Mobile Phones > Android How to Calibrate the Compass for Android Make sure you're facing the right direction before following the GPS By Scott Orgera Scott Orgera Facebook Twitter Writer Scott Orgera is a former Lifewire writer covering tech since 2007. He has 25+ years' experience as a programmer and QA leader, and holds several Microsoft certifications including MCSE, MCP+I, and MOUS. He is also A+ certified. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on May 20, 2022 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Android Switching from iOS What to Know First, check location accuracy: Open Google Maps > check for blue dot, or tap bullseye icon > calibrate.Next, hold device right-side up > move device in a figure-8 motion until beam narrows.If problems persist, make sure you have the newest version of Google Maps installed and restart your device. This article explains how to calibrate Google Maps on an Android device, so your location is always accurate. Check Your Location in Google Maps for Android Before calibrating your compass, make sure your location and direction are tracked correctly by your Android device. Open the Google Maps app on your smartphone or tablet. A map of the surrounding area should immediately appear, with a blue dot notating your exact location and direction. If a blue dot doesn't appear, tap Your Location, represented by a bullseye, and located in the lower-right corner of the screen directly above the GO icon. Maps may decide you need to calibrate the compass. It displays a screen with instructions to move the phone in a figure-eight motion. Do so, then tap Done. Calibrate Android GPS If the aforementioned blue dot doesn't signify your specific location, or if the beam accompanying the blue dot is broad, this means calibration may be necessary to fine-tune the smartphone's compass. Return to the Google Maps app. Hold the device right-side up, then move it in a figure-8 motion a few times. The calibration is complete when the beam becomes narrower and points in an accurate direction. Other Tips for Improving Google Maps Location Accuracy There are other ways you can improve the accuracy of the compass on your Android smartphone or tablet, such as connecting your device to a Wi-Fi network or restarting it. You should also check for updates to ensure you have the latest version of Google Maps. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit