Does Airplane mode turn off the location?

People often ask, "Does airplane mode turn off the location?" No, it's not like that. It's a major misconception that switching airplane mode turns the location off. Turning on Airplane mode stops data sharing and wireless services. It does not impact location tracking. But how is this possible?

This article is a comprehensive guide about whether airplane mode affects the location.

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What is Airplane mode, and how does it work?

Airplane mode is a setting that temporarily cuts off the data, WiFi, and Bluetooth to make calls and texts. It also disables the internet communication via apps like WhatsApp. Airplane mode is enabled while flying to avoid interference in Airplane communication.

Usually, we switch to flight mode to fix network issues on our devices. In this mode, we can access pre-downloaded data, listen to music, and play games on our devices.

Does airplane mode turn off your location services?

Airplane mode doesn’t turn off your location services. However, it directly affects your device’s other functions. It pauses your internet connection and stops data sharing, as well as making and receiving calls and texts with other devices. If you want to hide your location, turn off your location service.

Does airplane mode affect GPS?

While travelling, turning on the flight mode disables radio signals, such as wireless connections. However, it doesn’t affect GPS, which contributes to location tracking. GPS works independently and does not link to your network connection.

GPS works with satellites without a Wi-Fi or data connection. It can pinpoint your location whether the flight mode is on or off. Airplane mode allows one to receive GPS signals but limits location sharing with others.

Does airplane mode affect location-sharing apps?

Airplane mode does not affect location-sharing apps. However, in flight mode, you can’t share your location without a data or WiFi connection. Your GPS will work, but location-sharing apps will be less effective.

Which apps don’t work on flight mode?

The social media apps that require the internet to work become less responsive in flight mode. These apps include:

Facebook
Snapchat
Whatsapp

You can’t share your updated location with these without an internet connection. Similarly, rider apps like Uber will not work without a connection. However, the navigation apps still work in airplane mode.

Can the location be tracked in airplane mode?

Yes, your location can be tracked on Android or iPhone devices in airplane mode. This is possible thanks to GPS. Whether the airplane mode is turned on or off doesn’t affect GPS functionality. GPS functionality is based on satellites, which have no direct connection with network services.

If you want to stop tracking your location, turn off your GPS. Now, switch to airplane mode to prevent your location access. If you disable location sharing on your device, it will limit your updated location access to your device apps.

How to disable location sharing on iPhone/Android?

Disabling location sharing on your Android or iPhone device is better for keeping your location private. Follow these steps to disable location sharing on your device.

For Android Devices:

Open your device Settings.
Scroll to Location or Privacy.
Move to Location Services.
Turn off the Use Location.
You can adjust the location permission for each app.

For iPhone Devices:

Go to your iPhone Settings.
Move to Privacy and Security.
Scroll to Location Services.
Switch off the Use Location button.

How to share a location after landing in the destination country?

When you land in your destination country, turn off airplane mode. Now, you can access cellular data and the Wi-Fi connection. If you are using an eSIM for travelling, it will automatically activate and connect to the supported network. You can enable your location from the device settings.

Go to your device Settings.
Move to Location or Location Services and turn it on.
Now, you can share your location with others.

Conclusion

Airplane mode doesn’t turn off your location. Your device’s location is not linked to airplane mode. Turning on airplane mode disables your device data sharing and internet connectivity. However, your location is based on GPS, and it doesn’t turn off in airplane mode. Your data can be tracked in airplane mode. However, if you want to avoid your location sharing, turn off the GPS and restrict location access to apps.

FAQs

Do offline maps work with airplane mode?

Yes, offline maps work with airplane mode. GPS works independently without any cellular data connection. Apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps allow you to access locations offline.

Does airplane mode disable Find Me?

Find My iPhone is a feature in iPhone devices that shares location details through cellular data or a WiFi connection. If airplane mode is on, your device can’t share your location even if GPS is working.