• After 15+ years, we've made a big change: Android Forums is now Early Bird Club. Learn more here.

Location Settings Explained

D

Deleted User

Guest
Can anyone explain the difference between the first two options in the Location settings menu? Keep in mind I keep the GPS turned off.

Use wireless networks
See location in applications (such as Maps) using wireless networks

Location Setting
Allow network to detect your position



To me those two mean the same thing, but obviously they don't. If I turn the first one off, Google Maps (for example) cannot find my location. That makes sense.

But what about the second option. What would not work if I turn that off? So far I haven't found any difference in having the second one checked or unchecked.....

Thanks
 
One is to find location based on wireless networks, WIFI. (Very poor)

Second one is to find you based on your cell phone network. (Actually not bad, but not directional)

Third is to turn on the GPS chip. (Best but battery drainer)

It seems like I should only need the second one checked for Google Maps to work, but I need the first. Not trying to be difficult, but why does Google work with the very poor option turned on but not with the second option?
 
Upvote 0

BEST TECH IN 2023

We've been tracking upcoming products and ranking the best tech since 2007. Thanks for trusting our opinion: we get rewarded through affiliate links that earn us a commission and we invite you to learn more about us.

Smartphones