How to activate localization on Android?

27/03/2025

Location is now an indispensable feature of our Android smartphones. Whether it's to find an address on Google Maps, share your location with a loved one or use an application like Geoloc.be to locate a lost phone, knowing how to activate this option is crucial. However, some users may find it difficult to activate location on Android. Avoid frustration and follow this simple, clear guide to learn how to activate location on Android and solve common problems linked to this feature.

1. How do I activate localization on Android?

1.1 How do I activate localization on my Android device?

To understand how to activate localization on your Android smartphone, follow these steps:

Open your device's Settings.
Go to Localization or Privacy (depending on your model).
Activate the location button.
You can also select your preferred location mode:

High precision: combines GPS, Wi-Fi and mobile network for optimum location.
Power save mode: does not use GPS to save battery power.
Device only: uses GPS only.

These options are designed to meet your needs, depending on how you use your device. If you frequently use navigation applications such as Google Maps, opt for high precision for the most accurate results.

1.2 How do I activate localization using my Google Account?

Your Google Account can be used to activate location and access features such as "Locate my device". Here are the steps:

Log in to your Google account on your Android device.
Go to Settings, then click on Google.
Select "Localization" and enable the option if it is disabled.
Activate "Position history" to track your movements if necessary.
Activate the "Locate this device" option to easily locate your phone in the event of loss.

With these settings, you can not only enable location tracking, but also benefit from real-time traceability of your devices connected to your Google account. This can be very useful in the event of theft or loss.

1.3. Why can't I activate my localization?

If you have trouble activating your location, there may be several reasons:

Settings are locked: Some work or school devices have administrative restrictions that disable this function.
An update problem: Check that your Android system is up to date.
GPS failure: Make sure your GPS is working properly.

Also try resetting the network settings via the options available in your Settings. If these solutions don't work, restart your device or contact the application's technical support for personalized assistance.

See also: Locate an Android

2. Solutions to understand how to activate localization on Android

2.1. Why doesn't localization work?

Localization may not work properly for several reasons:

Connection problems: Make sure you are connected to a stable Wi-Fi or mobile network.
GPS signal obstruction: Buildings, tunnels or weather conditions can interfere with the GPS signal.
Incorrect location settings: Make sure that location mode is set to "High precision".
Application interference: Some applications may interfere with normal localization operation. Check permissions in Settings.

If the problem persists, temporarily deactivate localization, wait a few seconds and then reactivate it. You can also test the functionality using reliable third-party applications.

2.2 How do I unlock my location?

If your location is blocked, here are the solutions:

Restart your device to reset the settings.
Check that location permissions are enabled in Settings > Applications > Permissions.
Deactivate and reactivate localization in the main settings.
Reset the network settings if the above solutions do not work.
Use an application like Geoloc.be for fast, reliable localization.

These simple steps will enable you to unlock localization and access services requiring this feature.

2.3. Why has my GPS on my phone stopped working?

A GPS that no longer works may be due to:

Damaged GPS sensor: Have your device checked by a technician.
Conflicting applications: Remove or update applications likely to interfere with GPS.
Software failure: Reset network settings or perform a factory reset if necessary.
Low battery: When battery power is running low, GPS can be automatically deactivated to save energy.

Geoloc.be offers fast and effective solutions for locating a lost or stolen cell phone. If you don't understand how to activate localization on Android, we suggest you try our solution. With Geoloc.be, you can locate any make or model of smartphone, regardless of telephone operator, in just a few clicks, anywhere in the world.

How to activate localization on Android: what you need to know

Understanding how to enable location on Android is essential to taking full advantage of your smartphone's modern features. By following this guide, you'll now know how to enable location on Android, whether via your device settings or your Google account. We've also tackled common problems such as GPS failure or blocked locations, with clear and simple solutions. Geoloc.be remains an essential reference when it comes to locating a lost or stolen device, thanks to its high-performance, easy-to-use tools.

Don't wait any longer, explore our solutions today and master all the location features available on Android. Stay connected, stay safe!

How to activate localization on Android : FAQ

How do I activate live tracking?

Open an application that supports live location (such as WhatsApp), access the "Share my location" section and activate the option. You can specify a duration for sharing.

How do I activate location on Google Maps?

Open Google Maps, tap on your profile photo, then go to "Settings > Location > Location sharing" and activate the option. Make sure your location mode is set to "High precision".

How do I know if my location is activated?

Check in Settings under "Location". If the option is enabled, a GPS icon often appears in the notification bar. You can also check Google Maps to see if your location is visible.