or underground use. Signals reflected off buildings or walls ("multipath")
If you are indoors, move outdoors to re-activate GPS. Avoiding obstacles like standing between walls or in poor weather conditions can be helpful to receive GPS signals. Re-activate GPS by turning off and on the Location icon in Quick Panel. And then, go to the app Maps to see if the current location is accurate.
How do I update my GPS accuracy? ›
Open the Settings app and choose Location. Depending on your version of Android, Location may be hidden under Biometrics and Security. In the Location menu, choose Improve Accuracy.
Why is my GPS tracker not accurate? ›
Signal problems: Factors such as tall buildings or trees can hinder GPS transmission and mess up the signals. Device quality is one of the crucial factors that affect GPS data. An unreliable and cheap GPS device can often provide inaccurate information.
Why are phone GPS so inaccurate? ›
The GPS satellite signals work best in line-of-sight situations where there are no obstructions between the satellite and the receiver. The signals from the GPS satellites are easily degraded by buildings, causing either no or inaccurate operation of GPS receivers.
How can I improve my phone GPS signal? ›
Use a GPS Signal Booster
Invest in a GPS signal booster to amplify the GPS signals received by your mobile device. These boosters enhance the GPS signal reception, especially in areas with weak mobile signals.
What affects phone GPS? ›
Several factors can affect the accuracy and reliability of GPS positioning on a cell phone. These factors include signal interference from buildings or natural obstacles, the number and positioning of available satellites, the quality of the GPS receiver, and atmospheric conditions.
How do I fix my GPS tracking? ›
There is always the option to restart your device and/or turn GPS on/off several times. This helps more often than not. The reboot helps the GPS system to recalibrate, which can lead to better signal reception.
Why is my phone showing the wrong location? ›
Turning on Google Location Accuracy allows Android to use GPS signals, Wi-Fi, mobile networks, and sensors to find your location. If your location is still inaccurate, you may consider turning on high-accuracy mode. Open the Settings app, and then select Location. After switching the location on, tap Mode.
How do I reset my location? ›
Android 12 & higher
- Swipe down from the top of the screen.
- Touch and hold Location . If you don't find Location : Tap Edit or Settings . Drag Location into your Quick Settings.
- Tap Location Services. Google Location Accuracy.
- Turn Improve Location Accuracy on or off.
Why is my GPS not working in my car? ›
If you have a GPS unit that is installed in your car's dashboard console, check to make sure the antenna is connected properly. If it is possible to move the antenna, try moving it to a different location that has a clear line of sight to the sky. Make sure the area you are in isn't obstructing the GPS signal.