In an era where personal privacy and data security are at the forefront of technology discussions, knowing how to control the information your devices are sharing is paramount. One of the most common ways for devices to share your location is through the use of GPS (Global Positioning System). But when and why might you want to turn it off? And how can you ensure you’re doing so effectively? This guide takes a deep-dive into disabling GPS on the most popular devices and provides context on why you might want to consider doing so.
Why Disable GPS on Your Device?
The primary benefit of disabling GPS is privacy. By turning off location tracking, you prevent apps and services from knowing your current whereabouts. Not only does this help avoid location-based advertisements, but it also limits the data profile that companies can build around your daily habits. Additionally, disabling GPS can extend the battery life of your device, as it’s no longer constantly using power to determine and report your location.
Battery Life
Smartphones are getting smarter but simultaneously more power-hungry. GPS, with its constantly active signal, is a notorious battery drainer. It’s estimated that GPS can consume up to 10% or more of a smartphone’s battery per hour when actively used. By turning it off when not needed, you can greatly extend your device’s operation between charges.
Data Privacy
Your location data can be far more revealing than you might think. From the stores you visit to the routes you take, this information can be used to build a detailed picture of your routine, likes, and even your home and workplace. Disabling GPS ensures that this sensitive information stays private unless you explicitly choose to share it.
The Risk of Always-On GPS
The major risk with having GPS constantly on is that a wide array of services and apps request access to this data. This not only results in privacy concerns but can also lead to security risks. Permission to your location is often bundled in with other permissions that apps ask for, potentially allowing for broader data access than you might intend.
App Permissions
When you install a new app, you tend to get an overwhelming number of permission requests. Location data is often among the first things they ask for, and it’s a permission that many users grant without a second thought. By disabling GPS, you force these apps to ask for permission explicitly when needed, helping you to scrutinize the apps that really need this information.
Security
Tracking your location also means that your daily movements and habits could be potentially monitored. This information can be a goldmine for cyber criminals, who can use your routine to predict when you’re not home and, by extension, when your property may be more vulnerable to theft.
How to Turn Off GPS on iOS Devices
For Apple users, turning off GPS is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to disable Location Services on iOS:
The Procedure
- Go to Settings.
- Privacy.
- Location Services.
- Switch off the toggle switch next to Location Services.
- To disable GPS on a per-app basis, keep Location Services on and select each app to choose whether they’re allowed to access your location.
By following these steps, you can quickly deny all apps from accessing your location and then selectively enable it for apps that you trust.
Turning Off GPS on Android Devices
Android users also have the option to turn off GPS or customize its use by app. Here’s how:
Step-by-Step Guidance
- Open your device’s Settings.
- Scroll down and tap Security & Location.
- Under the Privacy section, tap Location.
- Now, you can change your location settings:
-
- Use location services: Turn on or off.
- App access to location: Manage settings for individual apps.
- Advanced:
-
- Google Location Accuracy: Improve location accuracy and battery life.
- Wi-Fi scanning: Improve location accuracy even when GPS is off.
- Bluetooth scanning: Improve location accuracy for apps related to Bluetooth, even when Bluetooth is off.
- Location history: Control the location history that’s stored on your device.
By making these changes, you can ensure that your device location is not easily trackable by apps or services unless you give them permission to do so.
Disabling GPS on Other Devices
Beyond smartphones, many other personal devices contain GPS units. Smartwatches, tablets, and even some cameras can track your location. Here’s how to turn them off:
Wearables and Smart Devices
- Smartwatches: Typically, you can turn off location tracking (or set it to ‘ask for access’) through the accompanying mobile app or the watch’s settings.
- Tablets: The process is usually similar to that of smartphones; locate the GPS-related settings in your device’s Options or Settings menus.
- Cameras and Other Devices: GPS functions in cameras are often used to geotag photos. Refer to the user manual or the settings menu on your device to manage this.
Best Practices for Managing GPS on All Devices
To wrap up, here are some best practices for managing GPS across your devices:
Regularly Check Your Location Settings
Get into the habit of periodically reviewing which apps have access to your location data and turning off GPS for any that don’t need it.
Use Geolocation Responsibly
While there are clear benefits to geolocation services, always consider the implications for your privacy and data security. Avoid sharing your location on social media and other public platforms unless necessary.
Understand the Consequences
When you disable GPS, some functionality in specific apps may not work as intended. Make sure to understand what you’re sacrificing for your privacy and adjust app settings or services accordingly based on your needs.
Update Your Software
Security and privacy features are often updated in new software versions. To ensure you have the latest controls, keep your device’s software up-to-date.
By taking a proactive approach to GPS management, you can significantly reduce your digital footprint and enhance your privacy and security. Remember, control over your location data is ultimately in your hands, and it pays to exercise that control wisely.
