What might cause this?
Similar symptoms can have different causes across models and software versions. These are possibilities, not a diagnosis.
Possible causes
- High buildings or metallic vehicle glass may obstruct satellite signals.
- Location services or app permissions may be disabled.
- Power saving may restrict a background location app.
- Location accuracy and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth scanning may be off.
What can you try?
Try these safe, user-level checks in order; do not open the device. Menu labels may differ by version.
- 01
Step 1
While safely stationary, test outdoors with a clear sky and compare multiple location apps.
- 02
Step 2
Under Settings > Location, confirm location is on and the app has the needed permission.
- 03
Step 3
Review Improve Location Accuracy and relevant Wi-Fi/Bluetooth scanning settings.
- 04
Step 4
If background tracking fails, exclude the app from sleep lists and compare with power saving temporarily off.
- 05
Step 5
Compare outdoors without a potentially interfering case or vehicle holder.
How can you confirm the fix?
Verify position updates consistently in two apps in the same open area.
When should you contact service?
Seek Samsung diagnostics if all apps remain inaccurate outdoors.
⚠ Stop using a device if it overheats, shows liquid damage, smells burnt or has a swollen battery.
Will a repair cost money?
Settings, cables and user checks may require no repair. Hardware costs depend on the exact model, warranty and service diagnosis; no fixed price is promised.
Quick answers
Could these checks affect warranty?
Use only external checks recommended for end users by the manufacturer. Opening batteries, electronics or sealed parts can create safety and warranty risks.
What if the steps do not help?
Write down your model, software version and test results. Share those details with official support rather than repeating potentially unsafe actions.
How was this sourced?
Model coverage: Settings vary by Galaxy and Android version; do not handle the phone while driving.
This is an original summary of the manufacturer support document; use the official page for current, model-specific instructions.
Open official manufacturer document ↗Features and model coverage vary. Compare the source with your exact model.