This article teaches you how to calibrate the compass of your iPhone or iPad and improve the accuracy of the Google Maps location service. If you are using Google Maps Live View, which allows you to use the camera to better orient yourself, there is an easy method to calibrate the compass specifically for this feature. While there is no specific calibration setting for the other Google Maps services, you can turn on "Compass Calibration" in your iPhone or iPad settings and enable Exact Location to make sure your phone or tablet always detects where you are..
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Enable Location Services and Exact Location
Step 1. Open Settings
of your iPhone or iPad.
You will see the gray gear icon on your home screen or app library.
- This method improves the accuracy of the location in all the features of Google Maps.
- It is technically possible to use Google Maps without enabling the location service, but the program will not be able to determine your current location.
Step 2. Scroll down and click on Privacy
You will find this entry at the bottom of the third group of settings.
Step 3. Click on Location Services
You will see this button at the top of the list.
If the "Location Services" switch at the top is disabled / white, press it to immediately activate this feature
Step 4. Scroll down and tap on Google Maps
The Location Services settings specific to that application will open.
Step 5. Select when to use Location Services on Google Maps
Press on All time if you intend to use the app to orient yourself, monitor traffic, receive updates on means of transport and learn about places to visit near you, otherwise select While using the app if you will only use Maps to find specific directions and places.
By selecting Ask next time you will need to make this decision the next time you start Google Maps.
Step 6. Activate "Exact Location"
You will see this button at the bottom of the screen. If it is green, Google Maps will be able to access your specific location while you are using the app.
Step 7. Connect to the Wi-Fi network if possible
In addition to GPS / compass, Google Maps can also use Wi-Fi and local cell towers to triangulate your location. For more accurate results, connect to the wireless network.
The cellular data network can also help improve the accuracy of your location, but it only offers accurate data up to a few thousand meters. You'll get better directions using GPS with Wi-Fi
Step 8. Open Google Maps on your iPhone or iPad
You will see the map icon with the name "Google Maps", usually on your home screen.
Step 9. Press the location icon to check the location accuracy
This is the compass needle pointing up at the bottom right of the screen. The map will be centered on your current location, which will appear as a blue dot surrounded by a white circle.
- You will notice a blue line starting from the point that represents you on the map. This line is directed in the direction your iPhone or iPad is facing.
- If the location of the blue dot is incorrect, the reason may be due to physical obstacles between you and cell towers (such as tall buildings or structures). You may also need to restart your device.
Method 2 of 3: Activate Compass Calibration
Step 1. Open Settings
of your iPhone or iPad.
You will see this gray gear icon on your home screen or app library.
This method allows you to keep the compass built into your iPhone or iPad calibrated. It is not limited to Google Maps; after activating this feature, your compass will be calibrated in all apps
Step 2. Scroll down and click on Privacy
You will see this entry at the bottom of the third group of settings.
Step 3. Click on Location Services
This is the first button in the list.
If the "Location Services" switch at the top is disabled / white, click on the feature to enable it
Step 4. Scroll down and tap on System Services
You will find this item at the bottom of the list.
Step 5. Move the "Compass Calibration" switch to On
This is the third button from the top. As long as the switch is activated, your iPhone or iPad's compass will be automatically calibrated.
Method 3 of 3: Calibrate the Compass in Live View
Step 1. Open Google Maps on your iPhone or iPad
You will see the map icon named "Google Maps"; usually, it is on the home screen.
- This method works only with Live View, a Google Maps feature that allows you to use the camera to get directions to a destination.
- If you haven't already enabled Exact Location tracking or turned on compass calibration, you should do so before continuing.
Step 2. Enter a destination or tap on a place on the map
This will set the selected location as your destination.
Step 3. Press the arrow icon
It looks like a paper airplane and is located on the right side of the map. Select it to orient the screen to show your current location and destination.
Step 4. Tap on your current location
It is represented by a blue circle surrounded by a white one. Select it to bring up a menu.
Step 5. Click on Calibrate with Live View
You will see this button at the bottom of the menu.
Step 6. Read the warning and click on Start
The notice advises you to pay attention to your surroundings and to comply with the law.
Step 7. Point the camera at buildings, signs and shops
Move it to cover as much space as possible. Once sufficient information is obtained, "Done!" Will appear. at the bottom of the screen and you will return to the map.
You will notice a blue line starting from the point that represents you on the map
Step 8. Press the Live View icon
This is the gray pin inside a box on the right side of the map. Once the new window opens, you will see an arrow pointing in the direction of the location you have selected. It should be very accurate now that you've calibrated Live View.
- If this is your first time using Live View, follow the onscreen instructions to authorize Maps to access the camera.
- If Maps can't find your location, you'll be prompted to point the camera again at buildings, shops, and signs. If the system doesn't work, move to another location and press up Try again to try a second time.
