Published on
Updated on 

Google Maps shows wrong current location: how to fix on Android and iOS

Authors

Google Maps is a popular navigation app used to help people get directions and find locations. However, sometimes Google Maps may show the wrong location on Android and iOS devices. This can be caused by a number of factors, including incorrect GPS settings, an outdated version of the app, poor line of sight to GPS satellites, and more.

Fortunately, there are a few simple steps that users can take to help fix the issue. By following these steps, users can ensure that Google Maps is able to accurately display their location.

Table of Contents

The main reasons why Google Maps shows the wrong location

  1. Incorrect Data on the Map: Google Maps gets its data from third-party sources like government organizations, public institutions, and private companies. If the data is outdated or inaccurate, it can lead to the wrong location being shown in the app.

  2. GPS Signal Interference: GPS signals can be interrupted by tall buildings, mountains, and even weather conditions like rain or fog. This can cause the location to be inaccurate.

  3. Outdated Software: If the Google Maps app on your device is not up to date, it may not be able to accurately pinpoint your location.

  4. Poor Network Connection: If your device is not connected to the internet, or if the connection is slow, it can cause Google Maps to display the wrong location.

  5. Incorrect Location Settings: If your device's location settings are incorrect, it can cause Google Maps to show the wrong location.

GPS signal interference

GPS signal interference can have a significant effect on the accuracy of Google Maps. GPS signals are necessary for Google Maps to accurately determine a user's location and provide them with directions. When GPS signals are interfered with, Google Maps may not be able to determine a user's exact location, and the routes and directions provided may not be accurate. This could lead to a user getting lost, arriving late, or missing their destination altogether.

Here are some steps to prevent GPS signal interference from affecting the accuracy of Google Maps:

  1. Avoid placing metal objects near your device. Metal objects, such as metal shelves and metal furniture, can block or reflect GPS signals and reduce their accuracy. If possible, move these objects away from your device.

  2. Turn off any Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connections on your device. These connections can interfere with GPS signals and reduce their accuracy.

  3. Make sure that the latest version of Google Maps is installed, as this can help improve GPS accuracy.

If any updates are available, the user will be prompted to install them.

Update Google Maps to improve the accuracy

In order to ensure that Google Maps is running at its most accurate, users should make sure that the device they are using to access the service is running the most up-to-date software. By keeping the device’s operating system and other software up-to-date, users can ensure that they are getting the most accurate information when using Google Maps.

Another way for users to keep their device’s software up-to-date is to set the device to automatically check for updates. This can usually be done in the settings menu of the device and will allow the device to check for any available updates on a regular basis.

Reset Google Maps app on an Android device

The best way to reset the Google Maps app on an Android device is to uninstall and then reinstall the app. This is a simple process that can be done in a few steps.

Resetting the Google Maps app on an Android device is a simple process. All you need to do is uninstall and then reinstall the app.

Step 1. First, open the Google Play Store app on your device.

Step 2. Search for “Google Maps” and select it from the search results. On the app page, select “Uninstall”.

Step 3. You will be prompted to confirm the uninstallation. Select “Ok”. The Google Maps app will be removed from your device.

Step 4. Next, open the Google Play Store app again and search for “Google Maps”.

Step 5. Select the app from the search results and select “Install”. You will be prompted to confirm the installation.

Step 6. Select “Ok”. The Google Maps app will be installed on your device.

Step 7. Once the installation is complete, open the app. You will be prompted to sign in to your Google account.

Step 8. Once you have signed in, the app will be reset to its default settings. You can now use the app as normal.

Fix Incorrect Location Settings

Incorrect location settings on Android can be a very frustrating issue. As a result, all applications related to GPS navigation such as Google Maps do not work correctly and display the wrong geolocation.

There are some steps you can take in order to fix this.

  1. Check Your Location Service Settings: The first thing you should do is check your location service settings. Make sure that the location services are turned on, and that the correct mode (High Accuracy, Device Only, Battery Saving, or Off) is selected. To do this, go to Settings > Location, and make sure that the toggle button is switched to the On position.

  2. Check GPS Settings: You should also check to make sure that your GPS settings are enabled. To do this, go to Settings > Location > Mode, and make sure that GPS is enabled.

  3. Check Wi-Fi Settings: Another possible cause of incorrect location settings is incorrect Wi-Fi settings. Go to Settings > Wi-Fi, and make sure that the Wi-Fi is turned on and that it is connected to the correct network.

Ilia is a professional writer. He has expert knowledge in GPS and cartography with 15 years of experience. Additionally, Ilia has extensive experience in data recovery on PC and mobile. He started his career as a journalist by reviewing PC and mobile apps. His current responsibilities are to keep track of users' questions on MGT and answer them.