Google Maps is a great GPS app which can help you get your bearings quickly when you are in a new city.
All you have to do is enter the location or the name of the place you want to visit, activate your location services and Google Maps will find the best route for you.
If the app fails to update your location in real time as you navigate the city, it can be quite annoying and at times downright stressful.
Why isn't Google Maps updating my location?
If Google Maps fails to update your location, it could be due to poor or unstable internet connection, GPS issues, low battery or running an outdated app version.
Fix Bad Google Maps Location for Android
1. Update the Google Maps app
If you are running an outdated app version, some features may not be available or you may experience various performance issues.
This is why you need to make sure that Google Maps is up to date, especially if you've started having minor issues or the location isn't updating.
If you are using an Android phone, open the app Google Play Store. If you are on iOS, go to the App Store. Then search for Google Maps.
If there is a button Update profile Next to the app, tap it to install the latest version of Google Maps on your device.
2. Check your connection
Make sure your Wi-Fi or cellular data connection is stable. If you have connection issues, Google Maps will not load correctly.
Deactivate your Internet connection, restart your phone, then sign in again. Check to see if you notice any improvements in the accuracy of location services.
By the way, if you know you might be out of reach, download Google Maps offline ahead of time. This way, you will still be able to navigate to your destination even if you lose network coverage.
3. Calibrate the Google Maps settings
Go to your phone's settings and make sure the privacy settings allow Google Maps to use your current location and update it as you move.
-
- Go to Parameters → Policy
- Select Permission Manager
- Press Location to see which apps can use your location
- Allow Google Maps to use your location all the time and check if that fixes the problem.
Remember to set the location to high precision mode (if your phone model and operating system version include this option).
- On your Android device, go to Parameters
- Press Location and reactivate your location services
- Select the High precision mode
On some phone models, this option is under the Advanced settings option.
Select advanced settings and activate your device to improve positioning accuracy by allowing applications to search for Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices at any time, even if Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is turned off.
4. Delete the cache
Many location issues on Google Maps are caused by your cache. Removing it should fix the problem.
- Go to Parameters → Applications
- Select Cards and press Warehousing
- Push the button Clear cache and check if the problem is gone
- If it persists, also press the button. Erase data .
5. Reinstall the app
If you are still having problems with location on Google Maps, try uninstalling and reinstalling the app.
Open the Play Store app, search for Google Maps and press the button uninstall .
On iPhone, just press and hold the Google Maps app icon, then select the option Delete the app.
Then go back to the Play Store or the App Store and reinstall the app.
If reinstalling the app did not resolve your issue, you can use another GPS and navigation app such as Waze (if you drive), MAPS.ME, HereWeGo or other similar apps.