In this guide, we’ll show you how to calibrate the Google Maps compass for more accurate readings. We’ll also explore other tips for Android and iPhone, such as enabling high-accuracy mode for better results.
How to Calibrate Google Maps on Android
If you open Google Maps on Android and see the blue compass icon is pointing in the wrong direction, you can fix it pretty easily by calibrating the compass. For compass calibration on Android, use these steps:
How to Turn on High-Accuracy Mode for Google Maps on Android
Another way to ensure you’re getting better accuracy from Google Maps is by enabling high-accuracy mode. This feature is only available for Android users. To enable high-accuracy mode for Google Maps on Android:
Other Ways to Calibrate Google Maps on iPhone or Android
If you’re still seeing a poorly calibrated compass on your iPhone or iPad, you can try a few other tricks to fix the problem.
Enable Location Services on iPhone
You’ll need to enable and calibrate location services on your iPhone. These allow apps like Google Maps to access your location using your iPhone’s GPS and other location data. To allow access to your location on iPhone:
Enable WiFi Scanning Accuracy
Another way to improve your location data is to enable your WiFi radio. Keeping it turned on will help Google Maps scan nearby WiFi signals to better determine your location. In particular, some Android phones allow you to enable (or disable) this functionality to ensure a more accurate location. You’ll need to make sure this setting is enabled in your Settings menu. These steps are designed with Samsung devices in mind and may vary on other Android devices. To enable WiFi scanning accuracy on your Android device:
Using Google Maps Effectively
The steps above are just a few quick and simple ways to calibrate Google Maps on your Android or iPhone. If you’re still not getting the result you want, try rebooting your iPhone or Android handset to reset the GPS sensors on your device. Once you’ve calibrated your device, you can use GPS coordinates in Google Maps to find specific locations. Another cool trick is using your Google Maps timeline as a travel diary. It’s also worth noting that you can use the Google Maps sidebar in Google Calendar to help you if you’re planning to travel to a new location. Comment Name * Email *
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