How to Turn On GPS in 2025: Easy Guides for Android & Tracking Tips

In field service, GPS isn't just about directions. It helps managers track technicians, lets dispatchers assign jobs faster, and ensures that service teams get to the right place at the right time. None of this works if GPS isn’t turned on.

Whether you're setting up a new Android phone or guiding your crew through it, this blog will walk you through how to turn on GPS without getting stuck in tech-speak. Let’s make sure you’re set for 2025.

Modern phones are smart, but they still need GPS to figure out where you are. Apps can’t do much if the location is off.

From field service tools to real time tracking and time-stamped job entries, GPS powers much of your day. Android phones today are faster and more precise, which makes location-based tools more reliable, if GPS is on.

Most Android devices follow a similar setup when it comes to enabling GPS. You have two main options.

1. Swipe down from the top of the screen
2. Look for “Location” or “GPS”
3. Tap the icon, and it highlights when active.
4. That’s it. Your phone is now trackable by location-based apps.

1. Open Settings
2. Tap Location
3. Toggle Location ON
4. Tap Location Services
5. Enable Google Location Accuracy

Some phones let you choose between high accuracy and battery-saving modes. For field service use, high accuracy gives you the best results.

Once location is enabled, your phone can share its position with apps that have the right permission.

Turning on GPS alone won’t enable tracking; you still need to allow apps. Your phone won’t start showing your location until the app is allowed to use it.

Turning on GPS doesn’t mean apps will automatically know where you are. Each app still needs to ask for access, and unless you allow it, location features won’t work. It’s the step most people forget, especially if you're new to Android or setting up a phone.

1. Open a location-based app, such as Google Maps or the tool your work team uses
2. When the app asks to use your location, pick the option that allows access while using the app.
3. Inside the app, tap the round icon (usually a compass or target symbol) to center the screen on where you are
4. If everything is working, your position will show up on the map, and you’ll be able to use directions or check-ins as needed.

Some apps may remember your choice. Others will ask again. Either way, once this is set, you shouldn’t have to repeat it unless your settings get reset.

In field service, GPS tracking isn’t just a feature; it’s a necessity. It helps supervisors know where technicians are, keeps jobs moving, and reduces time lost to calls or check-ins at technician locations and schedules.

The good news? You don’t need a special setup to start using it. Android phones already have the basics built in, and many service apps come with tracking options that sync automatically.

• Let your team know when GPS tracking is active and why it’s used.
• Use reliable tools like Find My Device or job apps that include location features.
• Review app permissions once in a while to ensure only trusted tools can access your location.

GPS tracking can be helpful without being invasive. When used clearly and consistently, it supports better planning and accountability without crossing boundaries.

When you're working in the field or visiting multiple job sites in a day, your phone's GPS can be a key part of staying organized. It helps keep routes accurate, check-ins smooth, and your schedule running on time.

But to get the most out of it, your phone needs to be set up the right way.

• Open Quick Settings and tap the GPS or Location icon
• Head to Settings > Location and confirm it’s switched on
• Set the mode to High Accuracy for precise tracking.
• Keep your job or tracking app running while you work.
• Make sure Battery Saver isn’t limiting your location services.

Plenty of apps use GPS automatically in the background. If you’re managing a team, this setup makes it easier to stay updated without needing constant check-ins.

Working in areas with poor signal is common, especially in field jobs that take you to rural zones, new developments, or construction sites. The good news is, your phone’s GPS still works, even if your internet doesn’t.

The key is to prepare ahead of time so your maps are ready when you need them.

1. While connected to Wi-Fi, open Google Maps
2. Tap your profile photo and select Offline Maps.
3. Choose the area you’ll be working in and download it.
4. Before heading out, make sure your GPS is turned on.
5. Use the downloaded map to navigate without needing a signal.

This setup can be a lifesaver for remote teams. You won’t receive real-time traffic updates, but basic directions, landmarks, and location tracking will still function, including mobile apps that sync later when the signal returns.

From checking in at a job site to routing your day more efficiently, GPS plays a behind-the-scenes role that’s easy to overlook but hard to live without once you rely on it.

If your team uses scheduling tools or dispatch software, GPS can make a big difference in how smoothly things flow. For more on that, take a look at how location-based scheduling tools help service teams stay on track without the constant back and forth.

Knowing how to turn on GPS and making sure it's set up right just makes your day easier. Whether you’re leading a team or heading out solo, it’s a simple step that helps everything work better.