How to Fix GPS Not Working on Android/iPhone — Full Guide

Is your phone struggling with location accuracy? Many users often ask why is my GPS not working, especially when navigation fails at critical times.

Whether you're navigating in the city or exploring the outdoors, unreliable GPS can be frustrating. This guide will walk you through the real reasons behind GPS issues and how modern smartphones — especially those with GNSS support — offer global, reliable positioning.

Part 1. Why Is My GPS Not Working? Common Reasons and How to Fix Them

Before diving into fixes, it’s essential to understand the typical causes behind GPS problems on Android or iPhone — along with simple steps you can try:

📱Poor Signal Environment

Tall buildings, tunnels, dense forests, or being indoors can block satellite signals.

Fix: Move to an open outdoor area with a clear view of the sky for better satellite reception.

📱Disabled Location Services

Your phone’s GPS might simply be turned off, or the app doesn’t have location permissions.

Fix: Check that Location Services are enabled in your phone settings, and that the specific app has permission to access your location.

📱Battery Saver or Airplane Mode Enabled

Power-saving modes often limit GNSS performance to preserve battery life.

Fix: Disable Battery Saver mode or Airplane Mode when using GPS navigation.

📱Hardware Malfunction

A damaged antenna, water exposure, or a drop can impair GPS functionality.

Fix: If suspected, try restarting your phone or consult a professional technician for hardware diagnosis.

📱Software Bugs or Outdated Apps

System glitches or outdated navigation apps may cause inaccurate location data.

Fix: Update your phone’s OS and navigation apps to the latest versions, or reinstall the app.

📱GNSS Signal Interference

Environmental factors like reflective surfaces or bad weather can weaken satellite signals.

Fix: Wait for better weather conditions or relocate to an area with fewer signal obstructions.

Part 2. Must-Know: Most Modern Phones Support GNSS

Many users still refer to all satellite positioning as "GPS", but here’s the reality:

📡 Modern smartphones support GNSS — Global Navigation Satellite Systems, not just GPS.

GNSS combines signals from multiple systems like:

• GPS (USA)
• GLONASS (Russia)
• BeiDou (China)
• Galileo (EU)

Your phone intelligently uses multiple satellite networks to improve positioning speed, accuracy, and stability. Most mid-range to high-end phones, especially those with dual-frequency GNSS support, offer excellent global performance—even in challenging environments.

However, despite this advanced technology, users may still experience GPS or location issues when facing the common problems mentioned earlier, such as poor signal or software glitches.

3. Understanding the Four Major Global Navigation Systems

Here’s a quick comparison of the Big Four:

Part 4. Does BeiDou or Other Systems Track Your Location?

Some users worry that using navigation systems like China's BeiDou or Russia's GLONASS could compromise privacy. Here’s the fact:

✅ Satellite systems only transmit signals—your phone receives those signals but does not send data back to the satellites.

✅ Your location privacy mainly depends on:

• The apps and permissions you grant
• Your device's operating system settings
• Your personal privacy preferences

⚠️ It’s apps or software misuse that can track your location—not the GNSS systems themselves. Regardless of which navigation system your phone supports, responsible use of privacy settings is essential for protecting your location data.

Do iPhones Support GNSS?

Yes, iPhones support GNSS and multiple satellite navigation systems. However, support varies based on region and device model:

✅ In the United States, iPhones support:

• GPS (USA)
• GLONASS (Russia)
• Galileo (European Union)
• QZSS (Japan)

✅ In China Mainland, newer iPhones also support:

• BeiDou (China's GNSS system)

Since the iPhone 12 series, Apple has officially added BeiDou support for devices sold in China Mainland. Models supporting BeiDou include:

• iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 series
• iPhone 14 series
• iPhone 15 series and later

For iPhones sold in other markets (such as the US or Europe), BeiDou support may vary or be limited, depending on regional hardware configurations and regulatory policies.

In short, modern iPhones combine multiple GNSS systems to deliver global positioning, with BeiDou support included on China-market devices to enhance location accuracy.

Panther2 Pro: Tough Phone with GNSS Support

Although most modern smartphones support GNSS and claim global positioning capabilities, the actual location accuracy still depends heavily on the phone's hardware quality, antenna design, software optimization, and overall durability.

In urban environments, minor signal fluctuations may go unnoticed. But for outdoor workers, travelers, hikers, or field professionals, reliable navigation is mission-critical. Factors like weak GNSS reception, inaccurate positioning, or fragile devices can quickly become serious risks in remote or harsh conditions.

That’s why outdoor enthusiasts and professionals need more than just basic GNSS support — they need a smartphone built for extreme environments, with stable, precise, and fast positioning performance.

We recommend the LAGENIO Panther2 Pro Rugged Smartphone:
✔️ Full GNSS coverage — Supports GPS (USA), GLONASS (Russia), BeiDou (China), Galileo (EU)
✔️ Outstanding signal reception, even in remote mountains, forests, or construction sites
✔️ Dual-frequency GNSS, delivering significantly improved precision and faster satellite lock-in
✔️ Tough yet slim body — Engineered to meet top-tier rugged standards (IP68/IP69K, drop and dust resistance)
✔️ Perfect for hiking, traveling, exploration, industrial work, or outdoor adventures
✔️ High performance at an affordable price — Exceptional value compared to mainstream rugged devices

With the Panther2 Pro, you can rely on stable, accurate positioning even in complex outdoor environments, helping you navigate with confidence wherever you go.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever wondered why is my GPS not working, the reasons are often linked to signal issues, software settings, or device limitations. While basic fixes can solve most problems, for those who often work or travel outdoors, having a phone with reliable GNSS support makes a real difference. A durable, well-designed device like the LAGENIO Panther2 Pro can help reduce positioning errors and improve navigation stability, even in challenging environments.