The Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro are the latest flagship smartphones from Google, offering cutting-edge features and a seamless user experience. However, some users have reported encountering GPS not working issues on their Pixel devices, which can be frustrating, especially when relying on GPS for navigation or other location-based activities. In this comprehensive troubleshooting guide, we will discuss the possible reasons behind the GPS not working issue on Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro devices and provide effective solutions to resolve the problem.
Reasons Why Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro GPS Not Working
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s explore the potential reasons why the GPS may not be working on your Google Pixel 8 or 8 Pro device. While there can be several factors contributing to this issue, the most common ones include poor signal strength, software glitches and conflicts, disabled location permission, misconfigured location settings, enabled power saving mode, outdated applications or software, and hardware problems such as a damaged GPS antenna.
Ways to Fix Pixel 8 and 8 Pro GPS Not Working Issue
To resolve the GPS not working issue on your Google Pixel 8 or 8 Pro, follow these step-by-step troubleshooting methods:
1. Toggle GPS Mode
The simplest solution is to toggle the GPS mode on your device. This can refresh the connection and resolve minor glitches. To do this:
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap Location.
- Toggle off Use location.
- Wait for a few seconds.
- Toggle on Use location again.
- Check if the GPS is working on your Pixel device.
2. Toggle Airplane Mode
Toggling the Airplane Mode can also help resolve GPS issues by resetting the GPS hardware and clearing temporary caches and data. Here’s how to do it:
- Access the control center on your Pixel device.
- Look for the Airplane Mode icon or option.
- Tap on it to enable Airplane Mode.
- Wait for a moment and then tap on it again to disable Airplane Mode.
- Check if the GPS is functioning properly.
3. Restart Your Pixel Phone
Restarting your device can resolve software conflicts and glitches that may be causing GPS issues. Here’s how to restart your Pixel 8 or 8 Pro:
- Press and hold the Power and Volume Down buttons simultaneously.
- When the Power Off menu appears, tap on Restart.
- Wait for your device to restart automatically.
4. Enable Location Accuracy
Make sure that location accuracy is enabled on your Pixel device to access GPS mode. Here’s how to enable location accuracy:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on Location.
- Ensure that the toggle next to Use location is enabled.
5. Configure Location Settings
Check and configure the location settings on your device to ensure they are correctly set up for GPS usage. Follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on Location.
- Enable the toggle next to Use location.
- Tap on App location permissions.
- Select Google and Google Maps app.
- Choose the “Allow all the time” option to enable the location service.
6. Disable Battery Saver Mode
If the battery saver mode is enabled on your Pixel device, it may interfere with GPS functionality. Disable battery saver mode with these steps:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on Battery > Battery Saver.
- Toggle off Use Battery Saver.
7. Clear App Cache Data (Google Maps)
Clearing the cache and data of the Google Maps app can help resolve GPS issues related to corrupted or damaged temporary caches. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on Apps > See all apps.
- Find and select the Maps app.
- Tap on Storage and cache.
- Tap on Clear cache > Clear storage.
- Confirm by tapping on the Delete button.
8. Update Google Map App
Ensure that you have the latest version of the Google Maps app installed on your Pixel device. Updating the app can fix bugs and glitches that may be affecting GPS functionality. Follow these steps to update the Google Maps app:
- Open the Google Play Store app.
- Search for Google Maps.
- If an update is available, tap on Update.
9. Update System Software
Keeping your Pixel device’s software up to date can resolve various issues, including GPS not working problems. Check for software updates with these steps:
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap on System.
- Tap on Software Update.
- Tap on Check for updates.
- If an update is available, tap on Download & Install.
- Restart your device after the update is finished.
10. Reset All Settings
Resetting all settings on your Pixel device can help resolve GPS issues caused by misconfigured settings. Here’s how to reset all settings:
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap on System.
- Tap on Reset options.
- Tap on Reset app preferences > Reset settings.
- Enter your lock screen’s PIN, password, or pattern.
- Finally, tap on Reset settings.
11. Factory Reset Your Phone
If none of the above methods work, you can try performing a factory reset. However, note that this will erase all data on your Pixel device, so make sure to back up your data beforehand. To factory reset your device:
- Open the Settings app.
- Scroll down and tap on System.
- Tap on Reset options.
- Tap on Erase all data (factory reset).
- Tap on Erase all data.
- Enter your phone’s password, PIN, or pattern.
- Finally, tap on Reset.
12. Contact Pixel Support
If you have tried all the methods above and the GPS issue persists, it is recommended to reach out to Google’s Pixel support team for further assistance. They can provide you with expert guidance and solutions to troubleshoot the problem. If your device is still under warranty, they may also assist with hardware repairs if necessary.
Final Words
We hope this comprehensive troubleshooting guide has helped you resolve the GPS not working issue on your Google Pixel 8 or 8 Pro device. By following the step-by-step methods outlined in this guide, you can address the problem and regain access to GPS functionality on your device. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please feel free to leave a comment below. Stay connected and enjoy your Google Pixel experience!