Samsung Galaxy GPS Not Working in the US? Quick Fix

If your Samsung Galaxy GPS is not working properly in the United States, you’re not alone. Issues like inaccurate location, slow GPS lock, or apps failing to detect your position are common—but easy to fix. Follow these quick steps to restore accurate GPS performance on your device.

Step 1: Enable High Accuracy Mode

Go to Settings > Location and switch the mode to High Accuracy. This setting uses GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and mobile networks to provide the most precise location, especially helpful on U.S. carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile.

Step 2: Reset Location Services

If the GPS still struggles, open Settings > General Management > Reset and tap Reset Location Settings. This restores default GPS configs and fixes issues caused by system changes or outdated settings.

Step 3: Update Carrier and Software Settings

For users in the U.S., GPS accuracy can depend on carrier configurations. Go to Settings > Software Update and install any available updates. Also check Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks to ensure your device is using the correct network mode (5G/LTE).

Step 4: Calibrate the Compass

Open Google Maps, tap the blue location dot, and choose Calibrate. Move your phone in a figure-8 motion until accuracy improves. This helps fix incorrect direction or drifting navigation, especially in dense U.S. cities.

Step 5: Check GPS Permissions for Apps

Go to Settings > Apps, select the app that’s having trouble (Maps, Uber, Waze, etc.), and ensure Allow While Using App or Allow All the Time is enabled. Some apps require full access to function correctly.

Step 6: Clear Cache for Maps or Navigation Apps

Open Settings > Apps > Maps (or your GPS app) and tap Storage > Clear Cache. Corrupted map data can cause slow or inaccurate GPS performance, especially after long-term usage.

Step 7: Test GPS Outdoors

GPS issues often occur indoors. Step outside, wait 10–20 seconds, and check accuracy again. Tall buildings, parking garages, and metal roofs in U.S. cities can interfere with satellite signals.

For more Samsung Galaxy troubleshooting guides, visit the Samsung Hub.

Also explore Connectivity & Network and Performance & System for more ways to improve GPS, signal performance, and system stability.