Yet, as powerful as it is, sometimes Google Maps will point you in the wrong direction or literally send you spinning around in circles. Fortunately, this isn't inevitable. Here, we explain why this happens, how to effectively fix it, and most importantly, how to get the most out of Google Maps on both Android and iOS.
Why Google Maps Can Lose Its North
Before trying to fix the problem, it's always helpful to understand the causes. Google Maps relies on several technologies to accurately locate you: GPS, Wi-Fi, mobile data, your phone's gyroscope, and magnetometer. When any of these elements aren't working properly or provide inaccurate data, your location can suffer.
Here are some common causes of poor location:
- You're surrounded by tall buildings (urban canyon effect) that block the GPS signal.
- You're in an underground parking lot or a closed building.
- GPS is turned off or in power-saving mode.
- Your phone's compass isn't calibrated.
- The mobile or Wi-Fi signal is too weak.
The Blue Dot: Your Mark on the Map
The famous blue dot you see on the map represents your current location. It actually contains more information than you might think:
First, there's a light blue circle around this point. This circle indicates the margin of error. The smaller it is, the more accurate your location. A large circle means your phone is having trouble determining your exact location. If the blue dot is grayed out, it means Google Maps can't locate you in real time and is displaying your last known position. In addition to the dot, you should see the famous directional beam: it shows your phone's orientation, i.e., the direction you're facing. The more open you are (outdoors, away from buildings), the more reliable the location.
How to Check Your Location Accuracy
When you open Google Maps and notice that the blue dot seems off or isn't following your movements, here's what you can do:
Tap the blue dot of your location. A new card should open with information about your location. If the message "Location Not Accurate" appears, it's a sign that the app is having trouble locating you. Here's how to calibrate:
For a few years now, Google has been using a feature called Live View, which allows you to use your phone's camera to improve location. Using this augmented reality technology, Google Maps analyzes the buildings and features around you to refine your position. After clicking on your location, tap the "Calibrate" button, then allow access to your phone's camera.
Follow the on-screen instructions: simply point your phone at buildings, signs, or other visual landmarks around you. In a few seconds, Google Maps will recalculate your location with greater accuracy.
This technology relies on visual recognition, so it works best in well-marked and lit urban environments that contain clear indicators, such as buildings or businesses. In the forest or countryside, the calibration feature will be less effective.
How to recalibrate your phone's compass
Even if your position is correct, sometimes the direction indicated by the blue dot beam is wrong. Are you walking west, but the map shows you're going south? It's probably the compass that's miscalibrated. Here's how to recalibrate it in a few simple steps:
Open Google Maps, then hold your phone in front of you and rotate it in a figure 8 in the air. Repeat this gesture about ten times, and you'll notice that the directional beam gradually becomes finer and better reflects your orientation. This movement may seem strange, but it helps realign the phone's magnetic sensors with the Earth's field.
Optimize your connectivity to avoid location issues
Sometimes the problem isn't with Google Maps itself, but with your smartphone's settings or connectivity. Here are some tips to follow:
Turn on mobile data and/or Wi-Fi, even if you're not connected to a network. These signals are used to triangulate your location. Of course, if airplane mode is on, turn it off to receive GPS signals. If you're in power-saving mode, the app may take longer to locate you. It's therefore recommended not to use this mode for optimal location tracking. If problems persist, try the classic trick of restarting your phone. Also, make sure your Google Maps app is always up to date.
If you're on Android, Google location accuracy can be improved by enabling "Google Location Accuracy" or "Google Location Services" in your device's settings. This allows Google to use different sources (GPS, Wi-Fi, cellular networks) for more precise location.
On iOS, you can enable a similar feature from Settings, under “Privacy and Security,” then “Location Services.” Select Google Maps, then enable Exact Location.
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